Who would have thought that a humble slice of pie could stir up such a fascinating slice of history? National Pie Day, celebrated every January 23rd, is not just a day for indulging in the flaky, sweet goodness of apple, cherry, or pumpkin pies; it's a day steeped in tradition and tales that mirror the rich tapestry of American culture. At the heart of this celebration are two intriguing origins: one, the brainchild of Charlie Papazian, a man passionate about pies and their cultural significance, and the other, a heartfelt tribute by a student named Shigeo "Shig" Sakurai to his mother and the warmth that pies bring during the chill of winter. Each story, while distinct, underscores the universal appeal of pies and their power to bring people together. Whether it's the warmth of a freshly baked pie filling the air or the shared joy of a family gathering, National Pie Day is a testament to the simple pleasures that form the fabric of our lives.
Key Takeaway
Day Activities
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Kick off National Pie Day with a slice of your favorite pie for breakfast! Yes, you heard that right. On this day, indulging in a piece of apple, cherry, or pumpkin pie isn't just acceptable; it's practically a tradition. Gather friends or family and make it a pie potluck morning. Who says you can't have dessert for breakfast?
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Midday calls for a pie-making contest. Roll up those sleeves and dive into the art of pie crafting. Whether you're a seasoned baker or trying your hand at it for the first time, there's joy in the process and even more in the tasting. Share recipes, tips, and maybe a laugh or two over a flour-dusted kitchen. May the best pie win!
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As the day winds down, host a pie-themed movie night. Classics like "American Pie" or heartwarming tales such as "Waitress" set the perfect backdrop for the evening. Cozy up with blankets, a slice (or two) of pie, and let these films remind you why pie isn't just food—it's a slice of life.
Interesting Facts
1. Charlie Papazian's Influence
In 1976, Charlie Papazian founded National Pie Day to celebrate pie and its cultural significance in America.
2. Einstein's Birthday Connection
January 23 was chosen for National Pie Day because it's Einstein's birthday, who was notably fond of pie.
3. Shigeo Sakurai's Unique Reason
Shigeo "Shig" Sakurai initiated Pie Day in 1961 to honor his mom and the year's shortest day for cozy pie enjoyment.
4. A Dual Origin Story
National Pie Day boasts two origins: one from an American Pie Council founder and another from a Stanford student's personal tribute.
5. Celebrating with Variety
This day encourages enjoying various pies, from apple to pumpkin, highlighting the dessert's joy and community spirit.
Why We Love This Day
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Celebrating American culture and tradition
Who doesn't love a slice of pie? National Pie Day is more than just an excuse to indulge in your favorite dessert; it's a nod to a deep-rooted American tradition. Pies have been a part of American culture for centuries, symbolizing home, comfort, and warmth. On January 23rd, folks across the country celebrate by baking or buying pies, sharing them with loved ones, and even participating in pie-eating contests. It's a sweet way to connect with a piece of American heritage and create new memories. -
A tribute to pie lovers everywhere
Let's face it, pie has a special place in many hearts, and National Pie Day is the perfect time to honor that. Whether you're a fan of the classic apple pie, the decadent chocolate pie, or the savory chicken pot pie, there's something for everyone. This day encourages people to experiment with new recipes or perfect old ones, making it a fantastic opportunity for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs to showcase their skills. Plus, it's a great excuse to gather friends and family for a pie-tasting party. -
Promoting warmth and joy during winter
In the midst of winter, National Pie Day brings warmth and joy to many. The celebration falls at a time when days are short and nights are long, offering a perfect reason to brighten up the cold season with a warm, delicious pie. Whether it's baking pies as a family activity, sharing them with neighbors, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a slice and a cup of tea, this day adds a bit of sweetness to the winter blues. It's a reminder that sometimes, it's the simple pleasures in life that bring the most happiness.
Past & Future Dates
| Month | Day | Year |
|---|---|---|
| JANUARY | 23 | 2022 |
| JANUARY | 23 | 2023 |
| JANUARY | 23 | 2024 |
| JANUARY | 23 | 2025 |
| JANUARY | 23 | 2026 |
| JANUARY | 23 | 2027 |
| JANUARY | 23 | 2028 |
FAQ
Why is January 23rd Pie Day?
It started in the mid-1970s by Boulder, Colorado, nuclear engineer, brewer, and teacher Charlie Papazian after he declared his own birthday, January 23, to be National Pie Day. Since 1986, National Pie Day is sponsored by the American Pie Council.
What national day is on January 23rd?
January 23rd is known as National Pie Day, a day dedicated to celebrating the crafting, baking, and enjoyment of pies.
Who is celebrating National Pie Day?
The American Pie Council registered the holiday in 1986 and began promoting National Pie Day celebrations, as well as other pie-centric events throughout the year. It's a holiday simply to celebrate pie, because pie so deserves to be celebrated!
Is today International Pie Day?
Pi Day is observed on March 14 (the 3rd month) since 3, 1, and 4 are the first three significant figures of π, and it was first celebrated in the United States. It was founded in 1988 by Larry Shaw, an employee of a science museum in San Francisco, the Exploratorium.