national-cherry-popsicle-day-august-26

National Cherry Popsicle Day August 26

In the sweltering heat of summer, nothing hits the spot quite like a cherry popsicle. But have you ever paused to wonder how this icy treat came to have its own day of celebration on August 26? The story behind National Cherry Popsicle Day might be shrouded in mystery, lacking a well-documented origin, yet it undeniably marks a time to honor the refreshing, delicious flavor of cherry popsicles. Tracing back to the late 19th century, the invention of the popsicle itself is a tale of serendipity, involving a young boy named Frank Epperson and a cold night that led to the creation of a frozen sensation. Fast forward to the 1950s, and cherry emerges as a fan favorite among popsicle flavors, thanks to the innovations of the Popsicle Company. This day isn't just about indulging in a frosty treat; it's a nod to the rich history and simple joys that cherry popsicles bring to hot summer days.

Key Takeaway

National Cherry Popsicle Day is observed on August 26 each year to celebrate the refreshing and delicious cherry-flavored popsicles during the hot summer months.
The popsicle itself was accidentally invented by Frank Epperson in 1905, and cherry popsicles became popular in the 1950s, produced by the Popsicle Company (now Funko Candy).

Timeline

1922
Invention of the Popsicle
Frank Epperson, an 11-year-old boy, mixes soda powder and water, leaves it outside on his porch with a stirring stick in it. That night, the temperature in California reaches a record low, and the next morning Epperson discovers the drink has frozen to the stick, creating the first popsicle.
1923
Popsicle Business
Epperson begins selling his ‘Epsicle’ in a local park in Alameda, California. He later changes the name to ‘Popsicle’ based on his children’s suggestion.
1930
Popsicle Brands
The Popsicle Corporation is established, and several brands of popsicles are introduced, including the Cherry Popsicle.
1980
Unilever Acquisition
Unilever, a multinational consumer goods company, acquires the Popsicle brand, expanding its reach and popularity.
2019
National Cherry Popsicle Day
National Cherry Popsicle Day is celebrated annually on August 26, recognizing the popular cherry-flavored popsicle and its long history.

Day Activities

  1. Kick off National Cherry Popsicle Day with a bang by hosting a DIY popsicle making session. Gather friends or family, mix up some cherry juice, sugar, and maybe a hint of lemon for zest. Pour into molds, stick 'em in the freezer, and voila! You've got yourself a tasty, icy treat to beat the heat.

  2. For those feeling a bit adventurous, why not organize a cherry popsicle taste test? Hit up local grocery stores or ice cream shops for various brands and types of cherry popsicles. From gourmet to good ol' classic pops, rate them on flavor, cherry-ness, and that all-important ice-to-juice ratio. It's a sweet way to find your new favorite!

  3. Lastly, spread the cherry cheer by sharing popsicles with neighbors or co-workers. Nothing says "happy National Cherry Popsicle Day" like a surprise frozen treat on a hot afternoon. Plus, it's a fantastic icebreaker (pun intended) and a way to cool down, share smiles, and make someone's day a bit more delicious.

Interesting Facts

1. Invention by Accident

In 1905, a boy created the first popsicle after leaving a juice mix outside overnight.

2. Epsicle Becomes Popsicle

Frank Epperson patented his frozen treat in 1923, originally naming it the Epsicle.

3. Cherry Flavor Emergence

Cherry-flavored popsicles hit the market in the 1950s, quickly becoming a fan favorite.

4. Funko Candy's Role

Initially produced by the Popsicle Company, cherry popsicles are now under Funko Candy.

5. Celebrating Summer Treats

National Cherry Popsicle Day on August 26 honors this refreshing summer delight.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating Summer's Sweetness: National Cherry Popsicle Day is all about relishing the quintessential summer treat. On a sweltering day, nothing hits the spot quite like a cherry popsicle. Its icy sweetness offers a perfect escape from the heat, making us all nostalgic for those carefree summer days of childhood. This day serves as a reminder to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures in life, like the taste of cherry bursting in your mouth as you lick your way to coolness.

  • A Nod to Inventive Spirits: Frank Epperson's serendipitous invention of the popsicle back in 1905 is a testament to human creativity and the happy accidents that can lead to great discoveries. Celebrating National Cherry Popsicle Day is a way to honor not just the delicious treat itself but also the spirit of innovation and curiosity that brings such delights into our lives. It's a day that encourages us to appreciate the unexpected journeys that can lead to something wonderful, reminding us that sometimes, the best things in life come about by chance.

  • Cherry on Top of Flavor Evolution: Since the introduction of cherry-flavored popsicles in the 1950s, the evolution of popsicle flavors has been nothing short of remarkable. From the simple beginnings of ice and fruit juice to the gourmet and exotic flavors we find today, popsicles have come a long way. Celebrating this day is a nod to the journey of flavors and the joy of discovering new ones. It's a day for everyone, young and old, to indulge in their favorite flavor, be it the timeless cherry or something more adventurous, marking a moment of sweet, shared joy across generations.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
AUGUST 26 2022
AUGUST 26 2023
AUGUST 26 2024
AUGUST 26 2025
AUGUST 26 2026
AUGUST 26 2027
AUGUST 26 2028

FAQ

What day is National Popsicle Day?

Each summer on the 26th of August, Popsicle enthusiasts across the United States revel in celebrating National Cherry Popsicle Day.