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National Cheese Pizza Day September 5

National Cheese Pizza Day rolls around every September 5, igniting taste buds and sparking celebrations for one of the simplest yet most adored dishes on the planet. But have you ever paused to ponder how this humble pie, with its golden, bubbly cheese atop a crispy crust, became an international sensation? Originating in the bustling streets of New Haven, Connecticut, cheese pizza carved its niche in the early 20th century, transforming from an immigrant's comfort food to a global phenomenon. While pizza's roots stretch back to ancient civilizations, it was the Neapolitan touch that gave us the modern pizza. Yet, it wasn't until cheese met dough in the United States that the cheese pizza as we know it was born. From Lombardi's historic 1905 mozzarella masterpiece to Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana setting the standard in New Haven, this dish's journey is as rich and layered as its toppings. As soldiers returned from WWII with a craving for the authentic Italian flavors they'd sampled abroad, cheese pizza's popularity exploded, cementing its place in American culture and kitchens worldwide.

Key Takeaway

National Cheese Pizza Day is celebrated on September 5th to honor the popularity of cheese pizza, which originated in the United States, specifically in New Haven, Connecticut, in the early 20th century.
Cheese pizza gained popularity in the US after Italian immigrants brought their pizza-making traditions, and it became even more popular after World War II when soldiers returned with a taste for authentic Italian food. Today, cheese pizza is enjoyed worldwide and is a staple in American culture.

Timeline

1889
Invention of Pizza Margherita
The pizza Margherita is invented in Naples, Italy, by pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito. This pizza, topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy.
1905
Pizzerias in the United States
Gennaro Lombardi opens the first licensed pizzeria in the United States, Lombardi’s, in New York City.
1934
First Frozen Pizza
Rocco’s Pizza in Trenton, New Jersey, introduces the first frozen pizza, which would later become a popular convenience food in the United States.
1957
Birth of Cheese Pizza
The first recorded mention of a cheese-only pizza was in an article in The American Magazine, published in October 1957. The article describes a pizza with only cheese as a topping, which was popular among children.
1987
National Cheese Pizza Day
The first National Cheese Pizza Day is celebrated in the United States on September 5.

Day Activities

1. Pizza Making Workshop: Roll up your sleeves because it's time to get your hands doughy! Participate in a pizza-making workshop where you'll learn the art of crafting the perfect cheese pizza. From kneading the dough to spreading the sauce and sprinkling just the right amount of cheese, you'll become a pizza pro in no time. Plus, you get to devour your creation, making this activity a delicious learning experience.

2. Cheese Pizza Tasting Tour: Embark on a mouth-watering journey through your city's best pizzerias. Each stop offers a unique take on the classic cheese pizza, allowing you to savor different crusts, cheese blends, and baking techniques. Don't forget to rate each slice; by the end, you'll have crowned your town's cheese pizza champion.

3. Pizza-Themed Movie Night: After a day filled with cheesy adventures, unwind with a pizza-themed movie night. Classics like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles or Mystic Pizza set the perfect tone. Make sure to have plenty of cheese pizza on hand because nothing beats watching a movie with a slice in hand. It's the ideal way to cap off National Cheese Pizza Day.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating simplicity and tradition
    Who doesn't love the classic taste of cheese pizza? It's all about savoring that gooey, melty cheese atop a perfect crust. On September 5, we get to honor this simple yet delicious dish that has won hearts worldwide. It's a nod to the tradition that started in the bustling streets of New Haven, Connecticut, and spread like wildfire. This day reminds us that sometimes, less is more, and in the case of cheese pizza, it's just right.

  • A slice of history
    Diving into the origins of cheese pizza is like taking a trip back in time. From its humble beginnings in Naples, Italy, to becoming an American staple in New York City and New Haven, the journey of cheese pizza is a fascinating tale. Celebrating National Cheese Pizza Day isn't just about biting into a slice; it's about appreciating the rich history and cultural exchange that brought this dish to our tables. It's a story of how a simple dish can cross oceans and generations, becoming a beloved meal for many.

  • Uniting pizza lovers
    Let's face it, pizza has a special way of bringing people together, and cheese pizza is no exception. On National Cheese Pizza Day, everyone has an excuse to gather around the table, share stories, and enjoy a slice (or two) of cheesy goodness. It's a day that transcends personal taste preferences, uniting thin crust and thick crust fans alike in their love for pizza. So, on September 5, let's raise a slice to the dish that has become a symbol of togetherness and celebration in cultures around the globe.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
SEPTEMBER 5 2022
SEPTEMBER 5 2023
SEPTEMBER 5 2024
SEPTEMBER 5 2025
SEPTEMBER 5 2026
SEPTEMBER 5 2027
SEPTEMBER 5 2028

FAQ

Is September 5th National Pizza Day?

On September 5th, National Cheese Pizza Day says, "Hold the toppings!" That's right, cheese is all you need when celebrating this pizza holiday. Whether the pie is homemade or ordered in, make it cheese only.

Why is National Cheese Pizza Day celebrated?

National Cheese Pizza Day is celebrated to honor and appreciate one of the most beloved and iconic pizza varieties — the classic cheese pizza.

What national day is September 5th?

It's National Cheese Pizza Day, International Day of Charity, National Be Late for Something Day, World Samosa Day, National Child Protection Week… and much more!

What is today's national pizza day?

NATIONAL PIZZA DAY – February 9 – National Day Calendar.