A yearly feast that comes every December 28th, National Chocolate Candy Day is a cherished tradition that pays tribute to the beloved confectionery, chocolate candy. Chocolate candy, in all its assorted forms, is enjoyed by people worldwide. Whether mixed with gooey caramel, filled with creamy peanut butter, or enveloping a scrumptious nougat, it holds a universal appeal.
On National Chocolate Candy Day, everyone is invited to relish the exquisite tastes of this versatile treat.
History of National Chocolate Candy Day
Tracing back the chronicles of chocolate, we find ourselves in ancient Mesoamerica, where civilizations like the Maya and the Aztecs used to create a harsh beverage prepared from cacao beans. When Spanish explorers returned to Europe in the 16th century, they took back this idea of a chocolate drink. But, the chocolate candy lovable by modern-day standards did not exist until the 19th century.
In 1847, the British chocolate firm J.S. Fry & Sons produced the first-ever solid chocolate bar suitable for eating. However, this bar was bitter, very much similar to the Mesoamerican beverages. The creation of the first milk chocolate happened in 1875, thanks to Swiss confectioner Daniel Peter who introduced condensed milk by Henri Nestle to the cacao, making the candy less harsh and more enjoyable.
The ongoing Industrial Revolution expedited more novel production methods which boosted the popularity of chocolate candy even further. Until the 20th century, major brands such as Hershey and Mars were established and were vending diverse forms of chocolate candies.
National Chocolate Candy Day, hence, celebrates not just the charming sweet treat but also the universal admiration for it. It is a day dedicated to appreciating and relishing the treat that has spread so much happiness to countless people. Despite the mystery of its history, people from all over the United States utilize this day to savor their much-loved chocolate candies.
National Chocolate Candy Day Timeline
Chocolate Discovery
The Olmec civilization in Mexico were probably the first to ferment, roast, and grind cacao beans into a paste
Chocolate Introduced to Europe
Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés introduced chocolate to Europe where it quickly became popular amongst the nobility.
Invention of Chocolate Candy
Joseph Fry discoved a way to mix some melted cacao butter into defatted cacao powder along with sugar to create a paste that could be moulded.
First Chocolate Box
Richard Cadbury created the first box of chocolates.
Chocolate Consumption Growth
Candy chocolate became increasingly popular and accessible to the masses.
National Chocolate Candy Day
On December 28th, chocolate candy gets a day to itself. It is celebrated by thousands of people across the nation.
Ideas to Celebrate National Chocolate Candy Day
Chocolatier Visit
Support your local chocolate store or chocolatier by purchasing different flavors to try. You can also arrange a tour or a chocolate tasting if they offer it.
Chocolate Candy Making Class
If you want to learn the craft, take a chocolate candy making class. Invite friends or family members to join you for a fun-filled activity.
Chocolate Candy Buffet
Create a chocolate candy buffet with all kinds of chocolate candies. Invite friends or family over for a chocolate candy tasting party.
Chocolate Candy Gift Giving
Surprise your loved ones or colleagues with a gift of chocolate candies to celebrate the day. Encourage them to do the same, and bask in the sweetness of giving and receiving.
Chocolate Candy Art
Arrange different types of chocolate candies to create edible art pieces. Have a competition with family or friends for the most creative design.
6 Interesting Facts About Chocolate Candy
Not Originally Sweet
When chocolate was first discovered in Central America around 1900 BC, it was consumed as a bitter beverage. Sugar was added much later when the treat made its way to Europe.
First Chocolate Bar
The world's first chocolate bar was made in England by Fry and Sons in 1847. They combined cocoa butter, sugar, and chocolate liquor and shaped it into a moldable paste.
Belgium's Chocolate Obsession
Belgium produces more than 173,000 tons of chocolate per year. The Brussels Airport is the world's largest chocolate selling point.
World’s Favorite Flavor
According to data from Nielsen, chocolate is the world’s favorite flavor, beating out others like vanilla and strawberry.
Cocoa Pods Are Colorful
Cocoa pods, which are the plant product from which chocolate is synthesized, come in a variety of colors including yellow, orange, red, purple, and green.
Swiss Chocolate Love
Switzerland is the country that consumes the most chocolate, consuming about 22 pounds per person per year.
National Chocolate Candy Day FAQs
Next National Chocolate Candy Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | December 28th | Thursday |
| 2024 | December 28th | Saturday |
| 2025 | December 28th | Sunday |
| 2026 | December 28th | Monday |
| 2027 | December 28th | Tuesday |
| What is the pattern? | Every December 28th | |
National Chocolate Candy Day Word Search
- Chocolate
- Candy
- Sweet
- Cocoa
- Caramel
- Sugary