National Lollipop Day - July 20, 2024

History of National Lollipop Day

Candy sticks coated with honey or sugar have existed since antiquity, finding use in numerous societies. However, the evolution of contemporary lollipops can be traced back to the 17th century when a surge in sugar availability occurred in Europe. This led to the invention of a variety of sweets made from boiled sugar, which were conveniently placed on sticks for ease of consumption.

The term ‘lollipop’ was first formally documented in Britain in the 18th century, although at that point it was used to generally describe confections rather than the specific stick-based candies we associate with it today. During the 19th century, lollipops began to transform into the hard candy on a stick form we are familiar with.

The advent of industrialized lollipop production began in the US in the early 20th-century in New Haven, Connecticut by the Bradley Smith Company. In 1931, they legally protected the term ‘Lolly Pop’, although the term had already been in use. George Smith, the company’s owner, reportedly named the lollipop after his favored racehorse ‘Lolly Pop’.

However, during the Great Depression, he was unable to uphold the trademark which led to the term becoming widely used. Since then, the popularity of lollipops has seen a steady rise, with a multitude of shapes, sizes, and flavors introduced across the globe.

A notable instance is the Spanish brand Chupa Chups, established by Enric Bernat in 1958, which is recognized worldwide. Bernat introduced an innovation to the traditional lollipop design by incorporating a completely encased plastic stick that prevented the candy from dropping.

In the 20th century, lollipops have been promoted and made popular in various forms, from the iconic spiral-patterned lollipops to Tootsie Pops with their chocolate-filled center. Today, lollipops have infiltrated popular culture, symbolizing childhood or evoking nostalgia.