National Pie Day

National Pie Day is an annual celebration of pies that takes place in the United States on January 23. The day encourages the baking, cooking, and consumption of pies in a variety of flavors and forms. It is a day for pie lovers to celebrate the dish that has been a part of American culture for many years. National Pie Day should not be confused with Pi Day, which is celebrated on March 14 (3/14) in honor of the mathematical constant pi (π).

History

National Pie Day was created in the mid-1970s by Charlie Papazian, a Colorado teacher, who declared his own birthday, January 23, as National Pie Day. He felt that pies deserved their own day to be celebrated and enjoyed. The American Pie Council, an organization committed to preserving America's pie heritage and promoting America's love affair with pies, has sponsored National Pie Day since 1986. The day has grown in popularity, with various events and activities organized across the country to celebrate pies in all their forms.

Celebration

Celebrations of National Pie Day include baking and eating pies, pie-baking contests, and the sharing of pie recipes. Schools, bakeries, and restaurants may participate by making pies or holding pie-related events. Many people also celebrate by donating pies to those in need or hosting pie-tasting parties. The American Pie Council often hosts official events, including pie-eating and pie-baking competitions, to mark the occasion.

Types of Pies

Pies come in many varieties, including fruit pies, cream pies, savory pies, and more. Some popular flavors include apple pie, cherry pie, pumpkin pie, and pecan pie. Savory pies, such as chicken pot pie and shepherd's pie, are also enjoyed by many. The diversity of pies allows for a wide range of tastes and preferences to be celebrated on National Pie Day.

Significance

National Pie Day is more than just an excuse to indulge in a delicious dessert; it's a day that celebrates a dish that has been a part of American culture and history for centuries. Pies have been documented in the United States since the arrival of the first settlers, who brought their pie recipes with them from Europe. Over time, pies have become a symbol of home, comfort, and tradition for many Americans.

See Also

• Pi Day
• American Pie Council
• Desserts in the United States