National Pizza Month

National Pizza Month is an annual observance that takes place in the United States during the month of October. It was first established by Gerry Durnell, the founder of Pizza Today magazine, in 1984. The purpose of National Pizza Month is to celebrate and appreciate pizza, a popular dish of Italian origin that has become a staple of American cuisine.

History

Gerry Durnell, a pizzeria owner in the small town of Santa Claus, Indiana, founded Pizza Today magazine in 1984. In the same year, he established National Pizza Month in the United States. Durnell chose October because the first issue of his magazine was published in that month. The observance has been celebrated annually ever since.

Observance

During National Pizza Month, pizza lovers across the United States celebrate the dish in various ways. Many pizzerias offer special deals and discounts. Some host pizza-making classes, while others hold pizza-eating contests. It is also common for people to experiment with different pizza toppings and recipes at home.

Impact

National Pizza Month has had a significant impact on the pizza industry in the United States. It has helped to increase sales and promote awareness of the diversity and versatility of pizza. The observance has also encouraged the exploration of different pizza styles, such as New York-style pizza, Chicago-style pizza, and Neapolitan pizza.

See also

• List of food months
• Pizza in the United States
• History of pizza