National Cherry Pie Day

National Cherry Pie Day is observed on February 20. This food holiday celebrates one of America’s most iconic desserts, characterized by its bright red fruit filling and flaky golden crust.

History of National Cherry Pie Day

The origins of National Cherry Pie Day are closely linked to the legends surrounding George Washington. While the story of the first president chopping down a cherry tree is a myth created by biographer Mason Locke Weems, the association between Washington and cherries has persisted for centuries. Because his birthday falls on February 22, the month of February became synonymous with cherry-themed celebrations and baked goods across the United States.

Cherry pie itself has roots in early English and European culinary traditions. European settlers brought cherry trees to North America, and by the 19th century, the dessert had become a staple in American households. The holiday gained formal recognition in 1987 when the mayor of Rockport, Indiana, issued a proclamation declaring February 20 as the official day to celebrate this specific pastry.

Why is National Cherry Pie Day important?

This day highlights the agricultural importance of the cherry industry in the United States. Most pies are made using tart cherries, such as the Montmorency variety, which are primarily grown in states like Michigan and Washington. By dedicating a day to the dessert, consumers are reminded of the seasonal cycles of orchards and the specialized labor required to harvest and process the fruit for year-round use.

The holiday also preserves traditional baking techniques that have been passed down through generations. Creating a successful cherry pie requires a precise balance of acidity from the fruit and sweetness from the sugar, often enhanced by a lattice-top crust. This pattern is not just decorative; it serves the functional purpose of allowing steam to escape, which prevents the filling from becoming too watery during the baking process.

• Cherry pie is consistently ranked among the top five most popular pies in the country.
• Tart cherries used in pies contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.
• The holiday encourages people to support local bakeries and fruit farmers during the winter months.
• Making a pie from scratch serves as a practical lesson in pastry arts and fruit preservation.
• Sharing a dessert promotes social interaction and community building through food.

How to Celebrate National Cherry Pie Day

The most direct way to celebrate is by baking a homemade pie using fresh, frozen, or canned tart cherries. Adding a small amount of almond extract or cinnamon to the filling can deepen the flavor and provide a professional touch to the final product. If you are short on time, purchasing a slice from a local bakery is an excellent way to participate while supporting small businesses in your community.

For those who want to experiment, the day is an opportunity to try cherry-themed variations like hand pies, turnovers, or even savory cherry glazes for meats. Hosting a small tasting event where friends bring different types of cherry desserts allows everyone to compare crust textures and filling styles. You can also share photos of your creations on social media using the holiday hashtag to join a nationwide community of dessert enthusiasts.

• Visit a local pie shop to try a slice of their signature cherry recipe.
• Use a lattice cutter to create a classic woven pattern on your pie crust.
• Serve your warm pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a traditional pairing.
• Gift a mini cherry pie to a neighbor or colleague to share the holiday spirit.
• Look for unique cherry pie-inspired items like scented candles or fruit-infused teas.

National Cherry Pie Day Dates Table