National Great American Pot Pie Day

National Great American Pot Pie Day is celebrated annually on September 23. In 2026, this date falls on a Wednesday. This unofficial holiday honors a classic American comfort food that combines a savory filling of meat and vegetables under a flaky pie crust. Pot pies can be baked in the oven or cooked on the stovetop, and they work equally well as a main dish or a side dish. The day encourages people to enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends, celebrating the warmth and satisfaction that a well-made pot pie brings to the table.

History of National Great American Pot Pie Day

National Great American Pot Pie Day was founded in 2002 by Marie Callender's, the well-known restaurant and frozen food brand. The company established the holiday to celebrate one of its signature products and to encourage Americans to rediscover the comfort of a homemade-style pot pie. Since its creation, the day has been observed annually on September 23, growing in recognition as a fun food holiday that highlights a dish with deep roots in American culinary tradition.

The pot pie itself has a longer history, evolving from medieval English meat pies that were brought to North America by early colonists. Over time, American cooks adapted the recipe, using local ingredients and developing the distinct top crust that characterizes the modern pot pie. Marie Callender's chose to focus on the "Great American" aspect of the dish, emphasizing its place in American food culture and its role as a convenient, satisfying meal for busy families.

Why is National Great American Pot Pie Day important?

This holiday celebrates a dish that represents comfort and practicality in American cooking. Pot pies are versatile, allowing cooks to use leftover meats and seasonal vegetables, which reduces food waste and makes them an economical choice. The day also highlights the skill of making a good pie crust, a technique that many home cooks take pride in mastering.

National Great American Pot Pie Day brings people together around a shared meal. Whether enjoyed at a family dinner, a potluck, or a casual gathering with friends, pot pies have a way of creating a cozy atmosphere. The holiday also supports local bakeries and restaurants that serve pot pies, encouraging people to explore different variations of this classic dish.

• Pot pies are a complete meal in one dish, combining protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates.
• The holiday promotes home cooking and the use of fresh, wholesome ingredients.
• It celebrates a food that is deeply associated with American comfort and nostalgia.
• The day encourages creativity in the kitchen, as pot pies can be customized with different fillings.
• It provides an opportunity to support local businesses that specialize in baked goods.

How to Celebrate National Great American Pot Pie Day

One of the best ways to celebrate is by making a pot pie from scratch at home. Choose your favorite meat—chicken, beef, or turkey—and combine it with vegetables like carrots, peas, and potatoes. Prepare a simple pie crust or use a store-bought one for convenience. Bake until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling, then serve it hot with a side salad or roasted vegetables.

Another option is to visit a local restaurant or bakery that serves pot pies. Many diners and comfort food spots offer their own versions, from classic chicken pot pie to creative twists like seafood or vegetarian options. You can also host a pot pie potluck, where each guest brings a different type of pot pie to share. This is a fun way to taste multiple variations and discover new recipes.

• Try a new pot pie recipe, such as a shepherd's pie or a hand pie variation.
• Share your pot pie creations on social media using the holiday's name.
• Teach a friend or family member how to make a pot pie from scratch.
• Visit a farmers market to buy fresh ingredients for your pot pie.
• Donate pot pies to a local food bank or shelter to share comfort with others.

National Great American Pot Pie Day Dates