NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Fruitcake Day

Celebrate this unique tradition with your loved ones, and discover a world of flavors that fruitcake offers.

DEC27

Sunday, December 27Every year on December 27

days to go

Roots: Ancient Rome
Vibe: A blend of nostalgia and holiday cheer
Hashtag: #NationalFruitcakeDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Taste a slice

Give fruitcake an honest try this year.

WITH FRIENDS

Bake it better

Try a modern fruitcake recipe with friends.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Gift a loaf

Wrap a homemade fruitcake for a coworker.

Plan ahead

National Fruitcake Day is observed on December 27 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sun, Dec 27this year

2027Mon, Dec 27

2028Wed, Dec 27

2029Thu, Dec 27

2030Fri, Dec 27

2031Sat, Dec 27

2032Mon, Dec 27

2033Tue, Dec 27

2034Wed, Dec 27

2035Thu, Dec 27

2036Sat, Dec 27

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

1913Mail-order fruitcake sales began in America in 1913

2007The Great Fruitcake Toss record is 1,420 feet, set in 2007

The story

Fruitcake has a storied past that dates back to ancient Rome, where one of the earliest known recipes mixed pomegranate seeds, pine nuts, and raisins into barley mash. This early version was not only a treat but a symbol of abundance and prosperity. As it spread across Europe, it evolved with regional ingredients, leading to the diverse fruitcakes we see today.

Read the full story

In the United States, mail-order fruitcake sales began in 1913, making it a popular holiday gift. Its dense texture and rich flavors made it a fitting choice for long-lasting treats during the cold months. Today, it is often regarded as a holiday staple, albeit with a reputation that sometimes leans towards the humorous.

Despite the mixed feelings surrounding fruitcake, it remains a beloved tradition for many families. From the classic recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations featuring gourmet ingredients, every fruitcake tells a unique story. This holiday season, consider trying a new fruitcake recipe to celebrate the day.

As National Fruitcake Day approaches, communities across the nation embrace this quirky dessert. Whether you love it or not, there’s no denying its place in holiday culture. With opportunities to bake, share, and enjoy, fruitcake day encourages everyone to partake in its quirky charm.

Did you know?

Fruitcake’s Global Reach

Fruitcake is enjoyed in various forms around the world, with each culture adding its own unique twist.

A Lasting Legacy

Some fruitcakes have been known to last for years, thanks to their high sugar and alcohol content.

Fruitcake in Pop Culture

Fruitcake has often been referenced in literature and film, often as a humorous object.

Unique Ingredients

Many modern fruitcakes incorporate unusual ingredients like chocolate and exotic fruits.

Fruitcake Festivals

Some towns host annual fruitcake festivals to celebrate this quirky dessert.

Celebrity Fruitcakes

Many celebrities have shared their favorite fruitcake recipes, contributing to its popularity.

Fruitcake Sales

Fruitcake sales peak during the holiday season, with many bakeries offering specialty versions.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesFruitcake holds a special place in American holiday traditions, often gifted and shared during festive gatherings.
GBUnited KingdomIn the UK, fruitcakes are often rich in flavor and traditionally served during weddings and Christmas.
DEGermanyGerman stollen, a type of fruitcake, is a popular holiday treat, filled with dried fruits and marzipan.
ITItalyPanettone, a sweet bread loaf with candied fruits, is Italy's answer to fruitcake, enjoyed during the festive season.
FRFranceFrance offers its own take on fruitcake with cake aux fruits confits, a rich cake often enjoyed during Christmas celebrations.
AUAustraliaIn Australia, fruitcake is a popular Christmas dessert, often enjoyed during summer barbecues.