NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Sour Candy Day

Join us in celebrating the delightful tanginess of sour candies on this special day.

JUL18
Sunday, July 18Every year on July 18
 days to go
Roots
Founded in 2015 by the American Licorice Company
Vibe
Playful and adventurous
Hashtag
#NationalSourCandyDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Rank your favorites

Buy five kinds, taste them all, and crown the sourest one.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a sour challenge

See who can keep a straight face through the sourest candy.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Share a candy bowl

Fill a bowl with sour treats for everyone to brave.

Plan ahead

National Sour Candy Day is observed on July 18 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, Jul 18this year
2027Sun, Jul 18
2028Tue, Jul 18
2029Wed, Jul 18
2030Thu, Jul 18
2031Fri, Jul 18
2032Sun, Jul 18
2033Mon, Jul 18
2034Tue, Jul 18
2035Wed, Jul 18
2036Fri, Jul 18

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Sour flavors are a favorite among many candy lovers
Sour candy makes up a growing segment of the candy market

The story

Sour candy has been a beloved treat in America since the 1980s, when brands like Sour Patch Kids and Warheads captured the hearts, and taste buds, of children and adults alike. This day celebrates the tangy, mouth-puckering flavors that make sour candy a unique category within the candy world. While sour candy's roots can be traced back to European confectionery traditions, it has evolved into a distinctly American experience, appealing to those who love an exhilarating taste.

Read the full story

Throughout the years, sour candy has taken on many forms, from chewy gummies to hard candies, and even sour-coated snacks. Popular brands such as Skittles, Sour Punch, and Toxic Waste have expanded the variety available, enticing sour candy aficionados with new and exciting flavors. This versatility is part of what makes sour candy so appealing, everyone can find a favorite that suits their taste preferences, whether they enjoy fruity, tart, or even spicy sour flavors.

Celebrating National Sour Candy Day is not just about indulging in these treats; it’s also an opportunity to connect with others who share this sweet passion. Candy lovers often host tasting parties, where they can sample a range of sour candies and share their thoughts and experiences. This communal aspect of candy enjoyment highlights the joy and nostalgia that sour candy brings, reminding many of childhood memories spent trading sweets with friends.

As we mark National Sour Candy Day, let’s not forget the international context of sour candies. Countries around the world have their own versions, from Germany’s sour gummy bears to Japan’s unique sour flavored hard candies. This day serves as a reminder that sour treats transcend borders, offering a universal experience of flavor exploration and enjoyment. So whether you prefer a classic sour candy or something more exotic, July 18 is the day to celebrate and savor the delightful tang of sourness.

Did you know?

01

Sour vs. Sweet

Sour candy often contains citric acid, which creates the tangy flavor.

02

Candy Chemistry

The sour taste can trigger a salivary response, enhancing flavor perception.

03

Global Preferences

Sour candy flavors vary by region, influenced by local tastes.

04

Cultural Significance

In some cultures, sour candies are believed to bring good luck.

05

Candy Innovations

New sour flavors are continuously developed to keep consumers intrigued.

06

Festivals

Sour candy festivals are held in various cities, celebrating this unique treat.

07

Sour Candy Day

It was founded by the American Licorice Company in 2015.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USNorth AmericaHome to many iconic sour candy brands and flavors.
  • DEEuropeGermany is famous for its sour gummy bears.
  • JPAsiaJapan offers unique sour candy experiences with diverse flavors.
  • BRSouth AmericaSour candies are gaining popularity, especially in Brazil.
  • AUAustraliaSour lollies are a favorite among Australian candy lovers.
  • GBUnited KingdomSour sweets are a traditional treat in British culture.

Keep the party going

See the calendar
FROM THE NATIONAL DAY CALENDAR STORE

Celebrate every day, all year

Official gear from the people who track 1,700+ celebrations.

Browse the shop
2027 Wall + Desk Calendar Bundle2027 Wall + Desk Calendar BundleCelebrate every day at home and at work.
Scroll to Top