NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Taffy Day

National Taffy Day is the kind of day that rewards a little intention and a lot of heart.

MAY23
Sunday, May 23Every year on May 23
 days to go
Roots
Late 19th century, Atlantic City, New Jersey
Vibe
Nostalgic and fun, perfect for all ages
Hashtag
#NationalTaffyDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Taffy Day.

  • Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
  • Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
  • Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
  • Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
  • Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.

Make it your kind of celebration

  • Family

    Do one small thing together that everyone will remember.

  • Kids

    Turn it into a craft, a story, or a snack — meet them where they are.

  • Couples

    Use the day as an excuse for a little intentional time together.

  • Office

    Acknowledge the day in the team chat or at a stand-up. Small, sincere, fast.

  • School

    Anchor a short lesson or activity around the day.

  • Community

    Share, volunteer, or donate to make the day mean something locally.

  • Just me

    Celebrate quietly and completely. One person can still mark a day.

Plan ahead

National Taffy Day is observed on May 23 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, May 23this year
2027Sun, May 23
2028Tue, May 23
2029Wed, May 23
2030Thu, May 23
2031Fri, May 23
2032Sun, May 23
2033Mon, May 23
2034Tue, May 23
2035Wed, May 23
2036Fri, May 23

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

The story

Taffy, a delightful confection that has captured the hearts of many, has a storied history dating back to the late 19th century. It is believed to have originated in Atlantic City, New Jersey, where it became a popular boardwalk treat. The process of making taffy involves boiling sugar, corn syrup, and butter, then stretching it until it becomes light and fluffy. This labor-intensive method is what gives taffy its unique chewy texture that so many adore.

Read the full story

On National Taffy Day, candy lovers across the nation celebrate by indulging in this sweet treat, often sampling various flavors ranging from classic vanilla to adventurous salted caramel and even spicy jalapeño. Taffy is not just a favorite at the beach, it's a staple at fairs, carnivals, and candy shops all over America. Each region has its own take on taffy, with local shops crafting special flavors that reflect their community's culture.

For many, taffy evokes fond memories of summer vacations and family outings. Children and adults alike enjoy the experience of selecting their favorite flavors from colorful jars and engaging in the playful process of chewing and pulling the sticky strands. Many families continue the tradition of making taffy at home, using recipes passed down through generations, creating moments filled with laughter and shared sweetness.

As we celebrate National Taffy Day, it’s also a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship behind this beloved treat. Whether you're visiting a local candy shop, making your own taffy, or exploring the history of this confection, take a moment to savor the nostalgia and joy that taffy brings. After all, it’s not just a candy; it’s a piece of Americana that continues to delight people of all ages.

Did you know?

01

The Taffy Pull

Taffy pulling is a traditional method to aerate the candy.

02

Saltwater Taffy

Saltwater taffy is a popular variation, despite no actual saltwater.

03

Taffy in Movies

Taffy has appeared in various films, often symbolizing nostalgia.

04

Annual Taffy Festivals

Several towns host taffy festivals, celebrating this sweet treat.

05

A Candy with a Twist

Taffy can be twisted into various shapes and forms.

06

Taffy as a Gift

Taffy is often given as a gift during holidays and celebrations.

07

Taffy Shops

Some shops have been in business for over a century.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesThe birthplace of taffy, especially popular on the East Coast.
  • AUAustraliaEnjoys its own version of taffy known as 'chewy lollies'.
  • GBUnited KingdomKnown for a variety of chewy candies similar to taffy.
  • CACanadaOffers unique local flavors within its candy shops.
  • HKHong KongFeatures taffy-like treats in vibrant street markets.
  • ITItalyKnown for its soft nougat, reminiscent of taffy.

Keep the party going

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