National Tootsie Roll Day, celebrated on February 23, is a tribute to the beloved chocolate-flavored candy that has delighted generations. This American favorite is celebrated in various fun ways, and we’re here to guide you through them on this special occasion. Did you know that these delightful confections were first crafted over 115 years ago, in Brooklyn, back in 1907? The day also commemorates the birth of Tootsie Roll’s inventor, Leo Hershfield, and highlights the popularity of this uniquely named treat across the country. Celebrations often involve indulging in Tootsie Rolls with friends and family.
Historical Journey of National Tootsie Roll Day
The story begins with Austrian-Jewish immigrant Leo Hirshfield, who started a candy shop in Brooklyn in 1896 and initially sold Bromangellon jelly powder. By 1907, Hirshfield had patented the Tootsie Roll candy, named fondly after his daughter Clara, nicknamed Tootsie. Instant success followed, and by 1908, Tootsie Rolls were being mass-marketed. In 1917, Hirshfield rebranded his venture as the Sweet Company of America. The company underwent further transformations in 1935 when it was acquired by Joseph Rubin and Sons from Brooklyn. They expanded the business significantly, including increasing the candy’s size, before moving the company’s base to New Jersey.
In 1943, the comic character Captain Tootsie was introduced by C.C. Beck, making appearances in Sunday newspapers and later in a comic book published by Toby Press. Fast forward to 1962, Ellen Rubin Gordon took charge of the enterprise, and by 1966, she renamed it Tootsie Rolls Industries. Ellen Rubin Gordon became the C.E.O. in 2015, leading a company that now produces about 64 million Tootsie Rolls daily. National Tootsie Roll Day honors this delightful treat enjoyed by millions each day.
Key Milestones:
- 1907: The birth of Tootsie Rolls in Leo Hirshfield’s candy shop.
- 1917: The business rebrands to Sweet Company of America.
- 1966: The Rubin family changes the name to Tootsie Rolls Industries.
- 2016: National Tootsie Roll Day is established to celebrate the candy.
FAQs About National Tootsie Roll Day
- How did Tootsie Rolls help soldiers?During the Korean War, American troops mistook these candy boxes for ammunition. Post-battle revelations found these boxes filled with Tootsie Rolls, which were not only a morale booster but also useful for patching leaks due to their chewy nature.
- Do Tootsie Rolls spoil?When stored properly, hard Tootsie Rolls and lollipops can last up to a year, while jellied candies can be good for up to nine months.
- Are Tootsie Rolls healthy?A Tootsie Roll contains 150 calories and 19 grams of sugar with no protein or fiber, making it not particularly healthy. However, enjoying one or two a day is harmless.
How to Celebrate National Tootsie Roll Day
- Indulge in Tootsie Rolls: Celebrate by savoring Tootsie Rolls and sharing them with those you love. Picking some up from a local store to share with friends, family, or neighbors can spread joy.
- Throw a Tootsie Roll Party: Host a celebration with a Tootsie Roll theme, featuring desserts as the main attraction. Award the best-dressed Tootsie Roll enthusiast at your gathering.
- Spread Generosity: Purchase some Tootsie Rolls to distribute to the homeless or visit a nearby senior home to share them with the eldest residents.
5 Mind-Blowing Facts About Tootsie Rolls
- Wartime Popularity: Included in U.S. army rations during WWII for their durability.
- The Indian Wrapper Myth: Rumors circulated that wrappers featuring an Indian with an arrow could be exchanged for Tootsie Rolls.
- Frank Sinatra’s Affection: The legendary musician Frank Sinatra was a fan.
- C.E.O. Cameo: Ellen Gordon, the current C.E.O., appeared in a 1950s ad at age 18.
- Flavor Variety: Initially offered in raspberry, orange, grape, cherry, and chocolate flavors.
Why National Tootsie Roll Day is Cherished
- Celebrating a Candy Icon: Recognizing Tootsie Rolls, one of America’s most adored candies, is a delightful experience.
- Building Sweet Bonds: It’s a perfect occasion to share candies, socialize, and strengthen relationships.
- A Slice of History: Seeing a Tootsie Roll connects us to a cherished part of our heritage, enjoyed by ancestors like our great-grandparents.
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What is the date of National Tootsie Roll Day every year?
Year of Event | Day | Day of the week | Take place |
National Tootsie Roll Day 2024 | Day 23 Month 2 Year 2024 | Friday | 0 days |
National Tootsie Roll Day 2025 | Day 23 Month 2 Year 2025 | Sunday | 0 days |
National Tootsie Roll Day 2026 | Day 23 Month 2 Year 2026 | Monday | 357 days |
National Tootsie Roll Day 2027 | Day 23 Month 2 Year 2027 | Tuesday | 722 days |
National Tootsie Roll Day 2028 | Day 23 Month 2 Year 2028 | Wednesday | 1087 days |
National Tootsie Roll Day 2029 | Day 23 Month 2 Year 2029 | Friday | 1453 days |
National Tootsie Roll Day 2030 | Day 23 Month 2 Year 2030 | Saturday | 1818 days |
National Tootsie Roll Day 2031 | Day 23 Month 2 Year 2031 | Sunday | 2183 days |
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