Pizza Pie Day is celebrated on February 9, marking one of the many delectable food holidays in the United States. This day is dedicated to honoring pizza, a dish that holds a special place in the hearts of many Americans. Interestingly, a survey reveals that 36% of Americans enjoy pizza for breakfast! While historians trace pizza-like foods back to ancient Middle Eastern cultures, it was the Italians who truly refined and popularized this beloved dish. The love for pizza spread to the U.S. during World War II when soldiers, having developed a taste for it in Italy, returned home to find pizzerias opening up to satisfy their cravings.
The Origins of Pizza Pie Day
Although the exact creator of the pizza pie remains a mystery, historical sources suggest that early forms of flatbreads topped with various ingredients were consumed by ancient Egyptians, Romans, Greeks, and others around the Mediterranean. The modern pizza we know today originated in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century. Initially, pizza was a meal for the less fortunate, who relied on affordable food from street vendors. Peasants commonly enjoyed pizza at any meal, typically featuring flatbread adorned with toppings like anchovies, cheese, garlic, tomatoes, and oil. The renowned baker Raffaele Esposito from Naples is largely credited with popularizing the modern pizza recipe. In 1889, he created a special pie topped with tomato sauce, basil, and mozzarella to honor the visit of King Umberto I and Queen Margherita of Italy.
Before World War II, pizza was mainly a dish enjoyed by Italian immigrants in the U.S. However, during the war, Allied soldiers grew fond of the local Italian cuisine, especially pizza, leading to an overwhelming demand that local bakers struggled to meet. After the war, these veterans brought their newfound love for pizza back to America, significantly increasing its popularity. In 1905, Gennaro Lombardi opened Lombardi’s in New York City, recognized as North America’s first pizzeria, paving the way for a surge of pizzerias across the country in subsequent years.
Pizza Pie Day Timeline
- 997 A.D. – The word “pizza” is first documented in Gaeta, Southern Italy.
- 18th Century – Peasants in Naples enjoy pizza from street vendors.
- 1889 – Baker Raffaele Esposito creates a pie for Italian royalty.
- 1905 – Lombardi’s opens as North America’s first pizzeria.
Pizza Pie Day FAQs
Why February 9 is National Pizza Day
The reason behind choosing February 9 for National Pizza Day is unclear, similar to many food holidays in the U.S. However, this day undoubtedly celebrates one of America’s favorite dishes, tracing its roots back to 18th-century Naples.
Is Today National Pizza Party Day 2021?
National Pizza Party Day is celebrated every third Friday in May. It’s a perfect occasion to gather friends, neighbors, and colleagues for a pizza-filled celebration.
Who Came Up with National Pizza Day?
This event was created by Gerry Durnell in October 1984 when he was the publisher of “Pizza Today” magazine.
Ways to Celebrate Pizza Pie Day
- Visit Your Local Pizzeria: Celebrate by ordering from your favorite pizza spot or visiting in person. Many pizzerias offer special deals on this day, making it a great time to support local businesses. Don’t forget to give them a shout-out on social media!
- Host a Pizza Party: While enjoying pizza alone is fine, why not invite friends over for games and pizza sharing? It’s always more enjoyable with company!
- Make Your Own Pizza: Feeling adventurous? Try making your own pizza at home! There are countless recipes available online, especially on YouTube.
5 Fun Facts About Pizzas
- Annual Sales: Globally, five billion pizzas are sold each year, with over three billion sold in the U.S. alone.
- World’s First Pizzeria: Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba, opened in 1830 in Naples, is recognized as the world’s first pizzeria.
- Pizzerias in the U.S.: There are more than 61,000 pizzerias across the U.S., comprising about 17% of all restaurants.
- Most Popular Toppings: Pepperoni reigns as the favorite topping in the U.S. and U.K., while squid is a top choice in Japan.
- Top Pizza Days: The most popular days for pizza consumption include Super Bowl Sunday, Halloween, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and Thanksgiving Eve.
Why We Cherish Pizza Pie Day
- Celebration of a Beloved Food: Statistics show that Americans eat approximately 350 slices of pizza every second, highlighting pizza’s status as one of the nation’s favorites. Pizza Pie Day is a chance to recognize this beloved dish that has evolved from its humble origins in Naples, Italy.
- Honoring Pizza’s History: This day is not just about indulging in pizza; it’s also a celebration of its rich history, from its roots in the ancient Middle East to its rise in Italy and eventual popularity in the U.S.
- Support Local Businesses: Pizzerias play a crucial role in local economies. On Pizza Pie Day, many offer mouthwatering deals, making it the perfect opportunity to support them.
Pizza Pie Day Dates
- 2025: February 9 (Sunday)
- 2026: February 9 (Monday)
- 2027: February 9 (Tuesday)
- 2028: February 9 (Wednesday)
- 2029: February 9 (Friday)
Celebrate this day with a slice (or two) and enjoy the deliciousness that pizza brings! For more information, visit https://findnomore.net.
What is the date of Pizza Pie Day every year?
Year of Event | Day | Day of the week | Take place |
Pizza Pie Day 2023 | Day 9 Month 1 Year 2023 | Monday | 0 days |
Pizza Pie Day 2024 | Day 9 Month 1 Year 2024 | Tuesday | 0 days |
Pizza Pie Day 2025 | Day 9 Month 1 Year 2025 | Thursday | 20 days |
Pizza Pie Day 2026 | Day 9 Month 1 Year 2026 | Friday | 385 days |
Pizza Pie Day 2027 | Day 9 Month 1 Year 2027 | Saturday | 750 days |
Pizza Pie Day 2028 | Day 9 Month 1 Year 2028 | Sunday | 1115 days |
Pizza Pie Day 2029 | Day 9 Month 1 Year 2029 | Tuesday | 1481 days |
Pizza Pie Day 2030 | Day 9 Month 1 Year 2030 | Wednesday | 1846 days |