National Pizza Day – February 9

Pizza’s roots are believed to trace back to ancient civilizations, where flatbreads were topped with various ingredients. However, the pizza we recognize today has its origins in Naples, Italy, in the late 18th century. Initially, it was a simple dish consumed by the working class. The classic pizza Margherita, topped with tomato, mozzarella, and basil, was created in the late 1800s and named after Queen Margherita of Savoy.

Pizza’s rise to global popularity can largely be attributed to Italian immigrants who brought the dish with them to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. By the 1940s, pizza had gained immense popularity across the U.S., with the emergence of pizzerias and chains that made it accessible to the masses.

While the precise origin of National Pizza Day is unknown, it is believed to have been established as a fun, unofficial food holiday in the U.S. in the late 20th century. As pizza became a staple meal in American households and dining culture, National Pizza Day grew in popularity as a way to recognize pizza’s cultural impact and give fans a reason to indulge in their favorite food.

The celebration has since become more organized, with pizza restaurants, pizzerias, and chains offering special deals, discounts, and promotions on February 9th. The holiday is now embraced by pizza enthusiasts worldwide, with social media sharing pizza moments and showcasing unique pizza creations.