Annual observance

National Animal Crackers Day

April 18 Food / Dessert Updated 2025-12-17

This holiday is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with emoji-style visuals, reminders, and daily fun facts.

Overview

National Animal Crackers Day, observed annually on April 18th, celebrates the iconic, animal-shaped cookies that have been a beloved snack for generations. It's a day to appreciate these crunchy, sweet treats, often associated with childhood memories and their distinctive circus-themed packaging, whether enjoyed on their own or with a glass of milk.

Observed each year on April 18, National Animal Crackers Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Animal Crackers Day on April 18 celebrates the nostalgic charm of these iconic cookies, which have delighted snackers since their introduction in 1902. This holiday highlights the joy and whimsy of childhood memories associated with the crunchy treats and their playful circus-themed packaging.

Origin and story

Animal crackers were first introduced by the National Biscuit Company (later Nabisco) in 1902.

The crackers were originally named "Barnum's Animals Crackers," paying homage to the Barnum and Bailey Circus.

Quick facts

  • DateApril 18
  • TypeFood / Dessert
  • Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Bring National Animal Crackers Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.
  • Post a story with #national-animal-crackers-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.
  • Share one fast fact about National Animal Crackers Day: Animal crackers were first introduced by the National Biscuit Company (later Nabisco) in 1902.
  • Write a note or journal entry on why National Animal Crackers Day matters, then set a reminder for next year.
  • Try a playful twist: cover non-traditional foods in chocolate or sauces inspired by National Animal Crackers Day.

Fun facts

  • Animal crackers were first introduced by the National Biscuit Company (later Nabisco) in 1902.
  • The crackers were originally named "Barnum's Animals Crackers," paying homage to the Barnum and Bailey Circus.
  • In 2018, Nabisco updated the packaging to depict cage-free animals roaming in a savanna, a change made in collaboration with PETA.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is National Animal Crackers Day?
It is observed on April 18 each year.
What is National Animal Crackers Day?
National Animal Crackers Day, observed annually on April 18th, celebrates the iconic, animal-shaped cookies that have been a beloved snack for generations. It's a day to appreciate these crunchy, sweet treats, often associated with childhood memories and their distinctive circus-themed packaging, whether enjoyed on their own or with a glass of milk.
How do people celebrate National Animal Crackers Day?
Bring National Animal Crackers Day to work or school with a short shout-out in a meeting or group chat.

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