National Jelly Bean Day
National Jelly Bean Day is a sweet excuse to sample nostalgic favorites, try unusual flavors, and share a handful with someone who could use a smile.
Overview
National Jelly Bean Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, is a delightful occasion dedicated to honoring the small, colorful, and flavorful sugar-shelled candies. It encourages enthusiasts to indulge in their favorite jelly bean flavors, discover new ones, and share these iconic sweets with friends and family. The day serves as a sweet reminder to appreciate the wide variety and history of this beloved confectionery.
Origin and story
The earliest known mention of jelly beans in an advertisement dates back to 1861, encouraging people to send them to Union soldiers during the American Civil War.
Jelly beans became widely associated with Easter in the United States around the late 19th century, likely due to their egg-like shape and springtime colors.
Quick facts
- DateApril 22
- TypeKindness / Community
- Great forCommunity groups, Friends, Coworkers
Also on this date
Ways to celebrate
One American president had a jelly bean habit so serious it became a matter of official government record — literally, with its own seal.
Meet the president who couldn't stop
Ronald Reagan started eating Goelitz jelly beans in 1966 to help quit pipe smoking, and by the time he reached the White House, he kept a standing order of 720 bags a month. His favorite flavor was licorice.
Learn about the official Jelly Belly jar
In 1981, the company that made his candy got official government authorization to produce a Jelly Belly jar stamped with the Presidential Seal. Reagan gave these jars as gifts to visiting heads of state and diplomats throughout his presidency.
Run your own taste test
Set up a blind taste test with mixed flavors and vote on the best and worst picks — and see if anyone in your group has a Reagan-level favorite.
Helpful resources: President Reagan and His Love of Jelly Beans (The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute)
Fun facts
- The earliest known mention of jelly beans in an advertisement dates back to 1861, encouraging people to send them to Union soldiers during the American Civil War.
- Jelly beans became widely associated with Easter in the United States around the late 19th century, likely due to their egg-like shape and springtime colors.
- Former U.S. President Ronald Reagan was famously fond of jelly beans, reportedly keeping them in the Oval Office and even using them to help quit smoking.
Sources and attribution
- President Reagan and His Love of Jelly Beans (The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute)
External links may lead to third-party websites.
Continue your streak
Open one more holiday before you go to build daily momentum.
FAQ
- When is National Jelly Bean Day?
- It is observed on April 22 each year.
- What is National Jelly Bean Day?
- National Jelly Bean Day, celebrated annually on April 22nd, is a delightful occasion dedicated to honoring the small, colorful, and flavorful sugar-shelled candies. It encourages enthusiasts to indulge in their favorite jelly bean flavors, discover new ones, and share these iconic sweets with friends and family. The day serves as a sweet reminder to appreciate the wide variety and history of this beloved confectionery.
- How do people celebrate National Jelly Bean Day?
- Run a jelly bean taste test and read about President Reagan's 720-bags-a-month habit, which led to an official Jelly Belly jar stamped with the Presidential Seal.
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