Annual observance

National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day

April 2 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 Peanut Butter and Jelly Day, observed annually on April 2nd, celebrates one of America's most beloved and iconic sandwiches. This simple yet satisfying combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet fruit jelly, typically spread between two slices of bread, has been a staple in lunchboxes and kitchens for generations, evoking nostalgia and providing a quick, nutritious meal or snack for people of all ages.

Observed each year on April 2, National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day on April 2 celebrates a quintessential American sandwich that has become a symbol of comfort and nostalgia for many. This beloved combination not only offers a quick and nutritious meal option but also highlights the creativity and simplicity that define home cooking.

Origin and story

The first known written recipe for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich appeared in 1901 in the Boston Cooking-School Magazine of Culinary Science and Domestic Economics.

The sandwich gained significant popularity in the United States during World War II, as both peanut butter and jelly were affordable, nutritious, and easily transportable rations for soldiers.

Quick facts

  • DateApril 2
  • TypeFood / Dessert
  • Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Share a recipe photo, tag friends, and swap your favorite topping ideas.
  • National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day lands on April 2 — host a quick nod with Foodies, Chocolate lovers and snap a photo.
  • Host a tasting plate with sweet and savory pairings.
  • Share one fast fact about National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day: The first known written recipe for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich appeared in 1901 in the Boston Cooking-School Magazine of Culinary Science and Domestic Economics.
  • Post a story with #national-peanut-butter-and-jelly-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.

Fun facts

  • The first known written recipe for a peanut butter and jelly sandwich appeared in 1901 in the Boston Cooking-School Magazine of Culinary Science and Domestic Economics.
  • The sandwich gained significant popularity in the United States during World War II, as both peanut butter and jelly were affordable, nutritious, and easily transportable rations for soldiers.
  • Peanut butter was initially introduced as a high-protein delicacy, often served in upscale tea rooms before becoming a household staple.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day?
It is observed on April 2 each year.
What is National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day?
National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day, observed annually on April 2nd, celebrates one of America's most beloved and iconic sandwiches. This simple yet satisfying combination of creamy peanut butter and sweet fruit jelly, typically spread between two slices of bread, has been a staple in lunchboxes and kitchens for generations, evoking nostalgia and providing a quick, nutritious meal or snack for people of all ages.
How do people celebrate National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day?
Share a recipe photo, tag friends, and swap your favorite topping ideas.

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