Annual observance

National Pepperoni Pizza Day

September 20 Food / Dessert Updated 2025-12-18

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

Overview

National Pepperoni Pizza Day, observed annually on September 20th, is a delicious occasion dedicated to celebrating one of America's most beloved and iconic pizza toppings. This unofficial holiday encourages pizza enthusiasts across the nation to indulge in and appreciate the savory, slightly spicy, and universally appealing flavor of pepperoni, often found as the star ingredient on countless pizza pies, highlighting its enduring popularity in culinary culture.

Observed each year on September 20, National Pepperoni Pizza Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Pepperoni Pizza Day on September 20 celebrates the enduring popularity of pepperoni, a topping that has become synonymous with American pizza culture. This day highlights the savory and slightly spicy flavor that makes pepperoni a beloved choice for pizza lovers across the nation.

Origin and story

Pepperoni is consistently ranked as the most popular pizza topping in the United States.

The word "pepperoni" is an American adaptation, not a traditional Italian word for a type of salami, derived from the Italian word "peperoni" for bell peppers.

Quick facts

  • DateSeptember 20
  • TypeFood / Dessert
  • Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.
  • Host a tasting plate with sweet and savory pairings.
  • Plan a 10-minute activity that fits the food / dessert vibe and make it a mini tradition.
  • Try a playful twist: cover non-traditional foods in chocolate or sauces inspired by National Pepperoni Pizza Day.
  • National Pepperoni Pizza Day lands on September 20 — host a quick nod with Foodies, Chocolate lovers and snap a photo.

Fun facts

  • Pepperoni is consistently ranked as the most popular pizza topping in the United States.
  • The word "pepperoni" is an American adaptation, not a traditional Italian word for a type of salami, derived from the Italian word "peperoni" for bell peppers.
  • When baked, pepperoni slices often curl up at the edges into small 'cups,' a phenomenon enjoyed by many pizza lovers.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is National Pepperoni Pizza Day?
It is observed on September 20 each year.
What is National Pepperoni Pizza Day?
National Pepperoni Pizza Day, observed annually on September 20th, is a delicious occasion dedicated to celebrating one of America's most beloved and iconic pizza toppings. This unofficial holiday encourages pizza enthusiasts across the nation to indulge in and appreciate the savory, slightly spicy, and universally appealing flavor of pepperoni, often found as the star ingredient on countless pizza pies, highlighting its enduring popularity in culinary culture.
How do people celebrate National Pepperoni Pizza Day?
Pair music, snacks, or décor that match the theme and enjoy a small break.

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