Annual observance

National Pumpkin Pie Day

December 25 Food / Dessert Updated 2025-12-18

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Overview

National Pumpkin Pie Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the beloved dessert. While often associated with Thanksgiving, this festive day on December 25th encourages everyone to enjoy a slice of warm, spiced pumpkin pie, making it a perfect treat to complement Christmas festivities or simply to savor its comforting flavors during the holiday season.

Observed each year on December 25, National Pumpkin Pie Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: National Pumpkin Pie Day on December 25 celebrates the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this iconic dessert, which has become a staple in holiday traditions. By highlighting its historical significance and seasonal appeal, this day invites food enthusiasts to indulge in a slice of nostalgia and joy during Christmas festivities.

Origin and story

Pumpkin pie has roots dating back to the 17th century in America, though early versions were quite different, often baked in hollowed-out pumpkins.

Pumpkins are technically a fruit, specifically a type of berry called a 'pepo', not a vegetable.

Quick facts

  • DateDecember 25
  • TypeFood / Dessert
  • Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

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How to Celebrate National Pumpkin Pie Day

National Pumpkin Pie Day celebrates one of the most iconic desserts of the fall and holiday season. Made with spiced pumpkin filling and a flaky crust, pumpkin pie is a longtime favorite at gatherings and celebrations.

Bake a pumpkin pie at home

Celebrate the day by baking a classic pumpkin pie using one of these trusted recipes:

Enjoy pumpkin pie your way

  • Enjoy a slice from a local bakery
  • Top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
  • Pair with coffee, tea, or hot cider
  • Share pie with friends, family, or coworkers

Try a twist on the classic

  • Make mini pumpkin pies
  • Try a graham cracker or gingersnap crust
  • Bake a dairy-free or gluten-free version
  • Add extra spices like cardamom or ginger

Did you know?

Pumpkin pie became closely associated with American holidays in the 19th century, especially Thanksgiving, as pumpkins were abundant and easy to store through the winter.

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Fun facts

  • Pumpkin pie has roots dating back to the 17th century in America, though early versions were quite different, often baked in hollowed-out pumpkins.
  • Pumpkins are technically a fruit, specifically a type of berry called a 'pepo', not a vegetable.
  • The earliest printed recipe for a pumpkin pie-like dish appeared in a 1675 English cookbook by Hannah Woolley.
  • The iconic 'spice blend' for pumpkin pie typically includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, sometimes allspice.
  • Pumpkin pie became a traditional Thanksgiving dessert in the 19th century, popularized by figures like Sarah Josepha Hale, who also campaigned for Thanksgiving to be a national holiday.
  • Commercially canned pumpkin puree is often made from a variety of squash, like Dickinson pumpkin, which is sweeter and less stringy than carving pumpkins.

Sources and attribution

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FAQ

When is National Pumpkin Pie Day?
It is observed on December 25 each year.
What is National Pumpkin Pie Day?
National Pumpkin Pie Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the beloved dessert. While often associated with Thanksgiving, this festive day on December 25th encourages everyone to enjoy a slice of warm, spiced pumpkin pie, making it a perfect treat to complement Christmas festivities or simply to savor its comforting flavors during the holiday season.
How do people celebrate National Pumpkin Pie Day?
Bake a classic pumpkin pie—or pick up a slice—and enjoy it with whipped cream, ice cream, or coffee.

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