National Cherry Pie Day is celebrated every year on February 20, bringing joy to sweet lovers in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and other English-speaking countries. This tasty holiday highlights the classic cherry pie—an iconic dessert enjoyed by generations. While fresh cherries can be hard to find in February, frozen cherries are available in most supermarkets and work perfectly for baking. It’s best to use unsweetened cherries, as they release less juice during baking. One of the most popular varieties for pie in the U.S. is the Montmorency cherry, known for its distinctive sweet and tart flavor.
History
Cherry pie, like apple pie, is a beloved American dessert. Early settlers in America often baked sweet pies in long, narrow baking pans. Interestingly, Americans sometimes left the crust uneaten, since its main purpose was simply to hold the filling, and it would sometimes get burned in the oven.
Interesting Facts
The cherry pie was first invented in England, and one of its most famous fans was Queen Elizabeth I. In the United States, President George Washington considered cherry pie one of his favorite treats. It’s no coincidence that National Cherry Pie Day falls in February, close to Washington’s birthday.
Other interesting facts about cherry pie:
- Removing pits from cherries can be a time-consuming process that often requires a special tool.
- The traditional cherry pie is usually oval in shape.
- In America, cherry pie is often made for birthdays and family celebrations.
On this day, families often bake cherry pies together and invite friends or relatives to enjoy them.
How to Take Part
The best way to take part in National Cherry Pie Day is to bake a cherry pie or mini cherry pies using any recipe you like.
When baking, make sure not to overcook your pie. To check if it’s ready, carefully pierce the center with a toothpick or matchstick—if it comes out clean, the pie is done. If you’re short on time, try making cherry turnovers with store-bought puff pastry. Serve your cherry pie with a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
When is National Cherry Pie Day in 2026?
National Cherry Pie Day is observed on February 20 each year.
Observations
| Weekday | Month | Day | Year |
| Friday | February | 20 | 2026 |
| Saturday | February | 20 | 2027 |
| Sunday | February | 20 | 2028 |
| Tuesday | February | 20 | 2029 |
