National Choose Your Chocolate Day

National Choose Your Chocolate Day is dedicated to chocolate products and is celebrated on September 16th. Sweets, cakes, chocolate bars, cocoa cookies—the choices are endless. See’s Candies established this holiday in honor of its centenary and the birthday of the renowned chocolatier Mary C.

History

Chocolate has been known to humanity since ancient times. Evidence traces back to Native American tribes such as the Aztecs, who crushed cocoa beans and mixed them with water. Often used for ceremonies, chocolate was believed to have healing properties.

Chocolate spread to Europe in the 16th century, where cocoa powder was mixed with milk and sugar. Industrial production began three centuries later, in 1828, when a mechanical press was invented, making it easy to turn roasted cocoa beans into powder.

Chocolate’s popularity in the United States was boosted by Mary C, who worked as a confectioner. She cooked exclusively for her family until age 65, when she moved to Los Angeles and began selling her creations. Her products received high praise, and by 1925, many See’s Candies shops had opened, selling chocolates made according to Mary C’s traditions.

Today, the company upholds strict quality standards, using no preservatives or artificial ingredients in their sweets.

Interesting Facts

• Chocolate was so valued by the Mayan tribes that it was used as currency.
• Chocolate, when consumed in moderation, stimulates the brain and promotes the production of endorphins.
• The name “chocolate” comes from the Aztec word chocolatl, which means “bitter water.”

How to Take Part

Visit See’s Candies if you have a store nearby, or simply buy your favorite chocolate and enjoy it—either alone or with friends.

Gather your loved ones and host a fun chocolate-themed quiz, awarding small chocolate gift sets as prizes. You can also immerse yourself in the holiday spirit by reading Chocolat by Joanne Harris or Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl.

When is National Choose Your Chocolate Day in 2025?

National Choose Your Chocolate Day is observed on September 16 each year.

Observations