National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day

National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day is celebrated in the United States on November 12. This holiday is perfect for pizza lovers—after all, who can resist a slice topped with gooey, fragrant cheese? The only rule: no anchovies! That little fish just doesn’t mix well with the other pizza toppings. What do you think?

History

The creator of this national day is unknown, but that doesn’t stop us from celebrating! According to some sources, the first pizza in America was made in New York’s Little Italy in 1905. Americans quickly embraced pizza, and its popularity soared after World War II. Since then, countless recipes and new toppings have been developed.

Who started adding anchovies to pizza? No one really knows. Over the years, people have joked about this unusual combination, wondering how anyone could like it. Of course, everyone has their own taste, but for this holiday, anchovies are officially left out!

Interesting Facts

• More than 500 million pizzas are eaten around the world every day—not counting homemade pies!
• Across Europe, pizza is often preferred over other types of pies.
• The most popular topping in the U.S. is spicy pepperoni.
• Mozzarella is considered the perfect cheese for pizza.
• The first online pizza order was made in 1993, when Pizza Hut launched its website for home delivery.
• In 2001, pizza was sent to space for the first time, at a cost of over $1 million (thanks to Pizza Hut). Russian cosmonaut Yuri Usachev got to enjoy it on the International Space Station.
• Frozen pizzas that can be reheated in a microwave or oven were introduced in 1962.
• Some Japanese pizzerias create a “live” effect using thin slices of fish that curl from the heat of the pizza, making it look like the topping is moving.

How to Take Part

Enjoy your favorite pizza today! If you know someone who likes anchovies, ask them what makes the combination special. Visit your favorite pizzeria or order a pizza to enjoy at home. Throw a pizza party—but remember, no anchovies allowed!

When is National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day in 2025?

National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day is observed on November 12 each year.

Observations