National Cherry Tart Day

Celebrated on 06/15/2026

Quick Fact

National Cherry Tart Day is celebrated on January 23rd each year. Cherry tarts date back to the 16th century, with the first known recipe appearing in a 1591 English cookbook. The day encourages baking and enjoying this sweet treat, which is particularly popular in the United States.

Origins and Establishment of National Cherry Tart Day

National Cherry Tart Day was established in the early 2000s by a group of pastry chefs and food enthusiasts who wanted to celebrate the versatility and deliciousness of cherry tarts. The exact year and founder are not well-documented, but the day gained popularity through social media and food blogs. January 23rd was chosen as it falls during the peak season for imported cherries in the Northern Hemisphere, ensuring fresh ingredients for baking.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over the years, National Cherry Tart Day has evolved from a niche observance into a widely recognized food holiday. Bakeries and home bakers alike participate by creating traditional cherry tarts with lattice crusts, as well as innovative variations like mini tarts, gluten-free versions, and savory cherry tarts. Social media campaigns using hashtags like #NationalCherryTartDay help spread the celebration, with many sharing recipes and photos of their creations.

Facts & General Observations

• Cherry tarts are a classic dessert in American cuisine, with cherry pie being a close relative; however, tarts are distinguished by their shallower, open-faced structure.
• The United States produces over 300 million pounds of tart cherries annually, with Michigan being the leading producer.
• January 23rd is also National Pie Day in some contexts, but National Cherry Tart Day specifically highlights the tart's unique characteristics.

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