National Pepperoni Pizza Day

Celebrated on 09/20/2026

Quick Fact

Pepperoni is the most popular pizza topping in the United States, accounting for about 36% of all pizza orders. National Pepperoni Pizza Day is celebrated annually on September 20, giving pizza lovers a dedicated day to enjoy this spicy, cured sausage topping.

Origins and Establishment of National Pepperoni Pizza Day

The exact origins of National Pepperoni Pizza Day are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been created by pizza enthusiasts or food industry groups to celebrate one of America's favorite pizza toppings. The day has been unofficially observed for many years, with the date September 20 becoming widely recognized through social media and food blogs. While there is no single founder, the holiday gained traction in the early 2000s as pizza chains and pizzerias began promoting special deals and events on this day.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, National Pepperoni Pizza Day has evolved from a niche observance to a widely recognized food holiday. Today, it is celebrated by pizzerias, restaurants, and home cooks across the United States. Many pizza chains offer discounts, buy-one-get-one deals, or free slices on this day. Social media plays a big role, with hashtags like #NationalPepperoniPizzaDay trending as people share photos of their pepperoni pizzas. The holiday has also sparked creative variations, such as pepperoni-stuffed crusts or gourmet pepperoni pizzas with unique cheeses and sauces.

Facts & General Observations

• Americans consume approximately 251 million pounds of pepperoni annually, with most of it on pizzas.
• Pepperoni is derived from Italian salami and is typically made from a mixture of pork and beef seasoned with paprika and chili powder.
• The largest pepperoni pizza ever made weighed over 14,000 pounds and was created in 2016 in California.

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