National Day

National Chocolate Covered Anything Day

Celebrated on 12/16/2026

Quick Fact

National Chocolate Covered Anything Day, celebrated on December 16, encourages people to dip almost any food in chocolate. While chocolate-covered pretzels and strawberries are common, adventurous eaters have tried chocolate-covered bacon, insects, and even pickles.

Origins and Establishment of National Chocolate Covered Anything Day

The exact origins of National Chocolate Covered Anything Day are murky, but it is believed to have been created in the 1990s by chocolate enthusiasts or confectionery companies looking to boost winter sales. The holiday gained traction through online calendars and food blogs, with no single person or organization officially claiming credit. It is now recognized as a fun, unofficial food holiday on December 16 each year.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Initially celebrated with simple chocolate-covered fruits and nuts, the holiday has evolved to include a vast array of items, from savory snacks like potato chips and bacon to unconventional foods like gummy bears and cheese. Social media has fueled creativity, with people sharing photos of their chocolate-covered creations using hashtags like #ChocolateCoveredAnythingDay. Today, it is observed by home cooks, bakeries, and chocolate shops offering special treats, and is often used as an excuse for indulgence during the holiday season.

Facts & General Observations

  • Americans consume over 2.8 billion pounds of chocolate each year, with a significant spike around National Chocolate Covered Anything Day.
  • Chocolate-covered strawberries are the most popular item, accounting for nearly 30% of chocolate-covered fruit sales.
  • The world's largest chocolate-covered anything was a 5,000-pound chocolate-covered peanut butter cup, created in 2011 in the UK.

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