National Cherry Pie Day
As American as... Cherry Pie
Every year on February 20, we celebrate the flaky, fruity, nostalgic indulgence that is National Cherry Pie Day. Whether it’s served warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoyed cold from the fridge, cherry pie remains one of the most iconic American desserts—and for good reason.
Not only does it deliver a perfect balance of tart cherries and buttery crust, but it’s also steeped in presidential legend, often associated with George Washington and the infamous cherry tree story (spoiler: it's a myth).
Why Cherry Pie? A Slice of History
The roots of this holiday go deeper than dessert. Presidents’ Day, which often falls just before February 20, honors George Washington’s birthday (February 22). The cherry pie connection comes from a story invented by Washington’s biographer Mason Locke Weems, who claimed young George confessed to chopping down his father’s cherry tree by saying, “I cannot tell a lie.” While the tale is fictional, it made cherries and cherry pie symbolic of honesty and Americana.
Meanwhile, cherry pies themselves have been a part of American cooking since at least the 19th century, drawing on earlier English traditions of fruit-filled pastries.
How to Celebrate National Cherry Pie Day
- Bake Your Own: Try a classic double-crust cherry pie or experiment with mini tarts and lattice designs.
- Support Local Bakeries: Order a slice (or whole pie!) from your favorite local pie shop.
- Top It Off: Warm cherry pie + vanilla ice cream = pure comfort food bliss.
- Pie Pics, Please: Share your masterpiece on social with #CherryPieDay.
Certivance Can Help You Label It Right
From heritage bakery goods to store-brand classics, Certivance helps ensure your cherry pies and other desserts meet all FDA food labeling standards with clarity and consumer trust.
📞 Contact us for a compliance check on your packaging.
