National Pizza Day (February 9)

ByClare Brown Posted on Updated on

National Pizza Day on February 9th is a delicious excuse to indulge in cheesy, crusty goodness.

Whether you’re a fan of thin crust or deep dish, this holiday invites pizza lovers everywhere to enjoy their favorite slice.

As one of the more popular yet quirky celebrations, it also highlights the growing list of weird holidays in February.

When is it?

National Pizza Day falls on February 9th each year, offering the perfect mid-winter treat to brighten your week.

Who Invented Pizza?

While flatbreads with toppings have existed for centuries, pizza as we know it began in 18th-century Naples, Italy, as a quick meal for working-class citizens. Over time, it evolved into a global phenomenon.

pizza on a black board

The History of the Holiday

Pizza’s origins trace back to Naples, Italy, where it was created in the 18th century as an inexpensive, portable meal for working-class citizens.

These early pizzas were sold by street vendors or small bakeries and often featured simple toppings like tomatoes, cheese, anchovies, or garlic.

Despite its humble beginnings, pizza began to gain prestige in 1889 when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples. Legend says she was served a pizza resembling the Italian flag—with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—which led to the creation of the Margherita pizza, named in her honor.

By the late 19th century, Italian immigrants brought pizza to the United States, where it initially remained a niche ethnic dish. In 1905, Gennaro Lombardi opened the first licensed pizzeria in New York City, Lombardi’s, which still operates today in Manhattan’s Little Italy.

Pizza’s popularity exploded after World War II, as returning American soldiers brought back a love for the dish they had encountered in Italy. The post-war boom in convenience foods and dining out cemented pizza’s place as a household favorite.

Chain restaurants like Pizza Hut (founded in 1958) and Domino’s (1960) further expanded pizza’s reach, making it a global phenomenon.

National Pizza Day likely emerged in the late 20th century as a way to honor the dish’s iconic status, but its true origins remain unclear.

What is clear, however, is that pizza has transcended borders and cultures, becoming one of the world’s most universally beloved foods.

Top 5 Facts About Pizza

  1. Pepperoni is the most popular topping in the U.S., ordered on over 1/3 of all pizzas.
  2. Americans eat an average of 23 pounds of pizza per person each year.
  3. The first pizzeria, Antica Pizzeria, opened in Naples in 1738.
  4. The world’s largest pizza was over 13,000 square feet, made in Rome in 2012.
  5. Pizza Hut, founded in 1958, now operates in over 100 countries.

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Activities to Celebrate

  • Explore International Pizza Variations: Take your taste buds on a world tour by trying global styles of pizza, such as Turkish pide, Japanese okonomiyaki-inspired pizza, or Indian naan pizza. For a sweet twist, experiment with dessert pizzas featuring chocolate, fruits, and cream cheese.
  • Host a Pizza-Making Party at Home: Gather friends and family to create your own from scratch with a pizza oven. Set up a topping bar with options ranging from classics like pepperoni and mushrooms to adventurous choices like prosciutto, figs, or truffle oil. Encourage everyone to design their own signature pie!
  • Try Unique Pizza Toppings: Step outside the comfort zone of traditional toppings. Experiment with combinations like shrimp and garlic butter, pear and gorgonzola, or spicy honey and sausage. Don’t forget vegetarian options like roasted veggies and arugula pesto!
  • Visit a Local Pizzeria: Support small businesses by enjoying authentic flavors at a nearby pizzeria. Look for places that specialize in regional styles like Neapolitan, New York-style, or Chicago deep-dish pizza. Some spots may even host specials or events for National Pizza Day.
  • Get Creative with DIY Pizza Art: Turn pizza-making into an art project for kids by letting them shape their dough into fun designs like hearts, stars, or animals. Use colorful ingredients like bell peppers, olives, and cherry tomatoes to decorate their creations.
  • Organize a Pizza Taste-Off: Challenge friends or family to a pizza taste-off. Order pizzas from several local spots or make different recipes at home, then rate them for taste, crust texture, and creativity.
national pizza day

Recipes for National Pizza Day

  • Pepperoni Pizza Muffins: Bite-sized and kid-friendly, these muffins are made with biscuit dough, pepperoni, mozzarella, and pizza sauce. A quick and customizable snack for busy families.
  • Buffalo Ranch Chicken Pizza: A spicy twist featuring ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, and mozzarella. Perfect for game day or a flavorful dinner.
  • Greek Pizza: Topped with feta, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and arugula, this Mediterranean-inspired pizza is light, colorful, and deliciously healthy.
  • Dessert Pizza: A sweet treat with a cookie crust, cream cheese frosting, fresh fruit, and a drizzle of chocolate or honey. Fun and festive for any celebration!
  • Vegan Pizza Rolls: Rolled dough filled with marinara, veggies, and vegan cheese. A dairy-free, plant-based snack or party appetizer.
  • Sheet Pan Pizza: A no-fuss option baked on a sheet pan with your favorite toppings. Great for crispy edges and feeding a crowd!

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