NATIONAL PIZZA DAY

Pizza is a type of flatbread topped with sauce, cheese, meat, and vegetables. Pizza has its origin in Italy. Very little was known about this bready delicacy outside Italy and other Italian immigrant societies before World War II. The American troops were tired of their limited rations, and that is how they discovered this cheesy and saucy bread from the Italians. When the soldiers returned to America, the popularity of pizza spread fast across all the states. As a celebration of this iconic dish and an excuse to eat more pizza, Americans observe National Pizza Day on February 9th.

History of National Pizza Day

No one knows precisely how National Pizza Day started. Records of National Pizza Day can, however, be traced in the 2000s. However, the history behind pizza itself is fascinating.

According to historians, the pizza was invented in the 10th century in the town of Naples, Italy. The original pizza was, however, nothing like we know it today. The Romans would create it from placenta bread and then cover it with several layers of sprinkled cheese, spread sauce, and herbs. As the years went by, this dish was modified, and additional toppings of the flatbread included garlic, basil, and tomatoes.

In the 19th century, Pizza found its way into America through the Italian immigrants. Soon after, the American troops returned from World War II and introduced the taste of pizza to fellow citizens.

In 1905, the first American pizzeria named Lombardi’s opened in New York City. The pizza market drastically exploded, and it became one of the most famous American foods. Soon after, several other pizza chains opened. These included Pizza Hut, Domino’s, Little Caesars and Papa John’s.

How to Celebrate National Pizza Day

National Pizza Day is a holiday for pizza lovers. A day to taste and indulge in your favorite pizza flavors without worrying how much calories are getting into the body. Therefore, the best way to observe this day is by eating pizza. You can cook one at home or order from your favorite pizza joint.

Remember, pizza has no perfect eating time. You can crack an egg on it and enjoy it for breakfast. Spread salad on it and have your lunch. And for dinner, a meaty topping will do you good. That’s how perfect pizza is.

If you want to enjoy National Pizza Day to the finest details, then rediscover the world of pizza. Break out the routine of your favorite flavors. Break your curiosity and try out a pizza with unique toppings. It could be a fried chicken pizza, beer-battered fried calamari pizza, spinach pizza or butternut squash pizza. Don’t forget to take pictures while enjoying your pizza and share it on social media by using the National Pizza Day hashtag #PizzaDay.

If your town is organizing a pizza festival, be sure to attend. Besides a chance to experience fun activities you’ll get to taste a variety of pizza types. Some of the commonest pizza festivals include Phoenix Pizza Festival, Chicago Pizza Fest, Cleveland Pizza Fest, and Pizza Festival- Los Angeles.

Why Celebrate National Pizza Day

When it comes to pizza, there is something for everyone. From thin crust, deep dish, saucy, classic mozzarella to wood-fired or oven pizza. Pizza, unlike most food, can easily be adapted to different tastes according to preference. Pizza preparation is flexible, and cheese can be interplayed to sauce or crust to create different flavors, textures, and aromas.

Another reason why we celebrate Pizza, it’s because of the festiveness it creates. Whether you have a birthday, tea party, an office party or just a family dinner, pizza adds something extra special to the celebrations.

When is National Pizza Month?

National Pizza Month is observed in October. The observance was created in 1984 by the publisher of the Pizza Magazine, Gerry Durnell. Every October, Americans celebrate by trying out and enjoying various types of pizzas and pizza slices.

National Pizza Day Deals and Freebies

Like many other Pizza Days, National Pizza Day comes with special freebies, discounts, and offers. Besides the weekly deals, most pizzerias across the US treat pizza lovers with unique pizza flavors, Buy One Get One Free deal, a chance to win free pizza for an entire year and a variety of gift cards to keep enjoying pizza. Stay tuned on social media and specific websites for a better understanding of how to grab these exciting offers.

Interesting National Pizza Day Facts

- Every year, over 3 billion pizzas are sold in the US.

- 17% of all the restaurants in the US are pizzerias.

- On average, each American consumes about 23 pounds of pizza every year.

- Ottavia is the world’s largest pizza and was made on December 22nd, 2012 in Rome, Italy. The entirely gluten-free pizza had a surface area of 1,261.65 m².

- The first real pizza was sold in 1738 in Naples Italy.

- Pepperoni is the most popular pizza in the US, with over 36% preferring it over other flavors.