National Candy Apple Day

Young child holding a candy apple, wearing a cute apron, autumn backdrop of colorful leaves..
National candy apple day illustration

Hey there candy apple enthusiasts! Get ready to sink your teeth into a juicy article all about National Candy Apple Day.

When is Candy Apple Day?

It's national candy apple day on the 31st October.


Let's Get to the Core of National Candy Apple Day

Every year on November 4th, we celebrate the iconic treat that combines the perfect blend of sweetness, tartness, and crunchiness—candy apples! This delicious confection is made by coating apples with a sticky, gooey layer of caramel or candy, and sometimes even adding extra toppings like chopped nuts or sprinkles.

But how did this delightful treat become a national holiday? It all started with a simple caramel-coated apple being sold in a small candy shop in Newark, New Jersey, back in 1908. The shop owner, William W. Kolb, was experimenting with different candy molds and decided to dunk apples into his caramel mixture. The result was an instant hit, and candy apples quickly gained popularity.

Over the years, the candy apple craze spread like wildfire, with various adaptations and variations popping up all around the country. Today, you can find candy apples at carnivals, fairs, and even gourmet candy shops.

So, why not celebrate National Candy Apple Day by indulging in this sweet and scrumptious treat? Whether you prefer classic caramel or enjoy experimenting with different flavors and toppings, there's a candy apple out there to satisfy every taste bud.

Fun Fact: Sticky and Spooky Delights

Did you know that candy apples are often associated with Halloween? That's right! The tradition of giving out candy apples on Halloween dates back to the early 1900s. It was believed that by giving children a nutritious apple in a coating of caramel or candy, it would discourage them from playing tricks.



History behind the term 'Candy Apple'


1908

The Invention

The term 'candy apple' first emerged in 1908 when a man named William W. Kolb created the iconic treat. Kolb was a local confectioner in Newark, New Jersey, who decided to experiment with a new way of coating apples. He developed a method to cover apples with a layer of red cinnamon-flavored candy, which gave birth to the term 'candy apple.'


1908

The invention of the candy apple

In 1908, candy apples were invented by William W. Kolb. He was a candy maker from Newark, New Jersey. Kolb was experimenting with red cinnamon candies for Christmas when he decided to dip apples in the candy mixture. This innovative treat quickly gained popularity and became known as the candy apple.


1908

The Birth of the Candy Apple

The term 'candy apple' originated in 1908 when a candy maker named William W. Kolb decided to try something new with his confections. He was experimenting with red cinnamon flavored candy for the Christmas season when he had the idea to dip an apple into the candy mixture. The result was a shiny, red, and delicious treat that quickly became a hit.



1908

The Birth of the Candy Apple

The term 'candy apple' originated in 1908 when a candy maker named William Kolb first introduced the sweet treat at an amusement park in Newark, New Jersey. The candy apple was created by coating an apple in a red sugar syrup and allowing it to harden. The vibrant red color and the shiny, sugary coating made it an instant hit among fairgoers.


1908

The Invention of the Candy Apple

In 1908, the candy apple, also known as the toffee apple, was invented by a candy maker named William W. Kolb. He was experimenting with red cinnamon-flavored candy for Christmas, and one of his creations accidentally dipped into a pot of boiling candy. This resulted in a shiny red coating around the apple, giving birth to the iconic candy apple.


1948

Candy Apples Gain Popularity

In 1948, candy apples gained widespread popularity when they were featured in the popular movie 'The Wizard of Oz.' The scene where Dorothy visits the enchanted apple orchard and encounters the Wicked Witch of the West's poisoned apple trees showcased the magical appeal of the candy-coated fruit. This exposure in the film sparked a renewed interest in candy apples and solidified their place as a beloved confectionary treat.



1940s

Fairground Delight

During the 1940s, candy apples gained immense popularity at state fairs and carnivals across the United States. Their vibrant red appearance and sweet flavor made them a favorite among fairgoers. Many people started associating candy apples with the joy and excitement of these festive events.


1950s

Popularity Grows at Fairs and Carnivals

During the 1950s, candy apples gained significant popularity at fairs and carnivals across the United States. The vibrant red color and sweet taste made them a festive and enticing treat. Vendors began selling candy apples at fairgrounds, creating a sense of nostalgia and fun for visitors. This led to the candy apple becoming a staple of traditional fair and carnival fare.


1948

Candy apples at carnivals

By 1948, candy apples had become a beloved treat at carnivals and fairs across the United States. People would eagerly line up to get their hands on these sticky yet delicious snacks. The vibrant red color of the candy coating made them visually attractive, and the combination of the sweet candy shell with the crisp apple underneath proved to be a winning combination.



1950

Candy Apples' Rise in Popularity

During the 1950s, the candy apple gained widespread popularity, becoming a staple at fall festivals, fairs, and Halloween events. This sweet treat became a symbol of the autumn season, often associated with harvest traditions and celebrations.


1950

Carnivals and Fairs Embrace Candy Apples

By the 1950s, candy apples became a staple at carnivals, fairs, and amusement parks across the United States. Their visually striking appearance and delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors made them a favorite indulgence for both children and adults. The candy apple quickly became synonymous with fun-filled festivities and remains an iconic treat associated with outdoor celebrations.


1970

Candy Apples in Pop Culture

In the 1970s, candy apples made appearances in pop culture, further solidifying their status as an iconic treat. They featured prominently in movies, such as 'Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory' (1971), where they were showcased in the famous 'Lollipop Guild' scene.



1960s

Candy apples in popular culture

During the 1960s, candy apples gained even more popularity thanks to their appearances in various forms of popular culture. They were often featured in movies, television shows, and even song lyrics. This widespread exposure further cemented candy apples as an iconic treat associated with fun and nostalgia.


1950

Halloween Tradition

By the 1950s, candy apples had become strongly linked to Halloween, a tradition that continues to this day. The combination of sweet candy coating and a crisp apple made them a perfect treat for the fall season and Halloween festivities. This association further solidified the term 'candy apple' in popular culture.


1970s

Trick-or-Treating Tradition

In the 1970s, candy apples became associated with Halloween and trick-or-treating. Parents started making or buying candy apples as a homemade treat to give out to young trick-or-treaters. The combination of the crisp apple, sweet candy coating, and festive presentation made it an ideal Halloween treat. The tradition continues today, with candy apples often being a staple in Halloween celebrations.



1988

National Candy Apple Day

In 1988, National Candy Apple Day was established to celebrate this beloved sweet treat. The day falls on October 31st, coinciding with Halloween, further emphasizing the connection between candy apples and the holiday. On this day, people indulge in candy apples, either by making them at home or purchasing them from local vendors. It has become an annual celebration of this iconic confection.


1964

Candy Apple Red

In 1964, the term 'candy apple red' gained prominence as a color description. The hue resembles the vibrant red coating of a candy apple. It became a popular term to describe the bright, glossy red finish of cars, giving a nod to the eye-catching appeal of the iconic treat.


1988

National Candy Apple Day

In 1988, National Candy Apple Day was officially established in the United States. Celebrated on November 4th each year, this day honors the deliciousness of candy apples and encourages people to enjoy this delightful treat. It has become a day to indulge in the sticky sweetness and appreciate the history and tradition behind candy apples.



1988

National Candy Apple Day

On November 9, 1988, National Candy Apple Day was established to celebrate this delicious confection. It encourages people to indulge in the sweet and crunchy combination of apples and sugary coatings, while also appreciating the history and tradition behind the candy apple.


1964

National Candy Apple Day is Established

In 1964, National Candy Apple Day was established in the United States. Celebrated annually on November 4th, this special day honors the beloved confection and encourages people to savor the delightful combination of juicy apples and crunchy, sugary coating. It serves as a reminder of the joy that candy apples bring to people of all ages and acts as a fun excuse to indulge in this classic treat.


Present Day

Continued Popularity and Variations

Today, candy apples continue to be enjoyed around the world, particularly during the fall season and at Halloween. While the classic red coating remains the most popular, candy apples now come in a variety of flavors and colors, including caramel, chocolate, and even sour options. The term 'candy apple' has become deeply ingrained in popular culture, symbolizing both nostalgia and the joy of indulging in a festive and delicious treat.



Did you know?

Did you know that candy apples are often associated with Halloween? That's right! The tradition of giving out candy apples on Halloween dates back to the early 1900s. It was believed that by giving children a nutritious apple in a coating of caramel or candy, it would discourage them from playing tricks.

Tagged

romance food fun

First identified

31st October 2015

Most mentioned on

31st October 2019

Total mentions

25

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