National Jawbreaker Day

A cheerful child with a colorful jawbreaker the size of their head, wearing a striped shirt, vibrant vintage carnival setting.. — National jawbreaker day illustration

Get ready to break some jaws and satisfy your sweet tooth because it's National Jawbreaker Day! This fun-filled day celebrates those deliciously hard candies that can make your taste buds do a somersault. Whether you're a fan of the classic jawbreakers or prefer the new-fangled ones with multiple layers and flavors, this day is all about embracing the jaw-dropping awesomeness of these candy marvels.

When is Jawbreaker Day?

It's national jawbreaker day on the 1st May.

The Origins of National Jawbreaker Day

So, how did National Jawbreaker Day come into existence? Well, it all started with a group of candy enthusiasts who wanted to dedicate a day to celebrate the joy and challenge of jawbreakers. They believed that this candy deserved a special place in the hearts (and mouths) of people everywhere. After much brainstorming and sticky fingers from excess candy consumption, they landed on the idea of National Jawbreaker Day.

Since its inception, National Jawbreaker Day has gained popularity and has become a day where jawbreaker lovers come together to share their love for these hard candies. From jawbreaker eating contests to jawbreaker-themed parties, the celebrations are as colorful and exciting as the candies themselves.

But why stop at celebrating just one day? Some dedicated jawbreaker enthusiasts have extended the celebrations to a week-long affair, indulging in jawbreakers of all shapes, sizes, and flavors. It truly is a sugar rush like no other!

And it's not just about the candy. National Jawbreaker Day is also a time to reflect on the artistry and craftsmanship behind these sweet confections. From the careful layering of different flavors to the mesmerizing patterns created by swirling colors, jawbreakers are truly a work of edible art.

History behind the term 'Jawbreaker'

1830

The Birth of the Candy Coating

In the early 19th century, a new type of candy coating was created. These small, hard candies were made by repeatedly coating a sugar syrup onto a center until it formed a thick layer. This process created a candy that took a long time to dissolve in the mouth, leading to the term 'jawbreaker' as it felt like one had to continuously work at it with their jaw.

1860

The Penny Candy for Kids

By the 1860s, jawbreakers became popular as penny candies, especially among children. Their long-lasting nature and vibrant colors made them an attractive choice for kids who enjoyed the challenge of keeping them in their mouths for as long as possible. The affordability and accessibility of these colorful treats significantly contributed to their growing popularity.

1900

The Confectionery Craze

As the confectionery industry grew rapidly in the early 20th century, jawbreakers became a staple in candy shops and penny candy stores. They were often displayed in large glass jars, enticing potential customers with their mesmerizing colors and size. Jawbreakers became synonymous with the joy and excitement of indulging in sweet treats, solidifying their place in popular culture.

1920

Mass Production and Commercialization

With advancements in candy manufacturing technology, jawbreakers began to be mass-produced. This allowed for more consistent shapes, colors, and sizes, making them even more appealing to consumers. The ability to produce jawbreakers on a larger scale also contributed to their affordability, making them accessible to a wider audience. The candy had now firmly established itself within the candy industry.

1970

Jawbreakers in Pop Culture

In the 1970s, jawbreakers found their way into popular culture, particularly in movies, TV shows, and comics. Their association with childhood nostalgia and their vibrant visual appeal made them perfect props for young characters. This exposure further solidified jawbreakers' place as an iconic candy and increased their popularity among different generations.

Did you know?

Did you know that the largest jawbreaker ever made weighed a whopping 6.6 pounds? It was created with multiple layers and took days to complete. That's a jaw-dropping amount of candy!