National Pie Day

National Pie Day History

National Pie Day is dedicated to paying tribute to one of the oldest and most popular forms of baked goods. Embracing the universality of pies and their rich diversity across the globe, this observance gives people an opportunity to savor their favourite pie variations and even explore new ones. This annual event commemorates the rich history, cultural significance, and culinary joy that pies bring, by fostering appreciation for this universally loved dish.

National Pie Day finds its roots in the United States, established in 1986 by the American Pie Council to commemorate Crisco’s 75th anniversary. Despite its US origin, the observance finds resonance in Canada due to the country's deep-rooted pie-loving tradition. Variations such as the sweet Saskatoon berry pie or the classic tourtière, a much-loved meat pie of Quebec cuisine, signify the nation's fondness for this versatile dish. It is also an occasion that empowers bakeries, cafes, and households across Canada to showcase their culinary prowess through their unique pie recipes.

Canadians celebrate National Pie Day by indulging in their favourite pie, baking pies at home, hosting pie-themed parties, or participating in baking contests in communities. Bakeries and cafes may offer special promotions or introduce new pie flavours marking this day. Even educational institutions may host demonstrations or workshops to celebrate the multidimensional aspect of pies, from the art of making pie crusts to filling them. Just like in the US, National Pie Day is celebrated in Canada each year on January 23rd.

Facts about National Pie Day

• The first pies were made by early Romans who would use reeds or meats and fish's as a pie shell filling.
  
  
• Pies in Canada often use ingredients that are unique to the country or are difficult to find elsewhere, such as maple syrup, Saskatoon berries, and Canadian cheeses, which lend distinctive flavors that you won't find in pies from other countries.
• Canadians, particularly those in the First Nations communities, have been enjoying various forms of bannock – a flat, unleavened bread – for centuries. While not technically a pie, bannock can be prepared and served in ways that resemble pie, such as rolled out thinly and filled with sweet or savory ingredients.

In the News and Trending in Canada for National Pie Day

Top things to do in Canada for National Pie Day

• Visit your local bakery and check out what kind of pies they're offering. There might be special deals for National Pie Day.
• Films and shows you can watch that relate to Pie are:
  Waitress - This isn't set in Canada but is a popular movie about pie-making and includes some delightful pie recipes.
  Anna Olson: Bake - This Food Network Canada show features Pastry Chef Anna Olson and she covers everything about baking including pies.
  The Great Canadian Baking Show - This is a Canadian adaptation of the British series "The Great British Bake Off." Amateur bakers from across Canada compete in a series of themed culinary challenges. The show includes a "Pie Week" where contestants are tasked with creating a range of pie dishes.
  You Gotta Eat Here - This is a series about great local eats (including pies) in Canada.
• Popular things to do on National Pie Day in Canada are:
  1) Pie Eating Contest: Food events and bakeries might host pie-eating contests, either as individual challenges or as a part of larger events.
  2) Pie Baking & Decorating Class: Cooking schools may organize special pie baking and decorating classes.
  3) Pie Party: Some people might organize a pie-themed party at home, inviting friends and family to bake and bring their favorite pies.
  4) Farmers Markets or Food Events: Some farmers markets or food festivals during this period might have special activities related to Pie Day.