- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- BeverageChocolateDrinking
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every December 13
- Holiday emoji:
- ☕
National Cocoa Day warms spirits every December 13, inviting everyone to enjoy a comforting cup of this beloved beverage. Whether you prefer a classic hot cocoa or a rich hot chocolate, this day is perfect for indulging in its sweet, chocolatey goodness. Gather your ingredients, experiment with new recipes, and share your favorite cocoa creations with friends and family.
Want to sponsor National Cocoa Day? Learn how
Expected National Cocoa Day Deals
While we await official 2027 promotions, history shows that National Cocoa Day often brings delightful deals from major beverage and dessert chains. Expect Starbucks and Dunkin’ to offer discounts on their hot chocolate and cocoa-based drinks, perhaps with special limited-time flavors. Grocery stores like Whole Foods Market and Kroger might feature sales on cocoa powder, marshmallows, and other fixings from brands like Hershey’s and Ghirardelli. Specialty cafes and local bakeries are also likely to run their own festive promotions, from buy-one-get-one deals to unique cocoa flights. Even brands like Swiss Miss could offer digital coupons for their classic mixes. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as December 13 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Cocoa Day
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalCocoaDay. Film a quick recipe video for a unique hot cocoa flavor or a DIY cocoa bomb tutorial.
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalCocoaDay. Share a cozy photo of your perfect mug of cocoa, complete with festive toppings and a warm aesthetic.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalCocoaDay. Ask your community to share their favorite cocoa memories or recipes.
National Cocoa Day Hero
Daniel Peter
History of National Cocoa Day
Chocolate has a long and ancient history. The first origins of cocoa can be traced back to 5000 years. Archaeologists believe that this is only as early as we can trace it. Of course, the chocolate back then was much different from that which we consume now, as sugar was still scarce. The beverage was flavored with vanilla, chili, and was served throughout the year. It was reportedly more popular during the Olmec period, where it was used for spiritual praying. It was once used as a trade currency in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.
It first was found by European explorers in South America, where it was already enjoyed for hundreds of years before the arrival of the Europeans. Not only that, but it was the Spaniards who first found the flavor unpleasant and declared it bitter. In fact, chocolate became an acquired taste. It would not be until it was introduced to Europe and adopted as a luxury drink of the wealthy that it would be sweetened. This led to the invention of milk chocolate. And it wouldn’t be until 1828 that powdered chocolate would be available for consumption. Soon after this, the chocolate bar and instant hot cocoa came into existence.
The three prominent varieties of cocoa plants are Forastero, Trinitario, and Criollo. Forastero is a commonly used variant that contributes to up to 90% of the world’s cocoa production. Trinitario originated from Trinidad and is a hybrid variety of cocoa. Criollo is prone to diseases and less common — it is mostly cultivated mainly by Venezuela. Trinitario is foremost in quality and when compared to the other two varieties, it produces higher yields due to its disease-resistant nature.
National Cocoa Day timeline
During the summer of 1502, on his fourth visit to the Americas, Christopher Columbus finds cocoa beans from a native Mayan trader near modern Honduras.
The first mechanical cocoa grinder is invented in Bristol, U.K.
Cadbury is founded by John Cadbury in Birmingham, U.K., where he sells tea, coffee, and drinking chocolate.
The increase in the price of chocolate candy bars by three cents in Canada leads to short-lived country-wide youth protests.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which makes all things cocoa alluring, tops the box office charts for five weeks.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Cocoa Day
Local businesses can warm up their customer base by celebrating National Cocoa Day with festive promotions. Cafes and bakeries could offer special cocoa flights, featuring different flavors like peppermint, chili, or salted caramel, or provide a free topping bar for hot cocoa purchases. Retailers might host a ‘Cocoa & Shop’ event, serving complimentary cocoa while customers browse for holiday gifts. Even offices could set up a cozy cocoa station for employees, fostering a sense of warmth and appreciation during the chilly December days. Partner with local chocolate makers to source unique ingredients and promote community spirit.
National Cocoa Day FAQs
When is National Cocoa Day?
National Cocoa Day 2026 falls on Sunday, December 13, offering a perfect opportunity to unwind with a warm, comforting beverage as the weekend winds down.
What's the difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate?
Hot cocoa, typically made from cocoa powder, milk or water, and sugar, is generally lighter and less fatty as the cocoa butter has been removed. Hot chocolate, on the other hand, is made from ground chocolate that still contains cocoa butter, resulting in a richer, denser, and often more decadent drink.
What are the health benefits of cocoa?
Cocoa is rich in antioxidants, particularly flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health. It also contains minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc, and has been linked to improved mood and brain function, making it a surprisingly beneficial treat.
Where does cocoa come from?
Cocoa originates from the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao), primarily grown in tropical regions near the equator, with West Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia being major producing areas. The beans harvested from the tree’s pods are processed to create cocoa powder, chocolate liquor, and cocoa butter.
How To Celebrate National Cocoa Day
Drink cocoa
No National Cocoa Day is complete without enjoying a cup of this delicious drink. Make a cup of cocoa the way you like it and enjoy it. Make work a bit more fun by having a cocoa recipe swap and trying out the different versions while on a tea break.
Try using hot cocoa bombs
If you are an ambitious hot cocoa fan, try your hand at making hot cocoa bombs. Hot cocoa bombs are chocolate spheres made with cocoa, marshmallows, and other ingredients. It is a truly unique way to enjoy cocoa.
Try different toppings and spices
Take your hot cocoa game to the next level by experimenting with different toppings. Marshmallows, candy canes, caramel, and toffees are only some of the toppings that will make your drink extra delicious. If you are not a candy fan, try cinnamon, all-spice or nutmeg, or add almond flavoring to the cocoa.
5 Facts About Chocolates That Will Blow Your Mind
Packed with flavor
Chocolate contains over 600 flavor compounds, which give it a distinct aroma.
There are four different types of chocolates
These are dark, milk, white, and blond chocolates.
White chocolate isn’t technically chocolate
White chocolate contains cocoa butter but doesn't contain any cocoa powder or cocoa solids. T
Powerful industry
The chocolate industry is worth over $75 billion per year globally.
High caffeine content
Dark chocolate contains 12 milligrams of caffeine per ounce and milk chocolate contains 9 milligrams, which is higher than espresso’s caffeine count.
Why We Love National Cocoa Day
Cocoa is delicious
In all cultures, there is some form of a traditional cocoa recipe, and there are millions of cocoa lovers worldwide.
A day to experiment
National Cocoa Day is also about experimenting with your hot cocoa. Try different toppings, or even come up with new cocoa recipes.
It has a rich history
Cocoa and chocolate have a rich history. From being objects of worship to mass-produced consumer sweets, cocoa beans have come a long way. Celebrate this by sharing something on social media and collecting cocoa trivia to sound like an expert.
National Cocoa Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | December 13 | Sunday |
| 2027 | December 13 | Monday |
| 2028 | December 13 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | December 13 | Thursday |
| 2030 | December 13 | Friday |
Social Media Tips for National Cocoa Day
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