National Jelly Bean Day – April 22, 2024

U.S.

Timeline
Importance
Celebrate

We’re all for cutting back on sugar — but let’s start tomorrow. It’s National Jelly Bean Day, and we still have plenty of Easter candy on hand.

Did jelly beans really exist during the Civil War? It’s possible, but they first appeared in the popular press after the turn of the century. We love jelly beans for their no apologies take on instant gratification.

Sugar. Corn syrup. Starch.

And lots of color. Their look is part of the appeal, don’t you think? And yes, their egg-like shape make them the perfect Easter treat. Grab a handful on April 22.

Your dentist never has to know.

National Jelly Bean Day timeline

1800s

Send in the Jelly Beans

Boston-based confectioner William Schrafft encourages sending jelly beans to soldiers fighting in the Civil War.

1920

Are You a Man or a Jellybean?

F. Scott Fitzgerald pens the short story “The Jelly-Bean” about an aimless loafer named Jim Powell.

1960s

Jelly Bean Patch?

President Ronald Reagan is a fan of jelly beans, and binges on them in an attempt to quit smoking.

2000s

Bertie Bott’s Every Flavor Beans

The success of the “Harry Potter” movies inspires the production of bizarre flavors of jelly beans.

National Jelly Bean Day Activities

Host a jelly party
Invite your friends and family over for a fun, jelly-filled evening. You might need some appetizers too.
Bake a treat
There are so many baked goods that call for the inclusion of jelly beans. Co-workers tend to love these.
Create jelly bean art
Have you ever seen artists recreate popular art pieces with pasta? Jelly beans can work too. They also add a fun pop of color to any room.

Why We Love National Jelly Bean Day

Playful treats
Go ahead and play with your food today. You can throw them in the air catch them in your mouth, or toss some to your friends.
Endless flavors
The original flavors have grown from cherry, apple, lemon, and blueberry, to some unique and extraordinary ones like popcorn, sizzling cinnamon, strawberry cheesecake, and many more.
Versatility
Many of us add them to recipes for cakes and cookies — or use them to create beautiful pieces of art, or when crafting with family and friends.