National Licorice Day – Apr. 12, 2027

National Licorice Day
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CandyHealthHealthy Food
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United States
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Every April 12
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National Licorice Day on April 12 celebrates the distinct flavor and versatility of licorice in all its forms. From classic black twists to red ropes and gourmet confections, there are countless ways to enjoy this unique treat. Stock up on your favorite varieties, try a new recipe, or share licorice with friends to mark the occasion!

Want to sponsor National Licorice Day? Learn how

Expected National Licorice Day Deals

While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that candy retailers and specialty shops often roll out sweet deals for National Licorice Day. Look for discounts on bulk licorice at stores like CandyStore.com and Dylan’s Candy Bar. Brands such as Haribo, Twizzlers, and Red Vines may offer special bundles or limited-edition flavors. Gourmet candy makers like Lakrids by Bülow could feature tasting events or online promotions. Don’t forget local candy stores, which often have unique licorice assortments. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as April 12 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Licorice Day

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalLicoriceDay. Share vibrant photos of your favorite licorice treats, creative recipes, or even licorice-inspired art.

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalLicoriceDay. Film taste tests, DIY licorice candy creations, or fun facts about licorice’s history and health benefits.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalLicoriceDay. Share your family’s favorite licorice memories or host a virtual licorice tasting party with friends.

Social Media Tips for National Licorice Day

Individuals

Indulge in your favorite licorice candies, whether it's classic black licorice, red vines, or gourmet varieties. Experiment with licorice in baking or cocktails for a unique flavor twist.

Creators

Produce content showcasing the versatility of licorice. This could include a 'licorice recipe showdown,' a review of international licorice brands, or a video on the surprising uses of licorice root.

Brands

Launch limited-time licorice-flavored products or offer special discounts on existing licorice lines. Engage customers with a 'Share Your Favorite Licorice' photo contest using a unique hashtag.

Top Brands for National Licorice Day

  1. Twizzlers

    Produced by The Hershey Company, Twizzlers are a popular brand of licorice-type candy, known for their chewy texture and variety of fruit flavors, especially strawberry (often called 'red licorice'). The brand was first introduced in 1929.

  2. Red Vines

    Manufactured by the American Licorice Company since 1914, Red Vines are a classic American candy. These soft, chewy twists are famous for their distinct red licorice flavor, which is often a raspberry or cherry profile rather than traditional black licorice.

  3. Haribo

    Founded in 1920 in Germany by Hans Riegel Sr., Haribo is a renowned confectionery company. While famous for its gummy bears, Haribo also produces a wide range of licorice candies, including popular black licorice wheels and various licorice mixes.

  4. Lakrids by Bülow

    A Danish gourmet licorice company founded in 2007 by Johan Bülow, Lakrids by Bülow specializes in high-quality, handcrafted licorice. They are known for their innovative flavor combinations, often coating licorice in chocolate and various spices.

  5. Panda Licorice

    Originating from Finland in 1927, Panda Licorice is celebrated for its soft, chewy, and naturally flavored black licorice. The brand uses traditional methods and high-quality ingredients, making it a favorite among licorice purists worldwide.

  6. CandyStore.com

    An online bulk candy retailer, CandyStore.com offers a vast selection of confectionery, including an extensive range of licorice candies from various brands and origins. They are a go-to source for enthusiasts looking to buy large quantities or specialty licorice.

  7. Dylan's Candy Bar

    Founded in 2001 by Dylan Lauren, Dylan's Candy Bar is a luxury candy emporium known for its vibrant, imaginative stores and wide array of sweets. They feature a curated selection of licorice, from classic varieties to unique international finds.

National Licorice Day Hero

George S. Vry

George S. Vry was a prominent figure in the American licorice industry, known for his work with the MacAndrews & Forbes Company, a major licorice manufacturer. His contributions to processing and popularizing licorice products helped shape the confectionery landscape in the early to mid-20th century, bringing the distinct flavor to a wider audience.

History of National Licorice Day

Licorice is extracted from the licorice plant and can be used in numerous innovative ways. Licorice is used for making candy, for flavoring drinks and teas, and some cultures even claim that licorice has special medicinal properties.

Ancient Egyptians would use licorice as a healing food ingredient. A great amount of licorice was found in the tomb of King Tut! Hieroglyphics from Ancient Egypt show that licorice was enjoyed as a drink. Licorice was popular among the royals — Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Napoleon Bonaparte were recorded as using licorice for their health benefits. It would not be until the 17th century that records indicate that licorice was being made into candy in Holland. From there, sailors carried this treat with them to other countries in Europe and eventually all over the world. Today, licorice candy is produced not only in Europe but also in Australia and the Americas. Licorice is now being enjoyed globally.

Created by Licorice International in 2004, National Licorice Day celebrates the rich history and unique flavor of licorice. Even though black licorice is the original, licorice is available in many flavors and colors. Those who do not prefer the special taste of black licorice can instead have the choice to enjoy different varieties of licorice. Consumed by people across the globe, licorice is a delectable treat with a distinctive flavor. It is used as an ingredient in many candies. National Licorice Day is the perfect day to explore different flavors and to try new licorice recipes.

National Licorice Day timeline

2300 B.C.
The Origin

Licorice originates during this time period.

400 B.C.
Licorice is Used as Medicine

Licorice is used in cold medications due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

1902
Hogh’s Licorice Factory is founded

The first products made in the factory are licorice shapes, salt pastilles, eucalyptus pastilles, and colored shapes with fruit flavor.

1933
Ga-Jol

Ga-Jol is launched as salt pastille and is one of the oldest licorice products still in use.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Licorice Day

Local businesses can celebrate National Licorice Day by offering themed promotions and products. Bakeries could create licorice-flavored desserts like licorice biscotti or macarons. Candy shops can feature special displays and discounts on all licorice varieties, encouraging customers to explore different types. Restaurants might introduce a unique licorice-infused cocktail or a savory dish with a hint of licorice root, like a fennel and licorice-crusted salmon. Consider partnering with a local candy supplier to offer a tasting event.

National Licorice Day FAQs

When is National Licorice Day?

In 2027, National Licorice Day is observed on Monday, April 12, kicking off the week with a delightful excuse to explore the diverse world of licorice. Plan your licorice adventures accordingly!

What are the different types of licorice?

Beyond the classic black and red, the world of licorice is vast, encompassing a spectrum of textures and flavors. You can find chewy ropes, hard candies, jelly beans, and even licorice-flavored chocolates. Each type offers a unique experience, from intensely herbal to subtly sweet or surprisingly salty.

Is licorice good for you?

While licorice root offers potential health benefits, it’s important to distinguish between the medicinal herb and confectionery. Excessive consumption of black licorice, especially, can lead to health concerns due to glycyrrhizin. Enjoy licorice candies as a treat, and consult a doctor for medicinal uses of licorice root.

What is the origin of licorice?

The licorice plant, *Glycyrrhiza glabra*, is native to southern Europe and Asia. Its sweet roots were prized by civilizations for millennia, not just for flavor but for perceived healing properties. The transformation from a herbal remedy to a beloved candy highlights its enduring appeal and adaptability across cultures.

How To Celebrate National Licorice Day

  1. Try a new type of licorice

    In addition to the standard flavors of licorice, such as black, try a new type of licorice on National Licorice Day. Some interesting flavors are strawberry, cherry, and lemon.

  2. Share licorice with friends and family

    A great way to share the enjoyment of National Licorice Day is by giving licorice as a gift to friends and family. Take some to work to share with coworkers.

  3. Make licorice tea

    Relax after a long day with a steaming cup of licorice tea on National Licorice Day. Licorice tea is known to have calming effects.

5 Facts About Licorice That Will Blow Your Mind

  1. Glycyrrhizin gives licorice its sweet flavor

    Glycyrrhizin is 50 times sweeter than sugar.

  2. There are many names for licorice

    These are black sugar, licorice root, sweetroot, and sweet wood.

  3. Licorice has been used for medicinal purposes

    Licorice can be used to treat sore throats, ulcers, and to promote adrenal gland function.

  4. Licorice flavor is not just used for candies

    Licorice is also used in soft drinks and herbal teas.

  5. Popular figures in history have enjoyed licorice

    Napoleon Bonaparte loved licorice. He ate so much licorice that his teeth turned black.

Why We Love National Licorice Day

  1. Licorice is a beloved candy flavor

    Licorice has been used as a flavoring agent due to its incredible taste. National Licorice Day celebrates the flavor that has remained consistently popular.

  2. You can celebrate this day with your friends

    National Licorice Day becomes more fun when you share licorice candies with your friends and coworkers. This day brings us closer together.

  3. You can experiment with flavors

    National Licorice Day is the perfect day to experiment with different flavors of licorice and introduce yourself to something new.

National Licorice Day dates

Year Date Day
2027 April 12 Monday
2028 April 12 Wednesday
2029 April 12 Thursday
2030 April 12 Friday
2031 April 12 Saturday