- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- BakingFood
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every April 26
- Holiday emoji:
- 🥨
National Pretzel Day arrives every April 26, inviting us to celebrate the ancient, twisted snack with a fascinating history. Originating in the Catholic Church around the 7th century, pretzels were once prayer-shaped treats made with water, flour, and salt. Get ready to enjoy a salty, savory, or sweet pretzel today!
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Expected National Pretzel Day Deals
While we await official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows National Pretzel Day is a prime time for freebies and discounts. In past years, chains like Auntie Anne’s have offered free pretzels to loyalty members, while Wetzel’s Pretzels often runs buy-one-get-one deals. Keep an eye on local bakeries and pretzel shops like Philly Pretzel Factory for special offers. Grocery brands such as Snyder’s of Hanover and Utz might feature sales on their bagged varieties, and even convenience stores like Wawa could join the fun. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as April 26 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Pretzel Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalPretzelDay. Share your favorite pretzel creations, from classic soft pretzels to gourmet toppings.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalPretzelDay. Film a quick video showing your pretzel-making skills or a taste test of different pretzel brands.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalPretzelDay. Share your local pretzel shop recommendations or a fun pretzel fact.
National Pretzel Day Hero
The Medieval Monks
History of National Pretzel Day
The origin of the pretzel dates back to 7th-century Catholic churches. The rules of abstinence and fasting during Lent were much stricter than today, forbidding Catholics from consuming dairy, eggs, or meat. This led to the creation of pretzels, which were the perfect food to eat without violating any rules, and they were easy to prepare.
The unique knotted shape of pretzels became a symbol of union in Switzerland in 1614, with weddings of royal couples featuring pretzels to represent the bond of matrimony. According to legend, this may also be where we get the phrase “tying the knot” from. The shape of a pretzel is also thought to signify joined hands during prayer.
Today, pretzels are enjoyed as a snack and are a popular item on concession stands at carnivals, charcuterie boards, and all types of events. Hard pretzels are a relatively new invention, considered to have been first created in Pennsylvania by German immigrants.
For this reason, pretzels are so beloved to Pennsylvanians, that the Governor of Pennsylvania Ed Rendell established April 26 as National Pretzel Day in 2003. Also, Pennsylvanians eat more pretzels per capita than any other state in the United States.
National Pretzel Day timeline
Many believe that the pretzel was created by an Italian monk, who’d reward children for learning their prayers.
The intertwined loops of the pretzel symbolize love in some parts of the world.
Swiss and German immigrants introduce the pretzel to North America.
The first proper pretzel bakery opens in Lititz, Pennsylvania.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Pretzel Day
Local businesses can celebrate National Pretzel Day by offering special discounts or unique pretzel-themed menu items. Bakeries could host pretzel-making workshops, while restaurants might feature pretzel buns or pretzel-crusted dishes. Bars could pair craft beers with gourmet soft pretzels and specialty dips. Consider a ‘pretzel scavenger hunt’ for families, or partner with a local food bank to donate a portion of pretzel sales, engaging the community in a fun and meaningful way.
Pretzels By The Numbers
$550 million — the annual worth of the pretzel industry in the United States.
1.5 pounds — the average consumption of pretzels by the average American per year.
1993 — the year when Philadelphia opened a privately run Pretzel Museum.
1850 — The year when hard pretzels were first introduced in the United States.
12 — the number of times more that pretzels are consumed by the average Philadelphian as opposed to the national average.
National Pretzel Day FAQs
When is National Pretzel Day?
In 2027, National Pretzel Day will be observed on Monday, April 26, kicking off the work week with a delicious reason to celebrate. Look for special deals and promotions to brighten your Monday.
How many pretzels are consumed annually in the U.S.?
The pretzel industry in the U.S. continues to thrive, with annual sales consistently exceeding a billion dollars. This robust market reflects pretzels’ status as a beloved snack, from ballpark favorites to gourmet varieties.
What is the history of pretzels?
The pretzel’s journey began as a Lenten bread, made from simple ingredients (flour, water, salt) suitable for fasting. Monks would give them to children as rewards for learning prayers, making them a treat with a spiritual connection.
What is the difference between hard and soft pretzels?
Hard pretzels are baked until crisp and dry, designed for longer shelf life and convenient snacking. They come in various shapes and sizes, from sticks to traditional twists, and are a staple in many pantries.
National Pretzel Day Activities
Go Bavarian
Did you need an excuse to head to your nearest 'biergarten'? You have one now. What better way to showcase pretzels, than with some good mustard, beer, and friends?
Pretzel crawl
Chances are, there are many restaurants and bars in your area showing off their pretzel prowess. Why not make a night of it and test out the local options?
DIY(P)
Watch one of the many YouTube videos and make your own pretzels. You'll be left feeling very satisfied at the end.
5 Irresistible Facts About Pretzels
Their original name
Pretzels were originally named ‘bracellae’ after the Latin term for “little arms.”
The best of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania produces 80% of the country’s hard and soft pretzels.
A month-long celebration
October is celebrated as National Pretzel Month.
The first pretzel bakery
Julius Sturgis opened the first commercial pretzel bakery in Lititz, Pennsylvania, in 1861.
Pretzel accident
President George W. Bush was eating a pretzel in the White House when he choked and lost consciousness in 2002.
Why We Love National Pretzel Day
One word: Carbs
There's something oh-so satisfying about the carb-y insides, the toothsome exterior crust, the crunchy salt on top. Pretzels bring together a bunch of taste sensations that make it a very enjoyable snack—anytime of day.
Two words: Dipping sauce
Pretzels are just fun to eat. Hard or soft, and on their own. But they really go to the next level when you pair them with things like peanut butter, cheese sauce, mustard, and chocolate.
They're cheap, too
Most pretzels, wherever you are, don't cost more than $5. Whether you're at the park, office, or mall — this handy snack can power you through the day.
Social Media Tips for National Pretzel Day
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