What is National Candy Corn Day?

National Candy Corn Day is celebrated in the United States on October 30th to honor candy corn, the iconic tri-colored Halloween treat. Known for its distinctive yellow, orange, and white stripes, candy corn has become a nostalgic symbol of fall and Halloween festivities. The treat was first made in the 1880s and is still enjoyed today, sparking both love and debate among candy enthusiasts due to its unique texture and flavor.

This day gives candy lovers a chance to celebrate the history and tradition of candy corn, indulge in the treat, and enjoy the Halloween spirit just one day before Halloween night.

History and Origins

Candy corn was created in the 1880s by George Renninger, an employee at the Wunderle Candy Company in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Originally called “chicken feed” because of its resemblance to animal feed, the candy became popular in rural America for its agricultural look and colors. Later, the Goelitz Confectionery Company (now known as Jelly Belly) began mass-producing candy corn, and it quickly became a seasonal favorite.

Since then, candy corn has become a Halloween staple, though it was initially available from spring to fall. National Candy Corn Day was likely established by candy companies or Halloween enthusiasts to celebrate this unique treat, which has become both a beloved and divisive Halloween classic.

Who Celebrates National Candy Corn Day?

• Candy Lovers: Fans of candy corn celebrate by indulging in the treat, whether by itself or as part of Halloween-themed recipes.
• Halloween Enthusiasts: For those who enjoy Halloween, Candy Corn Day is another way to enjoy the season’s flavors and decorations.
• Bakers and Cooks: Many people enjoy using candy corn as an ingredient or decoration for Halloween treats, including cookies, cakes, and cupcakes.
• Candy Manufacturers and Shops: Candy stores and manufacturers often promote candy corn sales and offer special discounts or displays in honor of the day.
• Schools and Families: Parents, teachers, and kids celebrate by incorporating candy corn into Halloween parties, crafts, or festive treats.

Slogans and Themes

National Candy Corn Day centers around themes of nostalgia, Halloween spirit, and sweet indulgence. Common slogans include “Fall’s Favorite Treat”, “Celebrate Sweet Traditions”, and “Candy Corn Season is Here”. These themes evoke the classic Halloween feeling that candy corn represents and highlight its place in fall festivities.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

• Colors:
  • Yellow, Orange, and White: The traditional colors of candy corn represent the colors of the harvest and fall.
  • Black and Purple: Common Halloween colors used alongside candy corn for decorations and themes.
  • Gold: Often used to highlight the nostalgia and “golden age” appeal of traditional candy.
• Symbols:
  • Candy Corn Kernel: The classic shape and colors of candy corn are instantly recognizable and associated with Halloween.
  • Pumpkin: Often paired with candy corn, representing autumn and the Halloween season.
  • Cauldron or Candy Bowl: Symbolizes trick-or-treating and the abundance of Halloween candy.
• Patterns:
  • Tri-Color Stripes: Reflect the colors and layers of candy corn in decorations and themed treats.
  • Polka Dots: Used alongside candy corn designs to create festive, whimsical looks.
  • Halloween-Themed Prints: Black cats, bats, and witches add to the candy corn festivities.

Most Used Hashtags

• #NationalCandyCornDay
• #CandyCorn
• #HalloweenTreats
• #LoveItOrHateIt
• #FallFlavors

How to Celebrate National Candy Corn Day

• Enjoy Some Candy Corn: Whether you love it or find it quirky, try some candy corn to celebrate the day! Some like to eat it by the layer, while others mix it with nuts or other candies.
• Bake Halloween Treats: Use candy corn in baking, whether as a topping for cupcakes, cookies, or to create candy corn-themed desserts.
• Host a Halloween Party: Incorporate candy corn into decorations, party favors, or even use it in fun games and activities for a Halloween-themed get-together.
• Create Candy Corn Crafts: Use candy corn colors in DIY projects, or make decorations using real or fake candy corn for a festive touch.
• Share on Social Media: Join the online debate by sharing your favorite candy corn creations or posting with the hashtag #NationalCandyCornDay.

Why is National Candy Corn Day Important?

National Candy Corn Day celebrates a treat that has become a symbol of Halloween and autumn in America. Candy corn connects generations through its long-standing place in Halloween traditions, evoking memories of childhood trick-or-treating and family gatherings. Despite being a polarizing candy, candy corn remains a beloved part of Halloween’s sweet legacy.

This day invites everyone to enjoy the fun, nostalgia, and unique taste of candy corn, adding excitement to the Halloween season. Whether it’s through eating, decorating, or crafting, National Candy Corn Day is a chance to celebrate the sweetness of fall and one of its most iconic treats.