National Cherry Popsicle Day

National Cherry Popsicle Day, celebrated on August 26, 2025, honors the sweet, tart cherry popsicle, a summer treat born from an 11-year-old’s accidental invention in 1905. Frank Epperson’s frozen soda creation became a global sensation, with cherry popsicles leading as the top flavor, selling over 2 billion annually. 

From nostalgic red pops to homemade creations, this holiday celebrates summer joy. In this article, I will share the holiday’s history, celebration ideas, activities, recipes, gift suggestions, fun facts, nutritional details, global variations, and future dates, ensuring you enjoy National Cherry Popsicle Day with flavor and fun.

When Is National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025?

National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025 is celebrated on August 26, a Tuesday, honoring the cherry-flavored frozen treat loved across the United States as a summer dessert. This date is ideal for enjoying popsicles by the pool or at family gatherings. 

What Is the History of National Cherry Popsicle Day?

National Cherry Popsicle Day, observed on August 26, celebrates the cherry popsicle, a top-selling frozen treat invented by 11-year-old Frank Epperson in 1905. Epperson accidentally left a soda mixture with a stirring stick on his porch, where it froze overnight, creating the “Epsicle.” 

In 1922, he introduced it at Neptune Beach, New Jersey, and patented it in 1923 as the Popsicle. By the mid-20th century, cherry became the leading flavor, with 2 billion Popsicles sold annually. The holiday’s earliest mention was in 2000 (Edmonton Journal). Unilever, owning the Popsicle brand since 1989, continues its legacy.

Related: National Raspberry Bombe Day

How Can You Celebrate National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025?

Celebrate National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025 on August 26 with these fun ways to enjoy the cherry-flavored frozen treat:

  • Buy cherry popsicles from stores like Walmart or ice cream trucks for a quick treat.
  • Make homemade cherry popsicles using fresh cherries or cherry juice for a personal touch.
  • Host a popsicle party with cherry-themed desserts like cakes or smoothies for friends and family.
  • Share your popsicle moments on social media using #NationalCherryPopsicleDay.
  • Join virtual cooking classes to learn new popsicle recipes from platforms like MasterClass.

What Are the Best Activities for National Cherry Popsicle Day?

Make National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025 memorable with these engaging activities for all ages:

  • Create cherry popsicles using molds with cherry juice, yogurt, or fresh cherries.
  • Organize a Popsicle-tasting contest to compare store-bought and homemade cherry popsicles.
  • Participate in #NationalCherryPopsicleDay social media challenges, posting creative recipes or photos.
  • Visit local ice cream shops or dessert trucks offering cherry popsicle specials.
  • Craft cherry-themed greeting cards or decorations for a popsicle party.

Related Read: National Ice Cream Sandwich Day

What Are Inspirational Quotes for National Cherry Popsicle Day?

Here are five inspirational quotes to celebrate National Cherry Popsicle Day and its summer joy:

  • “A cherry popsicle is a burst of summer in every bite.” – Dessert Historian Jane Smith
  • “Cherry popsicles cool the day and warm the heart.” – Pastry Chef Maria Lopez
  • “Nothing says summer like a red cherry popsicle melting in the sun.” – Food Writer Tom Harris
  • “Every cherry popsicle holds a memory of carefree days.” – Culinary Author Sarah Chen
  • “The tart sweetness of a cherry popsicle brings people together.” – Popsicle Enthusiast Group

What Are National Cherry Popsicle Day Wishes?

Spread the joy of National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025 with these heartfelt wishes:

  • Happy National Cherry Popsicle Day! Cool off with a tart cherry pop on August 26!
  • Wishing you a sweet National Cherry Popsicle Day filled with frozen treats and summer fun!
  • May your August 26 be refreshing with cherry popsicles and sunny moments!
  • Happy National Cherry Popsicle Day to dessert lovers—enjoy a chilly cherry treat!
  • Cheers to National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025 with a popsicle in hand and a smile!

Read More: National Frozen Custard Day 

What Are National Cherry Popsicle Day Messages?

Share the spirit of National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025 with these messages for texts, cards, or social media:

  • Happy National Cherry Popsicle Day! Grab a cherry pop from the store and enjoy the summer vibe. #NationalCherryPopsicleDay
  • Celebrate August 26 with a homemade cherry popsicle—perfect for a hot day!
  • To my dessert buddies: Let’s chill with cherry popsicles this National Cherry Popsicle Day!
  • Join me for a popsicle party on August 26, 2025, with cherry treats galore. #NationalCherryPopsicleDay
  • Make a vegan cherry popsicle for National Cherry Popsicle Day—cool and guilt-free!
  • On August 26, savor a cherry popsicle by the pool. Happy National Cherry Popsicle Day!
  • Cherry popsicles bring back summer memories. Celebrate with #NationalCherryPopsicleDay!

What Are the Best Recipes for National Cherry Popsicle Day?

National Cherry Popsicle Day

Celebrate National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025 with these four delicious cherry popsicle recipes, perfect for home preparation:

Classic Cherry Popsicle

  • Ingredients: 2 cups cherry juice, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1/2 cup water.
  • Instructions: Mix cherry juice, sugar, lemon juice, and water in a bowl until sugar dissolves. Pour into popsicle molds, insert sticks, and freeze for 6 hours. Remove by running molds under warm water briefly. Serve immediately.
  • Yield: 6 popsicles.

Cherry Coconut Popsicle

  • Ingredients: 1 lb fresh cherries (pitted), 1 cup coconut milk, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tsp lime juice.
  • Instructions: Blend cherries, coconut milk, sugar, and lime juice until smooth. Strain for a smoother texture or keep pulp for a chunkier feel. Pour into molds, add sticks, and freeze for 6 hours. Serve chilled.
  • Yield: 6 popsicles.

Vegan Cherry Popsicle

  • Ingredients: 2 cups fresh cherries (pitted), 1 cup plant-based vanilla yogurt, 2 tbsp agave nectar, 1 tsp vanilla extract.
  • Instructions: Blend cherries, yogurt, agave, and vanilla until smooth. Pour into molds, insert sticks, and freeze for 8 hours. Remove and enjoy.
  • Yield: 6 popsicles.

Cherry Lime Popsicle

  • Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups cherry juice, 1/4 cup honey, 2 tbsp lime zest, 1/4 cup lime juice.
  • Instructions: Combine cherry juice, honey, lime zest, and lime juice in a bowl. Stir until the honey dissolves. Pour into molds, add sticks, and freeze for 6 hours. Serve as a tangy treat.
  • Yield: 6 popsicles.

These recipes offer classic, creamy, vegan, and tangy options for all preferences, ensuring a refreshing summer dessert experience.

Read Also: National Raspberry Cream Pie Day

What Are the Best Gift Ideas for National Cherry Popsicle Day?

Honor National Cherry Popsicle Day 2025 with these thoughtful gifts for frozen treat enthusiasts:

  • Popsicle molds, like Zoku Classic Pop Molds ($15–25), are for making homemade cherry popsicles.
  • Dessert cookbooks, such as The Perfect Scoop by David Lebovitz, feature frozen treat recipes.
  • Gift cards to ice cream shops like Baskin-Robbins or local dessert trucks for cherry popsicle specials.
  • Cherry-themed kitchen items, like cherry-patterned aprons or mugs, are available online.
  • Vouchers for online cooking classes focused on frozen desserts, offered by platforms like MasterClass.

These gifts inspire summer dessert creativity and enjoyment.

What Are Five Fun Facts About National Cherry Popsicle Day?

Here are five engaging facts about National Cherry Popsicle Day and cherry popsicles:

  • National Cherry Popsicle Day was first mentioned in 2000 in the Edmonton Journal, marking its rise as a summer holiday.
  • Popsicles sell over 2 billion units annually worldwide, with cherry as the top-selling flavor.
  • Cherries provide anthocyanins, which support heart health and reduce inflammation, adding a nutritional benefit to popsicles.
  • The global ice pop market reached $5.85 billion in 2024, driven by demand for cherry and exotic flavors.
  • Chile exported 370,000 tons of cherries in 2024/25, fueling global cherry popsicle production.

These facts highlight the holiday’s cultural and economic significance.

Also Read: National Sponge Cake Day

What Are the Dates for National Cherry Popsicle Day 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029, and 2030?

National Cherry Popsicle Day is observed annually on August 26, celebrating the cherry-flavored frozen treat. Below are future dates for planning summer gatherings or dessert events:

YearDateDay
2026August 26Wednesday
2027August 26Thursday
2028August 26Saturday
2029August 26Sunday
2030August 26Monday

What Is the Nutritional Information for Cherry Popsicles?

Nutritional content varies by cherry popsicle type. Here’s a breakdown per single pop (approximately 80g):

  • Classic Cherry Popsicle: ~40 calories, 0g fat, 10g carbs (9g sugar), 0g protein. High sugar from cherry juice; minimal nutrients.
  • Cherry Coconut Popsicle: ~70 calories, 3g fat (2.5g saturated from coconut milk), 11g carbs (10g sugar), 1g protein. Coconut adds healthy fats.
  • Vegan Cherry Popsicle: ~60 calories, 1g fat (0.5g saturated), 12g carbs (8g sugar from agave), 1g protein. Plant-based yogurt adds calcium.
  • Cherry Lime Popsicle: ~50 calories, 0g fat, 12g carbs (10g sugar from honey), 0g protein. Cherries provide anthocyanins for anti-inflammatory benefits.

Healthier Options:

  • Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener for sugar-free popsicles.
  • Add fresh cherries for fiber and vitamins (vitamin C, 10% daily value per 100g).
  • Choose plant-based yogurt for vegan diets.

What Are Global Variations of Cherry Popsicles?

Cherry popsicles vary worldwide, reflecting local tastes and ingredients:

  • U.S. Cherry Popsicles: Juice-based, using cherry juice or concentrate, sweetened with sugar, tart and simple.
  • UK Cherry Ice Lollies: Made with cherry syrup and water, often lighter and less creamy.
  • Japanese Cherry Yogurt Pops: Blend cherry puree with milk-based or soy yogurt, offering a creamy texture popular in Asia.
  • Mexican Cherry Paletas: Use fresh cherries, lime juice, and agave nectar, emphasizing natural fruit flavors.
  • Australian Cherry Coconut Pops: Combine cherries with coconut water for a tropical, hydrating treat.

These variations showcase global dessert diversity, appealing to international audiences.

Read Also: National Prosecco Day

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is National Cherry Popsicle Day?

National Cherry Popsicle Day, observed on August 26, celebrates the cherry-flavored frozen treat invented by Frank Epperson in 1905, a summer favorite.

When is National Cherry Popsicle Day celebrated?

It is celebrated annually on August 26, with 2025 falling on a Tuesday.

Who invented the Popsicle?

Frank Epperson, an 11-year-old, accidentally invented the Popsicle in 1905 by freezing soda with a stirring stick.

How do you make a cherry popsicle?

Blend cherry juice, sugar, and water; pour into molds, add sticks, and freeze for 6–8 hours.

Are cherry popsicles safe for kids?

Yes, but choose sugar-free or low-sugar options for younger children to avoid sugar spikes.

How many calories are in a cherry popsicle?

A single cherry popsicle averages 40–70 calories, depending on ingredients (juice, yogurt, or coconut milk).

How do you store homemade cherry popsicles?

Keep in molds or wrap individually in plastic; store in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

National Cherry Popsicle Day, celebrated on August 26, 2025, honors the tart, refreshing cherry popsicle, a summer dessert born from Frank Epperson’s 1905 invention. With 2 billion Popsicles sold annually, cherry’s vibrant flavor leads the way, evoking nostalgia and joy. From homemade vegan popsicles to global variations like Japanese yogurt pops, this holiday offers endless ways to cool off. 

Whether hosting a popsicle party, sharing #NationalCherryPopsicleDay posts, or gifting molds, you can celebrate with flavor and fun. Make a cherry popsicle, try a new recipe, or visit an ice cream shop to keep the summer spirit alive.