National Cookie Day

History & origins

National Cookie Day is listed in this site's 2026 calendar for December 4. Informal "national days" are often promoted by communities, trade groups, and brands; origins and official proclamations vary by country and year. Bake, share, and enjoy the sweetest day of the year on National Cookie Day! From classic chocolate chip to exotic international varieties, cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Because many such observances are cultural or promotional rather than statutory, treat dates as a planning guide and confirm local events separately.

Why it matters

Observing National Cookie Day gives people a shared anchor to explore food themes—cookies, baking, December, dessert, sweet—and to coordinate learning, gatherings, or giving around that focus. Bake, share, and enjoy the sweetest day of the year on National Cookie Day! From classic chocolate chip to exotic international varieties, cookies are the perfect treat for any occasion. Discover new recipes, learn baking techniques, and explore the endless possibilities of cookie decorating. Whether you're a baking novice or a cookie connoisseur, this day is all about celebrating the joy of homemade treats.

How to celebrate

Bake your favorite cookies from scratch or try a new recipe. Host a cookie exchange party where everyone brings different types of cookies to share. Visit a local bakery to sample their cookie varieties. Learn cookie decorating techniques with royal icing or fondant. Share your cookie creations on social media with #NationalCookieDay and tag friends to join the celebration.

Facts

• The word 'cookie' comes from the Dutch word 'koekje', meaning 'little cake'
• Americans consume over 2 billion cookies per year
• The first chocolate chip cookie was invented by Ruth Wakefield in 1938
• Fortune cookies were actually invented in California, not China
• The largest cookie ever made weighed 40,000 pounds and was 102 feet in diameter

Upcoming dates

• Friday, December 4, 2026
• Saturday, December 4, 2027
• Monday, December 4, 2028
• Tuesday, December 4, 2029
• Wednesday, December 4, 2030