January 3 National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day: Everything You Need to Know

Last updated: January 3, 2026

Quick Answer: January 3 National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is an annual food holiday celebrated every January 3 in the United States. It honors the beloved confection of cherries coated in chocolate, whether milk, dark, or white, and encourages Americans to eat, gift, and make chocolate covered cherries on that day. In 2026, the holiday falls on Saturday, January 3.

Key Takeaways

• National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is observed on January 3 each year in the United States.
• The holiday celebrates both chocolate covered cherries and cherry cordials, which feature a liquid sugar center surrounding the fruit.
• Chocolate covered cherries have roots going back to the late 1800s in Europe, with American commercial production accelerating in the early 20th century.
• Cella’s, founded in 1864, is one of the most recognized brands associated with chocolate covered cherry cordials in the United States.
• You can celebrate by eating, gifting, or making homemade chocolate covered cherries on Jan 3.
• The hashtag #ChocolateCoveredCherryDay is widely used on social media to mark the occasion.
• January 3 also shares the national day calendar with a handful of other observances, but National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is its signature sweet food holiday.
• The next occurrence after 2026 falls on January 2027, giving fans another year to plan ahead.

What Is National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day?

National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is an unofficial but widely recognized food holiday observed every January 3 in the United States. It dedicates an entire day to celebrating one of America’s most iconic candy treats: fresh or preserved cherries fully covered in chocolate [1]. The holiday appears on the national day calendar alongside dozens of other food observances that run from january february through october november december each year [6].

The day encourages people to enjoy chocolate covered cherries in any form, from store-bought boxes of cordials to homemade dipped fruit. It also serves as a sweet bridge between the December holiday season and the quieter stretch of january february and february march on the calendar.

Why it matters:

• It spotlights a confection enjoyed by millions of Americans annually.
• It gives chocolate and cherry lovers a specific day to indulge guilt-free.
• It drives gifting, recipe sharing, and social media engagement under the tag #ChocolateCoveredCherryDay.

History of National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

The history of chocolate covered cherries as a confection predates the national day itself by well over a century [5]. Chocolate-covered fruit became popular in Europe during the 1800s, and by the early 20th century American candy makers had turned chocolate covered cherries into a commercial staple [5].

Key milestones in the history of this treat and its holiday include:

• 1864: Cella’s Confections was established, eventually becoming one of the most famous producers of chocolate covered cherry cordials in the United States [7].
• 1929: Gordon Moore, born January 3, shares his birthday with the holiday, a fun piece of national day calendar trivia.
• 1953 and 1957: Decades during which boxed chocolate covered cherry cordials became a mainstream American candy gift, especially during the holidays [5].
• 2009: The holiday gained broader digital recognition as food holiday tracking sites began listing January 3 National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day formally on the national day calendar [1].

The exact founder of the national day is not officially documented, which is common for many informal food holidays in the United States. What is clear is that by the time national food day tracking became popular online, January 3 was already firmly associated with this sweet treat [3].

When Is National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day and What Are the Quick Facts?

National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day falls on January 3 every year without exception [2]. Here are the quick facts:

The holiday sits at the start of january february on the calendar, making it one of the first national food days Americans can celebrate in a new year [8]. Whether you mark it today or plan ahead for january 2027, the date never changes.

What Is the Difference Between Chocolate Covered Cherries and Cordial Cherries?

Chocolate covered cherries and cherry cordials are related but distinct treats. Standard chocolate covered cherries are simply cherries dipped or enrobed in chocolate, with no liquid center [5]. Cordials, by contrast, feature a cherry surrounded by a liquid sugar or liqueur filling, all enclosed in a chocolate shell [5].

The liquid center in cordials forms through a process where sugar and an invertase enzyme break down over time after the chocolate shell is applied, creating the signature syrupy interior [5]. This process typically takes one to two weeks after production.

• Chocolate covered cherries: Solid chocolate coating, chewy or fresh cherry inside, no liquid.
• Cherry cordials: Chocolate shell, liquid sugar center, maraschino or similar cherry inside.
• Liqueur cordials: Same as above but the liquid center contains alcohol, such as brandy or kirsch.

Cella’s and other major candy brands produce cordials, while many home bakers make the simpler non-cordial version [7].

How to Make Homemade Chocolate Covered Cherries

Making chocolate covered cherries at home requires only a few ingredients and about 30 minutes of active time [4]. The basic recipe works with either fresh cherries or maraschino cherries, depending on what is available.

Basic ingredients:

• 1 pound dark or milk chocolate (chips or a bar, chopped)
• 24 maraschino cherries with stems, drained and dried thoroughly
• Optional: 1 tablespoon coconut oil to thin the chocolate for smoother coverage

Steps:

1. Pat cherries completely dry with paper towels. Any moisture will cause the chocolate to seize.
2. Melt chocolate in a double boiler or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.
3. Add coconut oil if using, and stir until smooth.
4. Hold each cherry by the stem and dip into the melted chocolate, letting excess drip off.
5. Place on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 20 to 30 minutes until set.
6. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

For liqueur cordials: Soak cherries in brandy or kirsch for 24 hours before dipping. The alcohol adds flavor and helps the center stay soft [5].

Common mistake: Skipping the drying step. Wet cherries cause chocolate to clump and peel after setting.

Can You Make Chocolate Covered Cherries Without Fresh Cherries?

Yes, chocolate covered cherries can absolutely be made without fresh cherries. Maraschino cherries are the most common substitute and are available year-round in grocery stores [4]. They are already pitted and sweetened, which makes them ideal for dipping.

Other options include:

• Frozen cherries: Thaw completely and dry thoroughly before dipping.
• Dried cherries: Produce a chewier, more intense treat; pair well with dark chocolate.
• Marzipan-filled cherry shapes: Some recipes use marzipan molded around a dried cherry for a richer, almond-flavored variation.

The marzipan version is a European-influenced twist that adds a nutty sweetness to the classic chocolate covered cherry format [9].

Best Chocolate Covered Cherry Brands and Where to Buy Them

Several well-established brands make chocolate covered cherries and cordials widely available across the United States [7]. The most recognized options include:

• Cella’s: Perhaps the most iconic American brand for chocolate covered cherry cordials, available at most major retailers and online [7].
• Queen Anne: Another long-standing brand known for milk chocolate cordial cherries, widely stocked during the holidays and in january.
• Chukar Cherries: A premium producer offering dark chocolate covered Bing cherries and other gourmet varieties [7].
• Abdallah Candies: A regional favorite in the Midwest known for handcrafted chocolates and cherry treats.

Where to buy: Most grocery chains, drugstores, and big-box retailers carry chocolate covered cherries and cordials year-round, with the widest selection appearing from october november december through january. Online retailers also ship specialty chocolates directly to consumers [7].

Are Chocolate Covered Cherries Good for You?

Chocolate covered cherries offer a mix of nutritional benefits and indulgent calories, so moderation is key [10]. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids linked to cardiovascular health, and cherries provide antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory compounds [10].

However, most commercial chocolate covered cherries and cordials also contain added sugar, saturated fat, and in the case of cordials, a significant amount of liquid sugar syrup. A single piece of a chocolate covered cherry cordial contains roughly 50 to 70 calories depending on size [3].

Bottom line: A few chocolate covered cherries on national chocolate covered cherry day are a reasonable treat. Choosing dark chocolate over milk chocolate increases the antioxidant content and reduces overall sugar per serving [10].

How to Celebrate National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

Celebrating January 3 National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day can be as simple or as elaborate as you choose [1]. The national day calendar suggests three main approaches: enjoy, gift, and make.

Enjoy Eating Chocolate Covered Cherries Pick up a box of chocolate covered cherries or cordials from a local store and treat yourself. Try comparing a milk chocolate version against a dark chocolate one to find your preference.

Gift Some Chocolate Covered Cherries A box of chocolate covered cherry cordials makes an affordable and thoughtful gift in january, especially for anyone who missed out on holiday chocolates in December. Use the hashtag #ChocolateCoveredCherryDay when you share your gift on social media [1].

Try Making Chocolate Covered Cherries Follow the homemade recipe above and share your results with friends or family. Homemade chocolates also make excellent treats to bring into the office or school on Jan 3 [4].

Other ways to celebrate:

• Host a chocolate and cherry tasting with friends.
• Bake a chocolate covered cherry cake or brownie using cherries as a filling.
• Order a specialty box from a gourmet chocolatier as a post-holiday treat for yourself.

Chocolate Covered Cherry Gift Ideas for January 3

Chocolate covered cherries are a natural gift choice for January 3 National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day because they are affordable, widely available, and universally loved [8]. Here are practical gift ideas at different price points:

• Under $15: A standard box of Cella’s or Queen Anne cordials from a grocery or drugstore.
• $15 to $40: A premium gift box from Chukar Cherries or a local chocolatier featuring dark chocolate covered Bing cherries [7].
• $40 and up: A curated chocolate and cherry gift basket including cordials, cherry jam, and artisan chocolates.
• Handmade: A batch of homemade chocolate covered cherries in a decorative tin tied with ribbon.

Pairing chocolate covered cherries with a bottle of cherry liqueur or a cherry-flavored tea makes a more complete gift for the holidays or for any sweet occasion in january or february march.

How to Store Chocolate Covered Cherries So They Don’t Go Bad

Proper storage keeps chocolate covered cherries fresh and prevents the chocolate shell from blooming (developing a white, chalky appearance) [7]. Follow these guidelines:

• Room temperature: Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight for up to two weeks if the cherries are commercially made cordials.
• Refrigerator: Homemade chocolate covered cherries should be refrigerated in an airtight container and consumed within one week [4].
• Freezer: Chocolate covered cherries can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving to prevent condensation from damaging the chocolate shell.
• Avoid humidity: Moisture is the primary enemy of chocolate. Keep chocolates away from steam, open containers of liquid, or humid environments.

Chocolate bloom (the white coating that sometimes appears) is caused by temperature fluctuations or moisture, not spoilage. Bloomed chocolate is still safe to eat but has a less appealing texture [5].

FAQ: National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day

Is today National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day?

National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is celebrated on January 3 every year in the United States. If today’s date is January 3, then yes, today is National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day. In 2026, the holiday falls on Saturday, January 3. The next occurrence after that is January 3, 2027.

What national day is on January 3?

January 3 is National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day in the United States. The national day calendar also lists a few other minor observances on Jan 3, but National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is the most widely recognized and celebrated food holiday on that date each year.

What day is National Chocolate Covered Anything Day?

National Chocolate Covered Anything Day is observed on December 16 each year in the United States. It is a broader celebration that encourages people to dip virtually any food into chocolate, from fruit and pretzels to marshmallows and cookies, making it a natural companion holiday to January 3 National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day.

What day is National Cherry Day?

National Cherry Day in the United States is celebrated on July 23 each year. It honors cherries in all forms, not just chocolate covered ones. The United Kingdom observes its own National Cherry Day on July 16. Both dates fall in the summer months when fresh cherries are at peak season, unlike the January 3 chocolate covered cherry holiday which falls in the heart of winter.

Conclusion

January 3 National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day is one of the most enjoyable food holidays on the national day calendar, arriving just when the post-December holiday lull sets in. Whether you buy a box of Cella’s cordials, dip your own cherries in dark chocolate at home, or gift a premium box to someone who deserves a sweet treat, the day offers a simple, low-effort way to celebrate.

Actionable next steps:

• Mark January 3 on your calendar now so you don’t miss it in 2026 or january 2027.
• Pick up maraschino cherries and good-quality chocolate this week and try the homemade recipe above.
• Share your chocolate covered cherries on social media using #ChocolateCoveredCherryDay to connect with other fans.
• Explore gourmet options from brands like Chukar Cherries if you want to upgrade from standard cordials this year.

The combination of chocolate and cherry has endured for well over a century because it works. National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day on Jan 3 is simply the perfect excuse to enjoy it.

References

[1] National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day – https://nationaltoday.com/national-chocolate-covered-cherry-day/ [2] dayspedia – https://dayspedia.com/us/calendar/holiday/1084/ [3] National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day – https://nationalfooddays.org/national-chocolate-covered-cherry-day/ [4] January 3 National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day – http://www.unicornlove.com/blog/2016/1/2/january-3-national-chocolate-covered-cherry-day [5] Chocolate Covered Cherry – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chocolate-covered_cherry [6] National Chocolate Days – https://www.cocoaandheart.co.uk/national-chocolate-days/ [7] National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day – https://www.chukar.com/blog/national-chocolate-covered-cherry-day [8] National Chocolate Covered Cherry Day – https://holidaytoday.org/national-chocolate-covered-cherry-day/ [9] World Chocolate Days – https://www.chocolatier.co.uk/world-chocolate-days/ [10] Chocoholics Unite For National Chocolate Holidays – https://farmflavor.com/lifestyle/chocoholics-unite-for-national-chocolate-holidays/