Last updated: July 15, 2026
Quick Answer: July 15 National Gummy Worm Day is an annual unofficial American food holiday celebrated every July 15 in honor of the gummy worm candy first created by the German confectionery brand Trolli in 1981. The date is not a public holiday, but it is widely observed by candy brands, retailers, schools, and fans across the United States through eating, gifting, and social media activities. [1][2]
Key Takeaways
- July 15 National Gummy Worm Day falls on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, and is fixed to that calendar date every year.
- The holiday traces back to Trolli’s invention of the gummy worm on July 15, 1981, making 2026 the 45th anniversary of the candy itself.
- It is an unofficial, informal food holiday with no government recognition, but it has broad cultural and industry support. [1]
- Most major gummy worm brands, including Trolli, Haribo, Black Forest, and Albanese, run promotions around July 15.
- Standard gummy worms contain gelatin, making them non-vegan, but several plant-based alternatives now exist.
- A single serving of gummy worms (about 10 pieces or 43 g) typically contains roughly 130 to 150 calories, depending on the brand.
- Homemade gummy worms require only four ingredients and silicone molds, making them an accessible activity for families.
- Social media hashtags like #GummyWormDay and #NationalGummyWormDay see a spike in posts each July 15.
What Is National Gummy Worm Day?
National Gummy Worm Day is an informal American food holiday dedicated to celebrating gummy worm candy. Observed every July 15, it gives candy lovers, retailers, and brands a recognized occasion to enjoy, share, and promote one of the best-selling gummy candy formats in the United States. [1][2]
The holiday is not federally recognized and carries no legal status. Its authority comes entirely from cultural adoption: candy companies promote it, food bloggers cover it, and millions of people use it as an excuse to buy a bag of their favorite fruit-flavored, squiggly sweets. [1]
Who it is for: Anyone who enjoys candy. The day is especially popular with children, parents planning classroom activities, candy retailers running promotions, and food content creators looking for a timely hook.
Who it is not for: Anyone expecting discounts or events at every store. Participation varies widely by retailer and region.
When Did National Gummy Worm Day Start?
National Gummy Worm Day is linked to July 15, 1981, the date Trolli, a German confectionery company, first introduced gummy worms to the market. The holiday appears to have gained traction as an informal observance in the early 2010s, promoted by candy industry associations and fan communities. [2][9]
The broader gummy candy story starts earlier. Hans Riegel of Haribo introduced gummy bears in Germany in 1922. Trolli, looking to capitalize on the gummy candy trend, created a longer, dual-colored, dual-flavored worm shape roughly 60 years later. Some sources note that a U.S. candy industry association formally promoted July 15 as a recurring celebration date, anchoring the holiday to that original launch. [2]
Key timeline:
- 1922: Haribo introduces gummy bears in Germany.
- 1981 (July 15): Trolli launches gummy worms, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of gummy candy.
- Early 2010s: July 15 National Gummy Worm Day gains traction online and in U.S. candy marketing.
- 2024: Ferrara USA (Trolli’s U.S. marketer) publicly highlights the holiday, reinforcing the brand connection. [2][9]
Why Is July 15 Gummy Worm Day?
July 15 was chosen because it is the date Trolli officially launched gummy worms in 1981. Tying the holiday to a product launch anniversary gave it a concrete historical anchor, which is common practice for unofficial food holidays. [9]
Some sources also note that Trolli timed its 1981 launch to coincide with the 60th anniversary of gummy bears, adding symbolic weight to the date. That dual connection, a product birthday and a broader candy milestone, made July 15 a natural candidate for an annual celebration. [2]
“Unofficial food holidays almost always trace back to a brand launch, a regional tradition, or an industry association campaign. July 15 National Gummy Worm Day checks the first two boxes clearly.”
How to Celebrate Gummy Worm Day in 2026
Celebrating July 15 National Gummy Worm Day does not require elaborate planning. The most popular approaches range from simply buying a bag of gummy worms to hosting themed parties or doing candy-based activities with kids. [2][7]
Simple ways to celebrate:
- Buy a bag of your favorite gummy worm brand and share it with coworkers, classmates, or family.
- Set up a gummy worm tasting station with multiple brands side by side.
- Use gummy worms as cake or cupcake decorations (the “dirt cup” dessert, made with chocolate pudding and crushed Oreos, is a classic).
- Host a gummy worm relay race or candy-themed game for kids.
- Post a photo or short video to social media using #GummyWormDay or #NationalGummyWormDay.
- Make homemade gummy worms (see the recipe section below).
If you enjoy other candy-themed food holidays, check out the guide to April 22 National Jelly Bean Day for more candy celebration ideas, or revisit June 16 National Fudge Day for another sweet summer treat.
Best Gummy Worm Brands to Buy
Several brands dominate the gummy worm market in the United States, each with a distinct texture, flavor profile, and size. The best brand depends on personal preference for chewiness, sourness, and ingredient quality.
| Brand | Known For | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Trolli | Sour coating, soft texture, dual-color design | Sour candy fans |
| Haribo | Firm chew, classic fruit flavors | Traditional gummy texture lovers |
| Black Forest | Real fruit juice, no artificial colors | Parents seeking cleaner ingredients |
| Albanese | Extra-soft texture, 12 flavors | Variety seekers |
| Annie’s Organic | Organic, no gelatin (plant-based pectin) | Vegan and organic shoppers |
Choose Trolli if you want the original gummy worm experience with a sour kick. Choose Black Forest or Annie’s Organic if ingredient transparency matters more than brand heritage.
Gummy Worms vs. Other Gummy Candies
Gummy worms differ from other gummy candies primarily in shape, size, and flavor layering. Most gummy worms are dual-colored and dual-flavored, combining two distinct fruit flavors in a single piece, which sets them apart from single-flavor gummy bears or rings.
Key differences:
- Shape: Worms are elongated and flexible, making them popular for novelty uses (dirt cups, fishing-themed party favors).
- Flavor: Dual-flavor design is a gummy worm trademark; gummy bears are typically single-flavor per piece.
- Size: Gummy worms range from standard (about 5 cm) to jumbo versions exceeding 15 cm.
- Coating: Sour sugar coating is more common on worms than on bears or rings.
For fans of chewy candy in general, May 23 National Taffy Day covers another beloved stretchy-candy holiday worth bookmarking.
Where to Buy Gummy Worms Near Me
Gummy worms are available at virtually every grocery store, pharmacy, convenience store, and mass retailer in the United States. For July 15 National Gummy Worm Day specifically, availability is never an issue, but finding deals or specialty varieties may require a bit more searching. [7]
Best places to buy gummy worms:
- Grocery chains (Walmart, Kroger, Target): Carry Trolli, Haribo, Black Forest, and store-brand options year-round.
- Bulk candy stores (bulk bins at Winco, Wegmans, or specialty candy shops): Best for large quantities at lower per-ounce costs.
- Online retailers (Amazon, Candy.com, brand websites): Ideal for jumbo worms, specialty flavors, or vegan options that may not be stocked locally.
- Pharmacy chains (Walgreens, CVS): Convenient for single-serve bags; prices are typically higher per ounce.
Common mistake: Buying gummy worms at a pharmacy or airport convenience store on the day of. Per-ounce prices at these locations can run two to three times higher than grocery or bulk options. Plan ahead and buy from a grocery or bulk retailer for better value.
Homemade Gummy Worm Recipes
Making gummy worms at home requires only four basic ingredients and silicone worm molds, which cost under $10 at most kitchen stores or online. The process takes about 30 minutes of active time plus two hours of chilling. [6]
Basic Homemade Gummy Worm Recipe
Ingredients (makes approximately 50 worms):
- 1/2 cup fruit juice (any flavor; apple, grape, and strawberry work well)
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder (or agar-agar for a vegan version)
- 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
- 1 teaspoon citric acid (optional, for a sour effect)
Steps:
- Combine fruit juice and sweetener in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until the sweetener dissolves.
- Sprinkle gelatin over the warm mixture. Whisk continuously for two minutes until fully dissolved. Do not boil.
- Add citric acid if using. Stir to combine.
- Pour the mixture into a squeeze bottle or use a small spoon to fill silicone worm molds.
- Refrigerate for at least two hours until firm.
- Pop the worms out of the molds and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
For dual-color worms: Make two separate batches with different juices. Fill each mold halfway with one color, let it set for 30 minutes, then top with the second color.
Gummy Worms for Kids Activities
Gummy worms are one of the most versatile candies for children’s activities because of their flexible shape and bright colors. July 15 National Gummy Worm Day is a natural occasion to incorporate them into classroom or party events. [7]
Activity ideas:
- Dirt cup dessert: Layer chocolate pudding and crushed chocolate cookies in a cup, then stick gummy worms partway in so they appear to be crawling out of “dirt.” This is a perennial favorite for ages 3 to 10.
- Gummy worm science: Use gummy worms in a baking soda and vinegar solution to watch them “dance” as carbon dioxide bubbles form around them.
- Candy sorting: Have young children sort gummy worms by color, practicing color recognition and counting.
- Fishing game: Attach gummy worms to a pretend fishing line for a carnival-style activity at birthday parties.
- Taste test chart: Give kids three or four different brands and have them rate each on sweetness, sourness, and chewiness, building simple data-recording skills.
For more sweet treat activities that pair well with candy holidays, the June 13 National Cupcake Lovers Day guide has additional decoration and activity ideas suitable for kids.
Are Gummy Worms Vegan or Gelatin-Based?
Most commercial gummy worms are not vegan because they contain gelatin, an animal-derived protein made from boiled animal bones and connective tissue. However, several brands now offer plant-based alternatives that use pectin or agar-agar as the setting agent instead.
Standard gummy worm ingredients typically include:
- Corn syrup or sugar
- Gelatin (animal-based)
- Citric acid
- Artificial or natural flavors
- Food coloring
Vegan-friendly alternatives:
- Annie’s Organic Bunny Fruit Snacks (worm-adjacent shape, pectin-based)
- SmartSweets Sour Blast Buddies (plant-based, low sugar)
- Surf Sweets Organic Gummy Worms (pectin-based, organic)
Edge case: Some brands labeled “natural” still use gelatin. Always check the ingredient list rather than relying on front-of-pack claims if avoiding animal products is a priority.
Gummy Worm Day Deals and Discounts
Retailers and candy brands often run promotions around July 15 National Gummy Worm Day, though deals are not universal. The best discounts tend to appear at mass retailers and online candy shops rather than at grocery chains. [2][7]
Where to find deals:
- Brand websites and newsletters: Trolli and Albanese have historically offered coupon codes or free-shipping promotions on July 15.
- Amazon: Gummy worm multi-packs often appear in “Deal of the Day” or lightning deals around the holiday.
- Bulk candy retailers: Sites like Candy.com or BulkCandyStore.com sometimes offer sitewide discounts tied to candy holidays.
- Local candy shops: Independent candy stores may run in-store specials; calling ahead is the fastest way to confirm.
Tip: Sign up for brand email lists at least a week before July 15 to receive any promotional codes in time.
Fun Facts About Gummy Worms
A few facts that make gummy worms more interesting than they might appear at first glance:
- Trolli introduced gummy worms on July 15, 1981, roughly 60 years after Haribo’s gummy bear debut in 1922, a deliberate anniversary nod. [2][9]
- The dual-color, dual-flavor design was Trolli’s original innovation and remains the defining characteristic of the gummy worm format.
- Gummy worms outsell gummy bears in several U.S. retail categories, partly because the worm shape lends itself to novelty uses like dirt cups and party decorations.
- Albanese, a U.S. candy manufacturer, has also promoted July 15 as National Gummi Bear Day for its own products, meaning the date now carries dual candy significance for some brands.
- The largest commercially available gummy worm weighs approximately 26 ounces (about 1.6 pounds) and is sold as a novelty item by several online candy retailers.
Gummy Worms Nutrition and Calories
A standard serving of gummy worms (approximately 10 pieces, or about 43 grams) contains roughly 130 to 150 calories, depending on the brand and whether a sour sugar coating is included. Gummy worms are high in sugar and low in protein, fiber, and micronutrients, so they are best treated as an occasional treat rather than a snack staple.
Typical nutritional profile per 43 g serving (estimates vary by brand):
- Calories: 130 to 150
- Total sugar: 22 to 28 g
- Protein: 2 to 3 g (from gelatin)
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 25 to 40 mg
Note: Vegan gummy worms made with pectin tend to have a similar calorie count but slightly less protein, since pectin does not contribute amino acids the way gelatin does.
For those tracking sugar intake, pairing a small portion of gummy worms with a protein-rich snack can help moderate the blood sugar spike that comes with high-sugar candy.
Gummy Worm Day Social Media Ideas
Social media activity around July 15 National Gummy Worm Day peaks sharply on the day itself, with Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) seeing the most engagement. Brands, food bloggers, and everyday users all participate.
Content ideas that perform well:
- Short video: Film a dirt cup being assembled in real time, from pudding layer to gummy worm placement. These perform well on TikTok and Instagram Reels.
- Flat-lay photo: Arrange gummy worms by color on a white or marble surface for a clean, shareable image.
- Taste test reel: Compare three or four brands in a 30-second video, rating each on texture and flavor.
- Recipe post: Share the homemade gummy worm recipe with a step-by-step carousel.
- Poll or quiz: Ask followers which gummy worm flavor is their favorite, or whether they prefer sour or regular.
Hashtags to use: #GummyWormDay, #NationalGummyWormDay, #July15, #CandyDay, #GummyWorms
For more food holiday social media inspiration, the June 21 National Smoothie Day guide and the June 27 National Ice Cream Cake Day article both include content ideas that translate well to candy holidays.
Conclusion
July 15 National Gummy Worm Day is a straightforward, enjoyable food holiday with a genuine historical foundation in Trolli’s 1981 product launch. Whether the goal is to find the best brand at a local store, make gummy worms from scratch with kids, post a themed recipe video, or simply enjoy a bag of the classic sour-coated originals, the holiday offers something for every level of participation.
Actionable next steps for 2026:
- Mark July 15 on your calendar now and sign up for email lists from Trolli or Albanese to catch any promotional codes before the day arrives.
- Buy silicone worm molds in advance if making homemade gummy worms, since they can sell out near the holiday.
- Plan a dirt cup activity for kids using the simple recipe above, it requires no baking and takes under 15 minutes to assemble.
- Prepare one social media post in advance using the hashtags listed above to join the conversation on July 15.
- If dietary restrictions apply, order a vegan brand like Surf Sweets or Annie’s Organic online at least a few days ahead to ensure delivery by July 15.
For more sweet holiday ideas throughout the year, explore the June 19 National Eat an Oreo Day guide and the June 24 National Pralines Day article for additional candy and dessert celebrations worth adding to the calendar.
FAQ
What date is National Gummy Worm Day? National Gummy Worm Day is always on July 15. It is a fixed-date holiday, not tied to a specific weekday, so the day of the week changes each year. In 2026, it falls on a Wednesday. [2][8]
Is National Gummy Worm Day an official holiday? No. It is an unofficial, informal food holiday with no government recognition. It is observed voluntarily by candy brands, retailers, and fans. [1]
Who invented gummy worms? Trolli, a German confectionery company, invented gummy worms and launched them on July 15, 1981. [9]
Are gummy worms safe for young children? Gummy worms are a choking hazard for children under three due to their chewy, elongated shape. For older children, they are generally safe in moderation, though the high sugar content means they should be an occasional treat.
Do gummy worms contain pork gelatin? Most conventional gummy worms use gelatin derived from pork or beef. If pork is a dietary concern, check the brand’s allergen information directly, as sourcing varies. Vegan brands use plant-based pectin or agar-agar instead.
How long do gummy worms last? Commercially packaged gummy worms typically have a shelf life of 12 to 18 months when stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, they are best consumed within a few weeks to maintain texture.
Can you freeze gummy worms? Yes. Freezing gummy worms changes their texture, making them firmer and chewier. Some people enjoy frozen gummy worms as a summer treat, which makes them particularly fitting for a July 15 celebration.
What is the most popular gummy worm flavor? Strawberry-lime (the classic red-and-green dual-color worm) is widely considered the most popular gummy worm flavor combination in the United States, though brand-specific surveys vary.
How many calories are in one gummy worm? A single standard gummy worm contains approximately 13 to 15 calories, based on a typical serving size of 10 pieces equaling 130 to 150 calories.
Are there sugar-free gummy worms? Yes. Several brands, including Haribo and Black Forest, offer sugar-free versions sweetened with maltitol or other sugar alcohols. Note that consuming large quantities of sugar alcohols can cause digestive discomfort.
References
[1] National Gummi Worm Day – https://www.awarenessdays.com/awareness-days-calendar/national-gummi-worm-day/ [2] National Gummi Worm Day – https://nationaltoday.com/national-gummi-worm-day/ [5] dayspedia – https://dayspedia.com/us/calendar/holiday/4790/ [6] National Gummi Worm Day – https://streetsidecuisine.com/events/national-gummi-worm-day/ [7] Gummi Worm Day – https://www.punchbowl.com/holidays/gummi-worm-day [8] Gummi Worm Day – https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/fun/gummi-worm-day [9] Gummi Worm Day – https://www.checkiday.com/f9386561c761e20a8e2840262552fd79/gummi-worm-day
