NATIONAL FRUITCAKE TOSS DAY
Usually the third weekend in January, National Fruitcake Toss Day challenges us to chuck the fruitcake as far as we can. (Occasionally, this fun holiday is listed as occurring on the first Saturday in December.)
#FruitcakeTossDay
Many people receive fruitcakes as gifts sometime during the holiday season. Some people eat this holiday bread while others may re-gift them. There are those who sneakily throw them away and others who will do so openly.
But on the third day of January, another type of fruitcake, ahem, a person comes out of the woodwork. These are the characters who have hoarded them, stored them, and hid them so they can celebrate with a competition of sorts.
HOW TO OBSERVE FRUITCAKE TOSS DAY
Host a fruitcake tossing competition. Invite family members to join you outside with their respective fruitcakes (the ones made with flour, fruit, and nuts) and take turns chucking them as far as they can. Make hot chocolate and prizes. Share your celebration using #FruitcakeTossDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL FRUITCAKE TOSS DAY HISTORY
The first Great Fruitcake Toss was held in Manitou Springs, Colorado on January 3, 1996. Each year the entrants compete to see who can hurl or toss their fruitcakes the farthest.
DATES
21 January 2023
20 January 2024
18 January 2025
Fruitcake Toss FAQ
Q. Who can celebrate National Fruitcake Toss Day?
A. Anyone! It’s just a fun way to spend a winter day.
Q. Does the fruitcake have to be old?
A. No. We didn’t find an age limit related to the holiday.
Q. I like the fruitcake I received. Do I have to toss it?
A. No. Enjoy your fruitcake. There are several other holidays on January 3rd for you to celebrate.
Q. Is it better to toss the fruitcake under-handed or over-handed?
A. Technique will vary from person to person. However, heaving it like a shotput should be considered.