NATIONAL LICORICE DAY
National Licorice Day on April 12th each year celebrates licorice in all its forms. It also recognizes its history, health benefits, and distinction around the world. You won’t be limited when it comes to licorice, either. There are plenty of licorice candies, licorice ropes, jelly beans, jewels, and many others to enjoy!
Of course, the designation has evolved as people savor all types and flavors of licorice to celebrate the day.
If you’re a fan of black licorice and have noticed it makes your tummy feel better, there is a reason. Licorice root can soothe a stomach bothered by heartburn or gastritis. The glycyrrhizic acid in licorice contains immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties that can help to restore balance to the stomach lining. That is definitely something worth celebrating! Grab a few black jelly beans from the candy jar for this holiday!
HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalLicoriceDay
- Take a world tour taste test of licorice. The variety seems endless! Some combinations included salted licorice or chocolate-covered licorice.
- What’s your favorite licorice?
- Or try licorice-flavored cookies or ice cream to celebrate the day.
- Make sure to enjoy some licorice and share your favorite, too!
- Use #NationalLicoriceDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL LICORICE DAY HISTORY
Licorice International in coordination with the National Confectioners Association designated April 12th as National Licorice Day in 2004. The company offers nearly 100 types of licorice from all over the world.
Licorice FAQ
Q. Are there any benefits from eating licorice?
A. Eating black licorice can calm an upset stomach. It’s also known to help soothe a sore throat. Licorice also has antibacterial properties.
Q. Can I grow licorice at home?
A. Licorice is hardy in zones 9-11. However, this tropical plant can also be grown in cooler climates when grown in containers.
April 12th Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) History
1861
The American Civil War began when Confederate forces opened fire on Fort Sumter, South Carolina. It would be known by various names, including the War Between the States, War of Northern Aggression, War of the Rebellion, Great Rebellion, War for Southern Independence, and Freedom War. Four years later it would end on April 9, 1865, after dividing the country and 620,000 soldiers died.
1915
Charlie Chaplin’s The Tramp released in the United States
1934
The Mount Washington Observatory records winds at 231 miles per hour.
1955
Epidemiologist and virologist Dr. Thomas Francis Jr. announced that the polio vaccine developed by Dr. Jonas Salk was up to 90% effective in preventing paralytic polio. Dr. Francis, the director of the Poliomyelitis Vaccine Evaluation Center at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, made the announcement in Ann Arbor, Michigan with Dr. Jonas Salk.
1961
Aboard the Vostok 1, Yuri Gagarin becomes the first human in space. He orbited the Earth once before re-entering the Earth’s atmosphere. Gagarin then ejected from Vostok 1 and parachuted to the ground separately from the spacecraft.
April 12th Celebrated (and Not So Celebrated) Birthdays
Imogen Cunningham – 1883
The American photographer is remembered for her still life and portrait photography. She experimented with light, double exposure, and many new photographic methods.
Beverly Cleary – 1916
Creator of fictional characters Romona Quimby, Ralph the Mouse, and Henry Higgins, Beverly Cleary authored children’s books with a young reader’s perspective. She captured the angst only child could understand and spun it into an adventure and story form.
Peter Safar – 1924
The Austrian American physician developed the procedure known as mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.
David Letterman – 1947
In 1982, the American talk show host launched his first evening talk show, Late Night with David Letterman. His first guest on the comedy talk show was Bill Murray.
Tom Clancy – 1949
The bestselling author is known for his espionage and military thrillers. Included in his best-selling novels are The Hunt for Red October, Patriot Games, and the Jack Ryan novels.
