Chocolate is the treat that many people turn to when they’re looking for something sweet. It’s also a treat that has been cultivated by humans for at least 3,000 years. Chocolate is one of the most popular sweets in the world, and that’s probably why there’s a holiday that celebrates chocolate candy.

A holiday known as National Chocolate Candy Day, which is celebrated on December 28th. It’s a sweet holiday for a sweet treat that has earned its place in the hearts of people all over the world.

The History of Chocolate

Since the history of National Chocolate Candy Day proves to be elusive, we decided to instead do a history of chocolate. To understand where chocolate comes from, you first have to go back to the Olmecs of southern Mexico.

The Olmecs were the first major civilization in Mexico and they lived in the tropical lowlands on the Gulf of Mexico in what is now known as Tabasco and Veracruz. They first appeared approximately 3,600 years ago, or about 1,600 BCE. They were making a drink using cacao beans and undoubtedly passed this knowledge down to the Mayans.

In Mayan culture, chocolate was used in celebrations, to finalize important transactions, and for simply enjoying. It was served with just about every meal and was made thick, frothy, and combined with other ingredients that may have included everything from water to honey and chili peppers.

To the Aztecs, chocolate was also an important food, and they believed it was given to them by the gods. They also enjoyed it as a drink, just like the Mayans did, and even used cacao beans for currency.

The next chapter in chocolate’s history isn’t as clear as we would’ve liked it to be, as there are several different reports of how chocolate managed to make it to Europe from the Americas. Some people say that Christopher Columbus brought cacao beans back to Spain, and others believe that Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés did.

Regardless of which story you choose to believe, one thing is for sure: by the 16th century, chocolate had made it to Spain. And it wouldn’t be long after that the love of chocolate would spread all over Europe and eventually the U.S.

Observing National Chocolate Candy Day

Anyone who has to ask how to celebrate National Chocolate Candy Day isn’t truly a fan of chocolate. After all, the only real way to enjoy this holiday is by treating yourself, your friends, and your family to some of the best chocolate candy that you can afford.

It doesn’t matter what type of chocolate candy you enjoy, just be sure to enjoy it. While you’re enjoying this holiday, don’t forget to post on social media using the hashtag #NationalChocolateCandyDay to spread the word about it.