National Jello Day

Colorful jello cubes arranged in a wiggly, playful pattern. A spoon is about to dig in, surrounded by cheerful kids in retro 60s fashion.. — National jello day illustration

Welcome to the wiggly world of National Jello Day! Get ready to dive into a sea of brightly colored, jiggly deliciousness that has been delighting taste buds for decades. From classic molded gelatin desserts to wobbly jello shots, this is a day dedicated to all things Jello! So, grab your spoon and let's dig in!

When is Jello Day?

It's national jello day on the 12th July.

The Jiggly Journey of Jello

Did you know that Jello was invented in the late 19th century? It all started with a guy named Pearle Bixby Wait, who discovered a way to create a powdered fruit-flavored gelatin. He patented his creation in 1897, and the rest, as they say, is wibbly-wobbly history.

Jello quickly became a hit in households all across America. Its ease of preparation and endless flavor possibilities made it a staple in kitchens and diners. From luscious layered desserts to refreshing salad molds, Jello became a canvas for culinary creativity.

Over the years, Jello has evolved and adapted to changing tastes and trends. Today, you can find sugar-free, vegan, and even gluten-free varieties, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a wiggly treat.

A Squishy Celebration

So, how can you celebrate National Jello Day? Well, you can start by whipping up a classic Jello dish. Maybe a retro-style fruit cocktail mold or a fancy rainbow-layered trifle? The possibilities are endless.

Don't worry if you're not a fan of the wobbly texture. Jello shots are a popular way to enjoy the flavors of Jello in a more adult-friendly form. Just remember to always enjoy responsibly, folks!

And if you're feeling extra adventurous, why not try your hand at a Jello art masterpiece? Yes, that's a thing! Some talented artists create intricate sculptures using gelatin as their medium. It's a sight to behold and a testament to the wiggly wonders of Jello.

History behind the term 'Jello'

1897

The Birth of Jell-O

In 1897, the term 'jello' was born with the creation of a new dessert product. Pearl Wait, a carpenter in Le Roy, New York, and his wife May, experimented with a powdered dessert mix made from fruit flavorings, sugar, and gelatin. They called their creation 'Jell-O'. Initially, Jell-O struggled to gain popularity, but the Wainscoating Gelatine Company acquired the rights to the product in 1899.

1902

Marketing Success

In 1902, the Jell-O brand started to gain traction due to the efforts of the Genesee Pure Food Company. They launched an extensive marketing campaign that included distributing free Jell-O recipe books, featuring Jell-O advertisements in magazines, and even using salesmen to conduct door-to-door promotions. These efforts significantly increased Jell-O's popularity and sales.

1904

Introducing New Flavors

By 1904, Jell-O had become a recognizable and trusted brand. The Genesee Pure Food Company introduced new flavors to the Jell-O lineup, including orange, lemon, and strawberry. The availability of various flavors contributed to Jell-O's growing appeal, as people could enjoy a variety of fruity and refreshing desserts.

1912

Jell-O Takes to the Skies

In 1912, Jell-O embarked on a unique marketing venture by partnering with a famous aviator, Clifford Turpin. Turpin flew over Le Roy, New York, and dropped boxes of Jell-O parachuting down to the townspeople. This innovative advertising stunt generated significant buzz and solidified Jell-O's connection to fun and adventure.

1920s

Jell-O in American Culture

During the 1920s, Jell-O solidified its place in American culture as a popular and versatile dessert. It was often served at social gatherings, became a favorite choice for molded salads, and was even incorporated into various recipes such as Jell-O salads and baked goods. Jell-O symbolized convenience and a modern, optimistic era.

1950s

Jell-O in Pop Culture

In the 1950s, Jell-O experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to heavy marketing campaigns and its portrayal in popular culture. The brand sponsored television shows, printed Jell-O recipe cards, and became an iconic symbol of affordable, family-friendly desserts. Memorable Jell-O advertisements and the catchphrase 'There's always room for Jell-O' further solidified its place in American society.

Today

Jell-O's Enduring Legacy

To this day, Jell-O remains a beloved dessert across the United States. It has evolved with the changing preferences and dietary trends, introducing sugar-free and new flavor variations. Jell-O continues to be a versatile ingredient for creative desserts, salads, and jiggly treats. Its almost 125-year history reflects the significant impact Jell-O has had on American culinary culture and advertising.

Did you know?

Did you know that Jello has been used in some surprising ways? It has been used to soothe sore throats, make homemade face masks, and even create unique science experiments. Jello truly is a versatile super-gel!