Did you know that November 4th is National Candy Day? Few things bring joy to so many people across the world the way that candy does. Once considered a luxury reserved only for the wealthy, candy – a word derived from the Persian “qandi” or sugar cane – now comes in all different shapes, sizes and colors, and is readily available for everyone.

It’s nearly impossible to resist the temptation that mouth-watering chocolate, peanut butter, nougat, nuts, and sugar cause when combined together into our favorite kinds of candy. That’s why it is such a popular addition to our events here in Toronto. Join POP! in celebrating National Candy Day, and let’s learn a little bit about this staple of modern society!

Ancient treats

Back in the time before sugar was so readily available, people had to go to great lengths to enjoy a tasty treat. Honey was the sweetening ingredient of choice, and after it was painstakingly harvested it was used to coat fruits and other foods, as well as to make candy treats. Not only was it used as a delicious treat, but it served as a medicine too. Doctors prescribed it for sore throats and other ailments.

New technologies, new candies

Like many other industries in the early 19th century, candy was completely revolutionized by the advances in heavy machinery. The invention of the candy press and the widespread availability of sugar lead to an explosion in consumption. The price was driven so low that people often enjoyed penny candies. Now everyone could enjoy the taste without having to pay a fortune.

Modern times

Since modern methods of farming revolutionized the production of crops such as sugar cane, candy has become so ubiquitous that we hardly even notice that it is there. We rarely stop to think about how amazing it is that these treats are so readily available that there are literally thousands of different kinds like chocolate, liquorice, sour candy, taffies, gumdrops, and marshmallows, and that they are so easily bought at any store. Some of the most famous brands, and the ones that are most popular in our events, are names like M&M’s, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, Hershey’s, and much more. In fact, candy is so popular nowadays that it gets its own holiday!

Candy is a treat that helps put a smile on the faces of billions of people across the world. Enjoyed by young and old, this treat comes in all shapes and sizes. It’s really no surprise that candy is such a popular addition at our corporate and children’s events. Join POP! Events Group in celebrating National Candy Day so we can appreciate this modern marvel for all that it is. Use #NationalCandyDay to post on social media and tell us what your favourite candy is!