National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day, observed every year on October 21, celebrates the perfect blend of two fall ingredients—creamy cheesecake and spiced pumpkin. Though its origins are unclear, the day reflects America’s love for seasonal desserts and the cozy flavors that define autumn. It invites people to bake, share, or simply enjoy a slice of this delicious treat, whether in traditional form or creative variations like bars, cupcakes, or parfaits. The observance marks the unofficial start of the holiday dessert season, celebrating comfort, warmth, and the joy of fall baking.
When is National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day?
National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day takes place on the same date each year—October 21. Here’s a quick look at how it falls on the calendar through 2030:
| Year | Date | Day of the Week |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 21 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | October 21 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | October 21 | Thursday |
| 2028 | October 21 | Saturday |
| 2029 | October 21 | Sunday |
| 2030 | October 21 | Monday |
Similar Observances
Several other food holidays highlight cozy fall flavors and classic desserts that bring warmth to the season:
- National Cheesecake Day – July 30: spotlights the creamy dessert in all its forms, from New York-style to fruity toppings.
- National Cinnamon Roll Day – October 4: honors another fall favorite known for its warm, spiced aroma.
- National Dessert Day – October 14: encourages everyone to enjoy their favorite sweet treats.
- National Pumpkin Day – October 26: celebrates the fall fruit used in pies, soups, and seasonal dishes.
- National Pumpkin Pie Day – December 25: pays tribute to the holiday favorite that graces nearly every Christmas table.
5 Ways to Celebrate National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day
This delicious day is all about enjoying and sharing fall’s signature dessert in creative ways:
- Bake and Share – Make a homemade pumpkin cheesecake and share it with neighbors, coworkers, or friends. A small slice or a few cheesecake bars can brighten anyone’s day.
- Try a Twist – Add your own flavor spin, like a gingersnap crust, caramel drizzle, or chocolate swirl. Even a simple topping can make it special.
- Visit a Local Bakery – Support your favorite café or bakery by ordering a seasonal pumpkin cheesecake. It’s a tasty way to enjoy fall and support small businesses.
- Host a Dessert Night – Invite friends or family over for coffee and pumpkin cheesecake. Pair it with apple cider or hot chocolate for a cozy fall gathering.
- Go Mini or Make Ahead – Prepare individual cheesecakes in muffin tins or freezer-friendly portions. They’re perfect for lunchbox treats or quick desserts later in the season.
Before You Go:
We have many more national days lists for you to explore.
- Food-related national days: complete list of national food days, pasta & noodles days, vegan & vegetarian days, celiac & gluten-free days, mushroom days, ice-cream days, pizza days, coffee days, chocolate days, wine days, alcohol & drinking days.
- Non-food national days: National Days Calendar 2025-2026 (check out the printable calendars in my Etsy shop), National Days for Teachers, and a wide array of special lists such as cat days, dog days, animal days, cleaning & organizing days, book days, music days, family & relationships days, national days for women, stationery days and even Harry Potter days.
- Country-specific national days: Australian national days, more coming soon.
