National Chocolate Covered Insect Day
National Chocolate Covered Insect Day is observed on October 14. It celebrates an unusual pairing: crunchy edible insects coated in sweet chocolate. The idea may sound surprising, but people around the world have eaten insects as part of their food traditions, and this observance offers a playful chance to learn about that practice—or simply try a daring new snack.
How the Day Started
The exact origin of National Chocolate Covered Insect Day is not well documented, so it is best not to credit a particular founder or organization. The available source excerpts do not explain how the observance began or why. The day celebrates the novelty of combining chocolate with edible insects and invites people to approach an unfamiliar food with curiosity.
Chocolate-covered insects are also a real confection, not just a holiday joke. Specialty food makers have offered treats made with insects such as crickets or mealworms, often roasted for a crisp texture before being coated. Recipes and products vary, and anyone considering a taste should check the ingredients and follow the seller’s food-safety guidance.
A Crunchy Treat with a Bigger Food Story
Eating insects, sometimes called entomophagy, is part of food traditions in many regions of the world. The insects eaten and the ways they are prepared differ from place to place. Some are roasted, fried, ground into flour, or added to other dishes. Chocolate is a more familiar flavor for many people, so pairing it with a crunchy insect can make the idea feel a little more approachable.
The day can also be a reminder that food preferences are shaped by culture, familiarity, and personal taste. A snack that seems unusual to one person may be everyday food to someone else. You do not have to eat insects to take part; learning about food traditions, talking about where ingredients come from, or sampling a new chocolate treat can all fit the spirit of the day.
If you are curious about trying an insect-based snack, choose a product made and sold specifically for human consumption. Do not eat insects collected outdoors, since they may have been exposed to pesticides or other contaminants. People with shellfish allergies should be especially cautious: insects and shellfish are both arthropods, and a possible allergy connection means it is wise to check with a healthcare professional before sampling insect-based foods.
Ways to Celebrate National Chocolate Covered Insect Day
- Try a specialty snack. Look for a clearly labeled chocolate-covered cricket or mealworm product from a reputable food seller. Read the ingredient list and allergy information before tasting.
- Make a familiar alternative. If insects are not for you, celebrate with chocolate-covered pretzels, nuts, or raisins. You can enjoy the playful chocolate theme without trying an unfamiliar ingredient.
- Learn about food traditions. Find a reliable source that discusses edible insects in different cuisines, then explore how preparation and ingredients vary around the world.
- Host a low-pressure tasting. Offer a few chocolate treats, label every ingredient, and let guests decide what they would like to try. Make sure there are options for people with allergies or dietary restrictions.
- Get creative in the kitchen. Use a chocolate mold or parchment paper to make small treats, and invite everyone to choose a familiar topping. Keep the activity fun, and never pressure anyone to taste something they would rather skip.
When is National Chocolate Covered Insect Day?
National Chocolate Covered Insect Day: Every year on October 14.
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | October 14 | Thursday |
| 2028 | October 14 | Saturday |
| 2029 | October 14 | Sunday |
| 2030 | October 14 | Monday |
| 2031 | October 14 | Tuesday |
Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on October 13, 2026 · Last updated October 15, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When is National Chocolate Covered Insect Day in 2027?
National Chocolate Covered Insect Day is on Thursday, October 14, 2027. After that, it falls on Saturday, October 14, 2028. Every year on October 14.
Is National Chocolate Covered Insect Day a public holiday?
No. National Chocolate Covered Insect Day is an observance, not an official public holiday, so schools and businesses stay open as usual.
How did National Chocolate Covered Insect Day start?
The exact origin of National Chocolate Covered Insect Day is not well documented. The available information does not identify a founder or explain why the observance began.
What does National Chocolate Covered Insect Day celebrate?
Observed on October 14, the day celebrates the unusual pairing of crunchy edible insects and sweet chocolate. It also offers a chance to learn about insect-eating traditions around the world.
How can you celebrate National Chocolate Covered Insect Day?
You could try a clearly labeled chocolate-covered insect snack from a reputable seller, learn about edible insects in different cuisines, or enjoy chocolate-covered pretzels, nuts, or raisins instead. Check ingredients and allergy information, and never pressure anyone to taste something they would rather skip.
Sources
✓ Date matches KALW: Tuesday October 14, 2014 (checked automatically on October 12, 2026).
