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National Cocoa Day

Celebrate National Cocoa Day with a steaming mug of hot cocoa - top it off with marshmallows, whipped cream, and a sprinkle of cinnamon!

Sunday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember 13

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYChocolate

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Cocoa Day on December 13 by indulging in the warm and comforting beverage! Cocoa has been around for centuries and is said to have originated from the Aztecs who used it as a form of currency. Nowadays, cocoa can be found everywhere from hot chocolate to desserts like brownies, cookies, cakes and more. So grab your favorite mug of cocoa or whip up some delicious recipes - it's time to celebrate!

DEALS & OFFERS

Past offers

No active deals yet — here’s who’s celebrated before.

Nothing yet for 2026

Brands typically announce offers a week before the date. Check back closer to the day.

1 brand has run a deal

Jamba

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TIMELINE

National Cocoa Day Timeline

Aztec Era

The Aztecs are said to have used cocoa as a form of currency during the 16th century.

First Chocolate House

The first chocolate house, serving drinks made from cocoa, opened in London, England.

Cocoa Press Invented

Coenraad Van Houten invented the hydraulic cocoa press, which led to the production of modern cocoa powder.

Creation of Milk Chocolate

Milk chocolate was created by Daniel Peter and Henri Nestlé, adding a new dimension to cocoa consumption.

Cocoa in Recipes

Cocoa became a staple ingredient in various desserts like brownies, cookies, and cakes due to its widespread availability and affordability.

National Cocoa Day

National Cocoa Day, celebrating the warm and comforting beverage, is officially recognized in the United States, held annually on December 13.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Cocoa Day

Make homemade hot cocoa

Get creative with your hot cocoa recipes by adding a pinch of this and that. Try adding a cinnamon stick, peppermint extract, or even marshmallows to make it extra special.

BAKE

Bake cocoa-infused treats

Cupcakes, cookies, brownies - you name it! Add some cocoa powder to your favorite recipes to give them an extra chocolatey flavor.

VISIT

Visit a local chocolate shop

Take a stroll through your city's local chocolate shops for some sweet treats. You can also pick up some unique ingredients to add to your homemade recipes.

HOST

Host a cocoa tasting party

Invite friends over and make a variety of hot cocoas. Ask everyone to bring their favorite toppings and mixers, like mini marshmallows, peppermint sticks, or whipped cream.

WATCH

Watch a movie with cocoa

Grab some popcorn and hot cocoa and settle in for a movie night! Pick out your favorite movies that have something to do with chocolate or just have some good old fashioned fun.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Cocoa Day

Cocoa can be used in many recipes

Cocoa isn't just limited to hot beverages - there are a variety of baked goods that can benefit from its deliciousness! From cakes and brownies to cookies and muffins, a bit of cocoa can turn any recipe into something special. So don't be afraid to experiment - you may just come up with the perfect treat!

Cocoa is comforting and cozy

Nothing beats the smell of a freshly brewed cup of cocoa, especially on a cold winter day. The warmth of its flavor is like a big hug for your taste buds, and it's sure to take the chill out of any weather!

Cocoa is easy to make

Making cocoa doesn't require any fancy equipment or complicated recipes - all you need is some good quality cocoa powder, milk (or water) and sugar. Plus, you can always customize your cocoa with extra ingredients like marshmallows, sprinkles or even a pinch of chili pepper for added flavor!