On December 22, kitchens across the United States fill with the scent of sugar, spice, and creativity. National Cookie Exchange Day is a sweet invitation to gather, bake, and share your favorite homemade cookies with friends, neighbors, and colleagues. It’s a tradition that brings people together, one batch at a time.
What is National Cookie Exchange Day?
Picture a table crowded with tins and trays – chocolate chip, snickerdoodle, gingerbread, and family recipes passed from one generation to the next. National Cookie Exchange Day is a chance for people to swap cookies, stories, and a bit of holiday cheer. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just love to try new treats, this day is about connection and generosity. Some families host festive gatherings where everyone brings a dozen of their best cookies to trade, while others send boxes of homemade goodness to loved ones far away.
When is National Cookie Exchange Day?
National Cookie Exchange Day is celebrated annually on December 22. It’s perfectly timed for last-minute holiday gatherings or as a way to share homemade gifts before the end of the year. Most people participate by hosting or joining a cookie swap at home, work, or in their community, but you can also take part virtually by mailing cookies or sharing recipes online.
Why National Cookie Exchange Day Matters
Cookies might seem simple, but the tradition of exchanging them is rooted in kindness and community. For many, this day offers a warm break from the holiday rush – a moment to connect, laugh, and create memories. It’s a way to honor family traditions, welcome new neighbors, or support someone who might be spending the season alone. In a world where time together can feel rare, sharing something homemade is a genuine act of care.
How to Get Involved in National Cookie Exchange Day
Whether you bake from scratch or pick up treats from a local bakery, there are plenty of ways to join in:
- Host a cookie swap with friends, family, or coworkers. Each person brings a different cookie to trade.
- Drop off a plate of cookies to a neighbor, teacher, or essential worker to brighten their day.
- Share your favorite cookie recipe on social media and invite others to do the same.
- Organize a virtual exchange by mailing cookies or exchanging recipes with friends in other places.
- Get kids involved by letting them decorate, package, or deliver cookies.
History of National Cookie Exchange Day
While the exact origins of National Cookie Exchange Day are a bit mysterious, cookie swaps have been part of American holiday traditions for generations. What started as small gatherings among friends grew into a beloved custom, especially in the 20th century as communities looked for ways to celebrate togetherness. The formal recognition of December 22 as National Cookie Exchange Day has helped keep this joyful practice alive, blending nostalgia with new traditions every year.
Noteworthy Facts About National Cookie Exchange Day
- The average American eats nearly 19,000 cookies in their lifetime.
- Cookie exchanges gained popularity in the 1950s as a way to share holiday treats during times of rationing.
- Some swaps include contests for best-tasting, most creative, or best-decorated cookie.
- Virtual cookie exchanges became popular during the pandemic, connecting people across distances.
- Many families use this day to share treasured recipes and create new holiday memories together.
Hashtags
#NationalCookieExchangeDay, #CookieExchange2026, #ShareCookies
Related Events
February 10
February 13
February 13
