Gumdrops are a unique candy, consisting of a gelatin texture that is somewhat similar to Jello, but a bit more dense. Gumdrops are typically flavored with fruits and spices and are most often eaten during winter. Festive and fun, a bag of gumdrops typically includes candy colors such as red, orange, purple, white, green, and yellow.

National Gumdrop Day celebrates all things related to gumdrops, including their mysterious history. So, what is the history behind the gumdrop, and when did it start? Gumdrops were believed to be invented by Percy Trusdale in 1801. However, many still debate about the history of gumdrops and how they came to be.

Gumdrops, the brightly colored pectin candy shaped like domes, are also called spice drops for the variety of spices they contain, such as cinnamon and clove. The term “gumdrops” was first documented during the 1850s, when it appeared in the Illinois State Chronicle as it reported on a candy shop owned by George Julier.

No matter who invented them, gumdrops are delicious, and the most popular flavors for gumdrops are cherry, orange, lemon, grape, and licorice. National Gumdrop Day is all about exploring this classic kind of candy and tasting its spicy, yet sweet, flavors and textures.