Whole Cake Day

What Is Whole Cake Day?

December 8th is "Whole Cake Day" in Japan. It was established by Ichiryu Ltd., a confectionery company based in Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, which runs the Patisserie Ichiryu shops. The 8th of every month is the anniversary, certified and registered by the Japan Anniversary Association in 2020.

Reading a Cake Out of the Calendar's 1 and 8

The reasoning behind the date is unusual. Because a calendar is laid out in weeks, the 8th always sits directly below the 1st.

• Origin of the date: on any calendar, the 8th falls right under the 1st
• The image: the "1" is a candle and the "8" is the round base of a cake, together suggesting a whole cake
• Established by: Ichiryu Ltd., a confectionery maker and retailer in Fukuoka
• Certification: registered with the Japan Anniversary Association in 2020

"Whole" Versus "Piece"

A whole cake is the large, uncut cylindrical cake, made to be shared among several people. A slice cut from it is called a "piece cut cake," or simply a "piece." The day carries the wish that whole cakes -- something most people eat only a few times a year -- feel a little more within reach.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Check the reservation situation for your Christmas cake
• Work out what size suits your family or your team
• Buy a whole cake instead of slices and cut it yourself
• Have a look at what your neighborhood patisserie is offering

Talking About Cake Before Christmas

December is the busiest month of the year for whole cakes. The 8th may be exactly the right moment to start thinking about reservations and plans for the day.