A wise American Author named David Mamet once said, “We must have pie. Stress cannot exist in the presence of a pie.” We couldn’t agree more! National Pie Day is a fun excuse to plan an uplifting team building activity at work. Pies can turn company outings into cooking challenges, or company meetings into team bonding chats over dessert.
What is the Origin of Pie?
Ancient Greeks are believed to be the originators of pie (thanks, Greece!). This belief stems from Aristophanes, a comic playwright of ancient Athens. In his plays (5th Century BC), there are mentions of sweets, including small pastries filled with fruit. Romans weren’t far behind. The 1st-century Roman cookbook “Apicius” makes various mentions of recipes involving a pie case.
By 160 BC, Roman statesman Marcus Porcius Cato wrote a book where he recorded the most popular pie/cake, called “placenta.” Also called “libum” by Romans, it was similar to a 21st-century cheesecake on a pastry base, often used as an offering to the gods. It must have been pretty delicious!
When is National Pie Day?
National Pie Day is celebrated annually on January 23rd in the United States. Originally created by the American Pie Council, this day offers an opportunity for people across the country to indulge in their favorite pies, whether sweet or savory.
National Pie Day Activities for Work
Try one of the following ideas to celebrate National Pie Day at work (or, try them anytime – pie is a great idea all year round!)
- Pie Baking Contest: Organize a friendly competition where employees can showcase their baking skills with homemade pies.
- Pie Bake: Find a facility with a kitchen for a half-day of baking together at work! Baking together is a great way to foster patience, communication, and teamwork.
- Pie Buffet: Set up a pie tasting station with various types and flavors for everyone to enjoy.
- Pie-themed Trivia: Host a fun quiz with questions related to pies and baking, offering small prizes for winners.
- Pie Recipe Swap: Encourage employees to bring in their favorite pie recipes to share with colleagues.
More Culinary-Themed Team Building Activities for Your Organization
Gathering around food is a timeless space for camaraderie and connection. Bring that spirit to work with more culinary-themed team building activities!
Best Corporate Events, the largest single-source provider of team building programs in the United States, has the perfect culinary activity for your team. Choose from culinary events designed to strengthen teams in the office (not just in the kitchen) while also having a great time. Culinary team building programs include the following:
Check out other effective team building programs for any theme or goal at Best Corporate Events.
