The two maps here both come from @Mapstream and show Pumpkin Pie’s attempt to take over the United States.
The map above shows search trends by state for 2025, while the one below shows the same data for 2019.
Why is Pumpkin Pie so popular?
Pumpkin pie has become more popular than pecan or apple pie during the U.S. holiday period (especially Thanksgiving) because of a mix of history, agriculture, marketing, and cultural symbolism:
Deep Link to Thanksgiving Tradition
Pumpkin pie is strongly associated with Thanksgiving in a way the others aren’t.
The Pilgrims and early settlers relied on native pumpkins as a staple crop, and over time pumpkin dishes became symbolic of the harvest feast.
By the 19th century, pumpkin pie was widely portrayed in Thanksgiving literature and menus, embedding it in the holiday’s identity.
Seasonal Alignment
Pumpkins are harvested in the fall peak (September–November), perfectly syncing with the holiday season. While apples are available year-round and pecans don’t feel exclusively “holiday seasonal,” pumpkin feels uniquely autumnal.
Powerful Marketing Campaigns
In the early 20th century, brands like Libby’s heavily promoted canned pumpkin as a Thanksgiving essential. This standardized pumpkin pie recipes and made it easier for households nationwide to adopt the tradition, reinforcing its dominance.
Nostalgia & Cultural Expectation
Pumpkin pie benefits from generational reinforcement. Many Americans grow up associating its smell and flavor with family gatherings and holiday warmth, making it the “default” choice even when alternatives are available.
Regional vs National Identity
- Pumpkin pie = National symbol of Thanksgiving
- Pecan pie = Strong in the South
- Apple pie = Patriotic and classic but not holiday-specific
Pumpkin pie wins because it is the most ritualized of the three, not necessarily the most loved, but the one most tied to the holiday itself.
Which of the 3 do you prefer?
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