In 1981, a sweet revolution happened in presidential candies. Jelly Belly made blue jelly beans for Reagan’s inauguration. These candies added a patriotic touch to the event. They completed the red, white, and blue colors of American pride.
Ronald Reagan loved jelly beans, and Jelly Belly made a special treat for his big day. They sent three and a half tons of red, white, and blue Jelly Belly jelly beans to Washington, DC.
The blue jelly beans for Reagan’s inauguration changed the candy world. They pleased the president and jelly bean fans all over. Even today, after 40 years, the blueberry flavor is still a favorite.
Key Takeaways
- Blue jelly beans were created specifically for Reagan’s 1981 inauguration
- Jelly Belly shipped 3.5 tons of patriotic-colored jelly beans to Washington, DC
- The blue flavor completed the red, white, and blue color scheme
- Blueberry quickly became one of Jelly Belly’s most popular flavors
- Reagan’s love for jelly beans influenced presidential confections
- The blue jelly bean tradition continues to be popular 40 years later
The Birth of Blue Jelly Beans for Reagan
Ronald Reagan started loving jelly beans in 1966 during his campaign for California governor. He used them to help quit smoking. This began a lifelong love for jelly beans. The Herman Goelitz Candy Company sent him monthly shipments of Mini Jelly Beans while he was governor.
In 1976, the company launched Jelly Belly, which became Reagan’s top choice. By 1978, he only got Jelly Belly beans. These beans became famous as Republican party souvenirs and Reagan memorabilia.
As Reagan’s career grew, so did the jelly beans’ popularity. In 1980, with his presidential inauguration near, the candy company had a challenge. They needed a blue jelly bean for the event’s red, white, and blue theme.
This led to the creation of the blueberry-flavored Jelly Belly for Reagan’s 1981 inauguration. This new flavor not only fit the patriotic theme but also became a symbol of American political history. Today, these blue jelly beans are a sweet reminder of Reagan’s presidency, like the Declaration of Independence symbolizes America’s.
Presidential Confections: Reagan’s Love Affair with Jelly Beans
Ronald Reagan loved jelly beans more than just as a snack. They became a symbol of the 80s. The White House ordered 720 bags of Jelly Belly beans during his time in office.
These beans were enjoyed in many settings. They were at cabinet meetings, social events, and even in diplomatic talks.
Reagan’s love for jelly beans started a new tradition at the White House. In 1981, Herman G. Rowland got permission to make presidential seal jelly bean jars. These jars were given to world leaders, diplomats, and special guests.
They became very popular. The president’s top choice was licorice flavor. He believed jelly beans could tell a lot about a person’s character.
This fun side of politics made Reagan popular with many Americans. His love for jelly beans is still remembered today. It connects jelly beans to the Reagan era forever.
The Legacy of Reagan’s Blue Jelly Beans
Reagan’s love for Jelly Belly jelly beans turned into a sweet success story. When people found out the President loved these candies, Jelly Belly got a huge boost. They were 77 weeks behind in meeting the demand.
This popularity made Blue Jelly Beans for Reagan a big part of American pop culture. Today, Jelly Belly honors Reagan’s legacy in special ways. Their factory has Reagan memorabilia, like jelly bean portraits of the President and First Lady.
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library Museum Store keeps the tradition going. They sell different jelly bean jars that celebrate the President’s favorite candy. Blue jelly beans, especially in Blueberry and Berry Blue flavors, are still a hit for many events.
This tradition started with Reagan’s inauguration and continues to make celebrations sweet across the nation.
Just as Reagan’s presidency left a lasting mark, his favorite candy has created a flavorful legacy. The story of Blue Jelly Beans for Reagan shows how a simple treat can become a symbol of national pride and presidential charm.
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