Philadelphia was once a sweet spot for chocolatiers and other candymakers who made iconic treats for Valentine’s Day and other holidays

Goldenberg’s Peanut Chews, Goobers and Whitman’s Sampler boxes of chocolates are just a few confectionary classics that were born in Philly.

By: Jared Bahir Browsh, University of Colorado Boulder, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: February 9, 2026

Words: 1,107

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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By Jared Bahir Browsh, University of Colorado Boulder

Many of America’s iconic holiday candies have Philadelphia or Pennsylvania roots – like Peeps on Easter, Reese’s peanut butter cups on Halloween, and a good, old-fashioned Whitman’s Sampler box of chocolates on Valentine’s Day.

As a Philadelphian and a cultural historian who teaches students about the history of American corporations, the role of the city in the nation’s food history often comes up in my class. …

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