So what’s in Fairfield, California, you ask? Well this everyday city peppered with public schools, city parks, a number of friendly neighborhoods, and of course a Wal-Mart; is also home to the worldwide headquarters of U.S. President Ronald Reagan’s favorite candy – Jelly Belly jellybeans.
The company was originally The Herman Goelitz Candy Company and after David Klein talked with the family owned business about selling jelly beans in single flavors jelly beans were never the same. Traditional jelly beans were only flavored and colored on the outer layer, but Jelly Belly beans are flavored and colored inside and out; they use real fruit juices; and c’mon, who else would dare make and sell booger flavored beans? David Klein sold the first Jelly Belly jelly beans in a small ice cream parlor, Fosselman’s, in Alhambra, California in 1976. The first flavors were Very Cherry, Tangerine, Lemon, Green Apple, Grape, Licorice, Root Beer, and Cream Soda.
There may be 50 ‘original’ flavors, but it seems they come up with new flavors all the time. They even provide “recipes” where you mix together various flavors for a taste experience like no other. Included are ‘chile relleno’, ‘lemon meringue pie’, ‘blueberry muffin’, and ‘root beer float’.
If you’re ever in the area, I highly suggest taking the factory tour. It is free, open to everyone and anyone, and although you have to (depending on when you go) wait in long lines, and wear a funny little hat; it’s worth the complimentary jelly bean bag at the end and you can taste as many different flavors you’d like at the jellybean bar. If you’re lucky you’ll get more than one of your favorite flavor in you 50 flavor baggie.
So, what’s your favorite flavor?
I grew up in Fairfield, and I have fond memories of visiting the jelly belly factory. It was always so much fun. A couple of times, we got to go in the back and see them make them. Awesome!
Jen, you are amazing! I love you blog entries. You really know how to write! My favorite jelly belly is pear…or maybe popcorn…or maybe………..