National Cabbage Day is a special day dedicated to celebrating one of the most versatile and nutritious vegetables in the world: cabbage. This leafy green has been a staple in global cuisine for thousands of years, offering a range of flavors and health benefits. Whether you enjoy it raw, fermented, or cooked, cabbage deserves its moment in the spotlight!
Quick Facts
- When is it?: February 17
- Tagged as: Food, Vegetables, Health
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalCabbageDay
- When was it founded?: Exact founding date unknown, but celebrated annually
- Who founded it?: Unknown
History of National Cabbage Day
Cabbage has a long history dating back over 6,000 years, with origins in Asia and the Mediterranean. It became an essential part of European diets during the Middle Ages and was later introduced to North America by European settlers. Over time, cabbage has been embraced for its versatility and nutritional value. While the exact origins of National Cabbage Day are unclear, it was likely created to honor this underappreciated vegetable that plays a significant role in many cultures’ cuisines.
Timeline
- 4000 B.C.: Cabbage is domesticated in the Eastern Mediterranean.
- 1541: French explorer Jacques Cartier introduces cabbage to North America.
- 17th Century: Cabbage becomes a staple food in Europe.
- February 17, 2016: National Cabbage Day sees a surge in online mentions.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Feb | 17 | Monday |
| 2026 | Feb | 17 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | Feb | 17 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | Feb | 17 | Thursday |
| 2029 | Feb | 17 | Saturday |
Observed on February 17
National Cabbage Day is observed annually on February 17. It’s a day to appreciate cabbage’s versatility and health benefits by cooking your favorite cabbage dishes or learning more about its history.
Fun Facts About Cabbage
- In Ancient Rome, cabbage was considered a luxury food.
- The Greek philosopher Diogenes reportedly survived on cabbage and water.
- In Ancient China, cabbage was thought to cure baldness.
- The largest cabbage dish ever made weighed over 6,500 pounds!
- Babe Ruth used to wear cabbage leaves under his baseball cap for good luck.
Quiz
- What is the botanical name for cabbage?
- Which country eats seven times more cabbage than North America?
- What famous baseball player wore cabbage leaves under his hat?
- What causes the unpleasant smell when cooking cabbage?
- When did red varieties of cabbage first appear in England?
(Answers: Brassica oleracea; Russia; Babe Ruth; Sulfur compounds; 1500s)
FAQs
- Why is National Cabbage Day celebrated?
National Cabbage Day celebrates the importance of this nutritious vegetable in various cuisines around the world. - What are some popular dishes made with cabbage?
Popular dishes include coleslaw, kimchi, sauerkraut, and stuffed cabbage rolls.
Importance of National Cabbage Day
Cabbage is more than just a side dish; it’s a powerhouse of nutrients like vitamin C and fiber. Its affordability and versatility make it accessible to people worldwide. Celebrating National Cabbage Day helps raise awareness about its health benefits and cultural significance.
Related Days
- National Brussels Sprouts Day
- National Sauerkraut Day
- Eat Your Vegetables Day