National Iced Tea Day celebrates one of America’s most beloved and refreshing beverages. This cherished drink combines the timeless appeal of traditional tea with a cooling twist that’s perfect for warm weather.
Quick Facts
When is it?: June 10th annually
Tagged as: Food & Drink, Beverage Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalIcedTeaDay
When was it founded?: 1904 (popularized)
Who founded it?: Richard Blechynden at the St. Louis World’s Fair
History
Iced tea emerged in the early 1800s as a cold, boozy punch made with green tea and liquor. However, it gained widespread popularity during the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis when Richard Blechynden served chilled tea to overheated fairgoers. During Prohibition, its popularity surged as Americans sought alternatives to alcoholic beverages.
Timeline
- 2737 BC: Traditional tea invented in China
- 1800s: First cold tea punches appear in America
- 1870: Hotels begin serving iced tea
- 1904: Iced tea popularized at St. Louis World’s Fair
- 1920-1933: Popularity surges during Prohibition
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | June 10 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | June 10 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | June 10 | Thursday |
| 2028 | June 10 | Saturday |
| 2029 | June 10 | Sunday |
Fun Facts About Iced Tea
- 85% of tea consumed in America is iced
- Switzerland pioneered commercially bottled iced tea
- Sweet tea became a Southern staple post-World War II
- The drink predates refrigeration, originally using stored winter ice
Quiz
- When was iced tea popularized?
- What percentage of American tea consumption is iced tea?
- Where was bottled iced tea first commercialized?
(Answers: 1. 1904, 2. 85%, 3. Switzerland)
FAQs
Q: Is iced tea healthy?
A: Unsweetened iced tea contains beneficial antioxidants and is a healthy alternative to sodas.
Q: What’s the difference between sweet and unsweet tea?
A: Sweet tea contains added sugar during brewing, while unsweet tea has no added sweeteners.
Importance of Iced Tea Day
This celebration recognizes a beverage that has become deeply embedded in American culture, particularly in Southern hospitality. It promotes awareness of tea’s health benefits and versatility as a refreshing drink.
Related
- National Hot Tea Day
- National Sweet Tea Day
- International Tea Day
- National Beverage Day
- National Lemonade Day