National Opal Apples Day celebrates a unique apple variety known for its bright yellow color, sweet-tangy flavor, and remarkable natural non-browning properties. This special day honors the Opal apple, a cross between Golden Delicious and Topaz varieties.
Quick Facts
When is it?: December 9
Tagged as: Food Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalOpalAppleDay
When was it founded?: 2022
Who founded it?: FirstFruits Farms
History of National Opal Apples Day
The Opal apple was first discovered in Europe in 1999. FirstFruits Farms obtained exclusive North American rights to grow this non-GMO verified apple in 2010. The company established this national day to celebrate the apple’s unique qualities and promote awareness of its health benefits.
Timeline
- 1999: Opal apples discovered in Europe
- 2010: North American rights obtained
- 2021: Sent to International Space Station
- 2021: Featured at Paris Hilton’s wedding
- 2022: First National Opal Apples Day celebrated
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Dec 9 | Monday |
| 2025 | Dec 9 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | Dec 9 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | Dec 9 | Thursday |
| 2028 | Dec 9 | Saturday |
Observed
The day is celebrated through apple tastings, baking events, and special promotions at grocery stores nationwide. Many people participate by trying new Opal apple recipes or visiting orchards.
Fun Facts About Opal Apples
- Naturally resistant to browning
- Available from November through June
- Rich in vitamin C and beta-carotene
- Verified non-GMO product
- Exclusively grown in the United States
Quiz
- What color are Opal apples?
- Which two apple varieties were crossed to create Opals?
- In which year were Opal apples discovered?
(Answers: 1. Yellow 2. Golden Delicious and Topaz 3. 1999)
FAQs
- Are Opal apples GMO? No, they’re non-GMO verified
- When are they in season? November through June
- Where are they grown? Exclusively in the United States
Importance of National Opal Apples Day
This celebration raises awareness about this unique apple variety while promoting healthy eating habits and supporting sustainable farming practices through FirstFruits Farms’ community initiatives.
Related
- National Apple Day
- National Apple Pie Day
- National Fresh Fruit Day
- National Agriculture Day
- World Food Day