National Pickle Day celebrates the beloved fermented cucumber that has been a staple of human cuisine for thousands of years. This tangy treat is honored annually as one of the world’s favorite preserved foods.
Quick Facts
- When is it: November 14th annually
- Tagged as: Food & Drink, Snacks & Desserts
- What’s the hashtag: #NationalPickleDay #PickleLoversUnite
- When was it founded: 1949
- Who founded it: National Pickle Packers Association
History of National Pickle Day
The celebration traces its roots to International Pickle Week, which began in 1949. The day honors the ancient preservation technique that started in Mesopotamia around 2030 BC. Pickles became essential for sailors, including Christopher Columbus’s crew, as a source of vitamin C to prevent scurvy.
Timeline
- 2030 BC: First recorded pickle making in Mesopotamia
- 900 AD: Dill introduced to Western Europe
- 1858: Mason jar invention revolutionizes home pickling
- 1949: First International Pickle Week celebration
- 2001: First modern National Pickle Day celebration in New York
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Nov 14 | Thursday |
| 2025 | Nov 14 | Friday |
| 2026 | Nov 14 | Saturday |
| 2027 | Nov 14 | Sunday |
| 2028 | Nov 14 | Tuesday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by eating different types of pickles, hosting pickle-tasting parties, trying pickle-themed recipes, and supporting local pickle vendors. Some even attempt pickle-eating challenges or create their own pickle varieties.
Fun Facts About Pickles
- Americans consume about 9 pounds of pickles per person annually
- Cleopatra claimed pickles enhanced her beauty
- George Washington had a collection of 400+ pickle varieties
- The Philadelphia Eagles credited pickle juice for a major victory in 2000
- The word “pickle” comes from the Dutch word “pekel”
Quiz
- What ancient ruler credited pickles for her beauty? (Answer: Cleopatra)
- How many pounds of pickles do Americans eat yearly? (Answer: 9 pounds per person)
- Who brought pickles to America? (Answer: Christopher Columbus)
FAQs
Q: Are pickles healthy?
A: Pickles are low in calories and high in vitamin K, though they can be high in sodium.
Q: Can you pickle other foods besides cucumbers?
A: Yes, almost any vegetable or fruit can be pickled.
Importance of National Pickle Day
This celebration recognizes the cultural significance of pickles in preserving food, their nutritional benefits, and their role in various cuisines worldwide.
Related
- International Pickle Week
- National Food Preservation Day
- World Food Day
- National Cucumber Day
- National Fermentation Day