National Strawberry Month

National Strawberry Month is a delightful celebration that takes place every May, honoring one of the world’s most beloved fruits—strawberries. This month-long event is all about enjoying the sweet, juicy, and versatile berry in various delicious forms, from desserts to beverages.

Quick Facts

When is it?: May 1 – May 31
Tagged as: Food & Beverage, Health, Seasonal
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalStrawberryMonth
When was it founded?: Exact date unknown
Who founded it?: Origin unclear

History of National Strawberry Month

The history of National Strawberry Month is somewhat elusive. While the exact origins and founder remain unclear, the celebration aligns with strawberries’ peak season (April through June), making May the ideal month for this fruity festivity. The garden strawberry we enjoy today was created in Brittany, France, by crossing strawberries from North America and Chile. French explorer Amédée François Frézier introduced Europe to the larger Chilean strawberry, eventually leading to the modern strawberry we know and love.

Timeline

1700s: Garden strawberry created in Brittany, France.
1714: Amédée François Frézier introduces Fragaria chiloensis to France.
1800s: Popularity spreads throughout Europe and North America.
1900s: Commercial cultivation expands significantly in California and Florida.
2000s: Strawberries become widely recognized for their health benefits.

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	May 1 – 31	Thu – Sat
2026	May 1 – 31	Fri – Sun
2027	May 1 – 31	Sat – Mon
2027	May 1 – 31	Sat – Mon
2027	May 1 – 31	Sat – Mon
2028	May 1 – 31	Sun – Tue
2027	May 1 – 31	Mon – Wed

Observed

National Strawberry Month is celebrated primarily in the United States, highlighting strawberries’ peak season and promoting their culinary versatility and health benefits.

Fun Facts About National Strawberry Month

Strawberries are about four calories each.
Most U.S. strawberries are grown in California or Florida.
Strawberries belong to the rose family.
An average strawberry has about 200 seeds on its surface.
Strawberries were historically grown under straw to protect them from cold weather.

Quiz

How many seeds does an average strawberry have?
(Answers:* Approximately 200 seeds)

FAQs

Q: Why is National Strawberry Month celebrated in May?
A: Because strawberries reach their peak picking season from April through June.

Q: Are strawberries berries?
A: No, strawberries are technically not true berries; they’re part of the rose family.

Importance of National Strawberry Month

National Strawberry Month encourages people to appreciate strawberries’ nutritional value, versatility in recipes, and their role as a seasonal symbol of spring’s arrival.