National Sugarbee Apple Day
National SugarBee Apple Day celebrates the unique SugarBee apple variety, known for its exceptional sweetness with distinct honey, caramel, and molasses notes. This special apple was discovered through natural cross-pollination between a Honeycrisp and an unknown variety.
Quick Facts
When is it?: May 20th annually
Tagged as: Food & Beverage Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #SugarBeeAppleDay
When was it founded?: 2023
Who founded it?: SugarBee apple growers of Washington state
History
The SugarBee apple’s story began in the early 1990s when Chuck Nystrom discovered this unique variety in Minnesota. It resulted from a serendipitous cross-pollination by a honeybee between a Honeycrisp blossom and an unknown apple variety. The apple’s exceptional taste and quality led to its commercial development, and eventually, the establishment of its national day.
Timeline
- Early 1990s: Chuck Nystrom discovers the SugarBee apple
- 2023: First National SugarBee Apple Day celebration
- 2024: Continued growth and recognition of the holiday
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 20 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | May 20 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | May 20 | Thursday |
| 2028 | May 20 | Saturday |
| 2029 | May 20 | Sunday |
| 2030 | May 20 | Monday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by enjoying fresh SugarBee apples, sharing their experiences on social media, and participating in various apple-themed activities. Many grocery stores and orchards offer special promotions and tastings on this day.
Fun Facts About SugarBee Apples
- They have a higher sugar content (14.6 Brix) than their parent Honeycrisp (13.8 Brix)
- Grown exclusively in Washington state’s elevated orchards
- Created naturally by honeybee pollination
- Features a unique combination of honey, caramel, and molasses flavors
Quiz
- What apple variety is one of SugarBee’s parent?
- In which state was SugarBee first discovered?
- What is SugarBee’s Brix level?
-(Answers: 1. Honeycrisp 2. Minnesota 3. 14.6)
FAQs
Q: Where can I find SugarBee apples?
A: They are available in major grocery stores across the United States.
Q: Are SugarBee apples seasonal?
A: While they’re harvested in fall, they’re typically available throughout much of the year.
Related
- National Apple Day (October 21)
- International Eat an Apple Day (September)
- National Apple Dumpling Day (September 17)
- World Apple Day