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