Every year on July 31st, we pay homage to one of our most cherished fruits - the avocado. National Avocado Day is all about celebrating the numerous benefits that these tasty fruits offer us, ranging from their mouthwatering flavor to their rich nutritional value. It’s the perfect time for avocado lovers to indulge in their favorite avocado treats, share delightful recipes, and uncover the many culinary possibilities of avocados.
Let’s get ready to celebrate our shared affection for avocados on this special day, National Avocado Day!
History of National Avocado Day
Rooted in the verdant soils of south-central Mexico, avocados, originally named “ahuacatl” in the Aztec language, have a vibrant history dating as far back as 5000 B.C. These nutritious fruits were introduced to the wider world by the Spanish explorers in the 16th century.
The term “alligator pear”, another name for avocado, hints to its unique shape and the leathery exterior of certain types. However, it was only in the 20th century that the name “avocado” was universally used. Previously, in the US, people referred to it as “aaguacate”, a term later simplified to “avocado” by farmers.
In recognition of this fruit’s global appeal and incredible health benefits, National Avocado Day was established on July 31st. This special day found its roots in 2017, thanks to a proposal from Model Meals, a brand based in California.
National Avocado Day celebrates not just the deliciousness of this unique fruit, but also its rich nutrient profile, which includes dietary fiber, healthy fats, and vital vitamins and minerals. It invites everyone to enjoy avocados in innovative and diverse ways.
National Avocado Day Timeline
Cultivation Begins
Archaeologists believe that avocados were cultivated as early as 5000 BC in Central and South America.
Avocado Spread in Central and South America
Avocados spread to other parts of Central and South America.
Discovery by Europeans
Spanish Conquistadors are credited with discovering avocados when they invaded Central and South America.
Introduction to the United States
Avocados were introduced to the United States in Florida.
Introduction to California
Avocados were introduced to California from Mexico.
Avocado Boom
Avocado consumption dramatically increased in the United States during the 1950s as a result of marketing efforts and the rise of the 'California lifestyle'.
Inauguration of National Avocado Day
The very first National Avocado Day officially recognized in the United States, thanks to the Millennial's love for avocado toast.
Ideas to Celebrate National Avocado Day
Avocado Tasting Party
Invite your friends or family for an avocado tasting party where you serve different avocado dishes like guacamole, avocado toast, salads, and even avocado-based desserts!
Guacamole-Making Contest
Challenge your friends or colleagues to a fun guacamole-making contest. The one who can whip up the best-tasting or most creative guacamole gets a fun prize.
Go Green Smoothie Day
Celebrate National Avocado Day by making a variety of delicious health-packed green avocado smoothies. Try different combinations with fruits and veggies.
Support Local Farmers
Buy avocados directly from local farmers or farmer's markets. This supports local agriculture and provides the freshest avocados for your celebration.
Health Talk
Organize a health talk or webinar focusing on the benefits of avocados. You can invite a nutritionist or health expert to shed light on the nutritional value of avocados.
8 Interesting Facts About Avocados
Aztec Aphrodisiac
Avocados were considered a symbol of love and fertility among the Aztecs, as they grow in pairs and were believed to have aphrodisiac properties.
Green Gold
Avocado is often referred to as 'green gold' due to its high demand, price, and the immense health benefits it offers.
High Nutritional Content
Avocados are incredibly nutritious. They're rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamin C, vitamin E, B-vitamins, potassium, and they contain more potassium than bananas.
Avocados and Pears
Avocados are also known as alligator pears because of their shape and the skin’s texture.
Heaviest Avocado
The heaviest avocado ever recorded by the Guinness World Records weighed in at 5 pounds and 8 ounces, and was grown in Hawaii in 2018.
Avocado Ice Cream
In Brazil, avocado is commonly added to ice cream. The creamy texture of the fruit makes it a perfect ingredient for this sweet treat.
Number of Varieties
There are more than 500 varieties of avocados globally, from the popular Hass avocado to the less known Reed and Zutano varieties.
The Great Producers
Mexico is the world's largest producer of avocados, contributing to about 30% of the global supply.
National Avocado Day FAQs
Next National Avocado Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | July 31st | Monday |
| 2024 | July 31st | Wednesday |
| 2025 | July 31st | Thursday |
| 2026 | July 31st | Friday |
| 2027 | July 31st | Saturday |
| What is the pattern? | Every July 31st | |
National Avocado Day Word Search
- Avocado
- Guacamole
- Nutrition
- Ripen
- Green
- Creamy