International Tea Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about International Tea Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. International Tea Day is celebrated on December 15th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of International Tea Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as interesting facts you should know about International Tea Day.

📅 What day is International Tea Day 2024?

In 2024, International Tea Day is on Friday, December 15th. It is the 3rd Friday in December; in 2024, it is Sunday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the exciting details and facts about December 15, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Move aside, coffee and Coca-Cola; December 15 is a special day known as International Tea Day where people all over the world come together to appreciate and enjoy the most popular beverage on the planet. This day not only aims to raise awareness about the impact of the tea trade on farmers and employees, but it is also a time for tea lovers to celebrate. Fun fact: did you know that tea originated in China and was primarily used for medicinal purposes until the 17th century when it made its way to the United Kingdom? There are various types of tea such as black, green, white, herbal, oolong, and pu’erh. While this holiday has been recognized since 2005, the United Nations added another International Tea Day on May 21, 2019. Of course, we celebrate both because who wouldn’t want to enjoy twice the amount of tea?

📜 International Tea Day History

Dutch traders introduced tea to Europe in the 16th century, and its popularity grew due to the establishment of the East India Company in England. This led to tea becoming a highly traded commodity. Tea not only offers flavor and health benefits, but it also has a significant impact on cultural and social development. It supports the livelihoods of millions of people across various countries where it is grown.

International Tea Day, initiated by trade unions in 2005, aims to promote the health benefits, economic importance, and cultural significance of tea. Additionally, it encourages more sustainable practices throughout the tea production process. The holiday brings together various stakeholders, including civil society groups, small tea producers, and businesses, to address issues such as unfair competition, safety standards, land rights, social security, livable wages, and women’s rights for tea workers.

This occasion is marked by seminars, public campaigns, and lectures to enhance the regulations and practices of tea farmers’ groups. Tea culture is highly regarded by enthusiasts, and it serves as a significant export crop for the countries involved in its production.

✅ International Tea Day Facts

🔖 The Most Expensive Tea in the World
China is home to the priciest tea in the world, known as “The Big Red Robe,” which costs a staggering $1.2 million for every kilogram.

🔖 What a Novel-tea!
The accidental occurrence of a mishap with silk-wrapped tea samples led to the creation of the initial teabags in the year 1908.

🔖 Small Wonder
It is quite astonishing that despite there being more than 20,000 different types of tea worldwide, the tea plant, Camellia sinensis, only has six varieties from which the leaves are derived.

👍 Why Is International Tea Day Important

Every location in the world has its own unique method of consuming tea. Tea’s traditions and culture are genuinely ageless, dating back 4000 years, and include distinct ingredients and practices that should be honored.

Tea is delicious, but its manufacture and extraction are time-consuming. A huge working population in many nations depends on the tea business for a living. Awareness of this, as well as advocacy for equitable treatment of workers, is critical for reducing societal damage and ensuring tea’s long-term sustainability.

We support female empowerment, and the tea business exemplifies the daring and fearless workforce of women who continue to create delicious drinks for aficionados all around the world. Unfortunately, these women are frequently not provided with acceptable working conditions and lack access to basic education. Donating to and supporting programs that benefit these women is critical.

🙂 How To Observe International Tea Day

⚡ Learn about your local tea producers.
Having knowledge about the process of obtaining and manufacturing your preferred tea blend is beneficial. If a company mistreats its employees with unfair policies, it is advisable to contemplate switching to another brand.

⚡ Try a new flavor
Experience a variety of refreshing tea flavors, ranging from mint and apple to an exciting blend of different elements!

⚡ Host a tea party
Invite everyone in the group to come together and host a delightful tea party! You have the option to create various tea blends or even choose a specific theme, like a traditional English tea party.

📅 When is International Tea Day?

Discover all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Food & Beverage and other 🔗 Awareness holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about International Tea Day. So be sure to check back soon.