This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Cherry Month (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Cherry Month is observed on February 1st.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Cherry Month, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as interesting facts you may want to know about National Cherry Month.
📅 What day is National Cherry Month 2024?
In 2024, National Cherry Month is on Wednesday, February 1st. It is the 1st Wednesday in February; in 2024, it is Thursday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the exciting details and facts about February 1, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
During the month of February, National Cherry Month celebrates the cherry, a highly regarded fruit. Cherries come in various types, flavors, and colors, offering a rich culinary experience. Beyond the common maraschino cherries, there is a whole world of sweet and sour cherries, ranging from vibrant red to stunning yellow. As we continue to observe National Cherry Month, it is essential to incorporate cherries into our menus.
📜 National Cherry Month History
Cherry production in the United States started in 1852 when Peter Dougherty began planting cherry trees in Michigan. The Midwest proved to be a favorable environment for cherries, leading to the establishment of large-scale cherry orchards in Michigan in 1893. Cherries quickly became a major crop, surpassing other agricultural products. The first cherry processing factory, Traverse City Canning Company, was established, and the fruit was distributed to nearby Midwest cities. Efforts were then made to expand cherry distribution throughout the country.
In 1912, Japan gifted the United States with 3,000 cherry trees as a symbol of friendship. This event, along with the fact that February is President’s Day and marks the birthday of George Washington, led to the designation of February as National Cherry Month. The cherry trees gifted by Japan were planted in a park in Washington, DC, which is still preserved today.
Legend has it that George Washington, the first president of the United States, confessed to chopping down a cherry tree on his family’s farm when his father inquired about it. This incident contributed to Washington’s reputation for honesty and trustworthiness in American folklore.
✅ National Cherry Month Facts
🔖 Japanese cherry blossom trees don’t produce fruit.
This particular tree, renowned for its stunning pink blooms, does not produce any fruit.
🔖 The average cherry tree is productive
One cherry tree can produce as many as 7,000 cherries.
🔖 George Washington’s fact may be fiction
It is possible that the tale of the first president of America, George Washington, confessing to chopping down a cherry tree was fabricated specifically for his autobiography.
👍 Why Is National Cherry Month Important
Cherries have been eaten for thousands of years across Europe and northern Africa. King Henry VIII, best known for his numerous wives and their various untimely deaths, is credited with introducing the fruit to England, from which it spread to America.
Isn’t it true that healthy food rarely tastes good? Wrong. Cherries include vitamins A, B, C, and E. To begin, these vitamins promote blood circulation, hair development, stress management, and cancer risk reduction. Multivitamins, take that.
Strawberries should start sweating because cherries can be baked, juiced, jammed, grilled, dried, and even incorporated into cocktails. Cherry ice cream, cherry jelly, cherry Coca-Cola, cherry cobbler, cherry barbecue sauce, and so on are all examples of cherry products. Are you hungry yet?
🙂 How To Observe National Cherry Month
⚡ Bake a pie!
Cherries are a fantastic fruit choice for baking, but there is no other dessert as famous and loved as a traditional cherry pie. It is a rich and sweet treat that highlights the simple cherry in a delightful way.
⚡ Serve yourself a glass of cold cherry juice.
A study conducted by the University of Vermont has found that cherries have properties that can reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort. They are highly beneficial for rehydrating the body after exercising.
⚡ Snack on cherries
Cherries are not only delicious but also a guilt-free treat. With just 87 calories per cup and a moderate amount of sugar, they are a good choice for those watching their weight and sugar intake. Additionally, tart cherries are rich in antioxidants, making them an ideal option for individuals who are conscious of their health. So, go ahead and enjoy cherries without any reservations!
📅 When is National Cherry Month?
| YEAR | DATE | DAY |
| 2024 | February 1 | Thursday |
| 2025 | February 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 1 | Tuesday |
View all 🔗 February holidays, including 🔗 Food & Beverage and other 🔗 Food holidays.
We will continue to update this page with new information and interesting facts about National Cherry Month. So be sure to check back soon.