National Fig Week: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Fig Week (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Fig Week is celebrated on November 1st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Fig Week, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as cool facts you should know about National Fig Week.

📅 What day is National Fig Week 2024?

In 2024, National Fig Week is on Wednesday, November 1st. It is the 1st Wednesday in November; in 2024, it is Friday. There are until the next observance. You also can explore all the fun details and facts about November 1, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Fig Week occurs annually from November 1 to 7. During this time, we have the opportunity to appreciate the often-overlooked fruit and explore its different varieties, delicious recipes, and numerous health benefits. It’s the perfect occasion to dust off your apron, gather your kitchen utensils, and create a wonderful fig-based dish. The beauty of figs is their versatility, as they can be incorporated into both sweet and savory meals. This week is dedicated to giving figs the recognition they deserve and uncovering more ways to enjoy and celebrate National Fig Week.

📜 National Fig Week History

Figs have been used in cooking since 2500 B.C. when the Sumerians discovered their edibility during the Neolithic period. However, it wasn’t until 1768 that figs were cultivated as a staple food for humans, when Spanish Franciscans introduced them to southern California, known as “Mission Fig.” This led to the establishment of various fig varieties in the United States, including Black Mission, Brown Turkey, Calimyrna, and Kadota figs, which are popular today.

In the 1800s, figs became highly favored by chefs and cooks for making jams due to the increasing use of sugar in culinary practices. The introduction of Fig Newtons, the first commercially marketed fig cookie in 1891, further boosted the demand for figs. This popularity extended beyond the cookie company, as home chefs started creating their own fig-inspired delicacies.

Figs are now recognized as one of the most versatile fruits globally. They can be enjoyed in both sweet and savory dishes, as desserts or as main courses. Whether you dine at restaurants or prepare them at home, make sure to savor the delightful sweetness of figs during National Fig Week.

✅ National Fig Week Facts

🔖 Figs hold moisture
Figs are well-known for their moisture-retaining properties, which make them an excellent ingredient for baking.

🔖 They are rich in calcium
Experts say that a cup of figs has an equal amount of calcium to a cup of milk.

🔖 The fig capital in the U.S.
California is responsible for cultivating all of the figs grown in the United States, earning it the title of the fig capital of America.

👍 Why Is National Fig Week Important

National Fig Week is a great reason to eat more figs! Their acidic, sweet, and fizzy tastes are just as enticing.

Figs are high in calcium and potassium. They aid in strengthening your bones while also providing you with energy for the entire day.

If you have figs at home, you’ll have an infinite supply of recipes to try. You may also eat them yourself! Either way, they’re excellent!

🙂 How To Observe National Fig Week

⚡ Cook a delicious savory lunch with figs
Figs are always a safe choice when it comes to preparing delicious meals. Whether you’re making fig-glistened pork chops or a Sunday roast with fig sauce, you can’t go wrong. Treat your loved ones to a special and distinctive dinner that will surprise and delight them.

⚡ Bake your fig cookies
Why not mark National Fig Week by indulging in some classic fig cookies? Explore the internet and find the ideal recipe to satisfy your sweet cravings!

⚡ Host a party
Indulge in the delightful combination of nuts and figs infused in a delicious cheese. This is perfect for snacking on during social gatherings, especially as finger foods. For the ultimate savory experience, be sure to pair it with your preferred wine.

📅 When is National Fig Week?

View all 🔗 November holidays, including 🔗 Food & Beverage and other 🔗 Appreciation holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about National Fig Week. So be sure to check back soon.