National Pawpaw Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Pawpaw Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Pawpaw Day is observed on September 21st.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Pawpaw Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you might want to know about National Pawpaw Day.

📅 What day is National Pawpaw Day 2024?

In 2024, National Pawpaw Day is on Thursday, September 21st. It is the 3rd Thursday in September; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the fun details and facts about September 21, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Pawpaw Day is a special day observed on the third Thursday of September to celebrate a unique fruit native to North America. The pawpaw fruit has a tropical appearance and a delicious flavor that combines the tastes of mango and banana, sometimes even resembling other fruits. Despite the presence of over 60 different varieties and its creamy texture, it is surprising that the pawpaw remains relatively unknown to many people.

📜 National Pawpaw Day History

During Hernando de Soto’s expedition in 1540, the Spanish first encountered the pawpaw fruit. It gained popularity in America as George Washington’s favorite dessert and was cultivated by Thomas Jefferson, who even brought pawpaw seeds to France. Lewis and Clark also relied on pawpaws for sustenance during their exploration of the American West. In times of scarcity, such as the Great Depression, the pawpaw was often consumed instead of other fruits. This earned it the nickname “poor man’s banana.” However, the pawpaw’s popularity declined after World War II when other exotic fruits became readily available. Its short shelf life made it difficult to store in large stores. Nevertheless, the pawpaw is still well-regarded for its unique texture and sweetness and can be found mainly in farmers’ markets today. Ohioans celebrate the Ohio Pawpaw Festival every September, where people can savor various pawpaw dishes, engage in contests and cookoffs, and appreciate this distinctly American fruit. To introduce the delicious, custard-like pawpaw to those who have never tried it, National Pawpaw Day was established. This seasonal fruit is best enjoyed from late August until the first frost, and with pawpaw samples available at markets and festivals across the country, there are ample opportunities to savor its flavor.

✅ National Pawpaw Day Facts

🔖 Pawpaw bread
When you mix pawpaw with a good amount of sugar and flour, it becomes a wonderful ingredient for cakes and quick breads.

🔖 Pawpaw beer
The demand for fruit-flavored beer is on the rise, and the distinct taste of pawpaw complements craft beers exceptionally well.

🔖 Pawpaw pudding
Switch out the bananas in your go-to banana pudding recipe for pawpaws, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the unique and delicate flavor they bring to the dessert!

👍 Why Is National Pawpaw Day Important

Although it was important in early American history until the mid-twentieth century, the pawpaw has almost been forgotten. National Pawpaw Day serves as a reminder to appreciate this delicious and versatile fruit.

The pawpaw is the largest native fruit in the United States, grows in many parts of the country, and tastes like it came from the tropics!

There are few fruits that have the creamy, custardy texture of the pawpaw. Have you ever tried something similar, such as cherimoya from Central America?

🙂 How To Observe National Pawpaw Day

⚡ Try cooking with pawpaws
Discover a unique recipe and give it a shot by creating pawpaw bread, fruit leather, or pudding using this delightful fruit.

⚡ Attend a Pawpaw Festival
Discover a wide array of annual celebrations and events dedicated to the pawpaw fruit, especially in areas where it is cultivated. Locate a nearby festival or activity to partake in the festivities.

⚡ Sample some pawpaws
Have you ever tasted pawpaws before? If not, you should visit your nearby farmers’ markets and explore the variety of pawpaws available for you to try.

📅 When is National Pawpaw Day?

Explore all 🔗 September holidays, including 🔗 Food & Beverage and other 🔗 Fruit holidays.

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