National Nut Day

Happy person cracking open a mixed assortment of nuts, wearing an apron, surrounded by autumn leaves.. — National nut day illustration

It's a nutty world out there, especially on National Nut Day, an observance that takes us on a cracking adventure into the shell-covered realm of some of our favorite snacks. Held annually on October 22nd, this day has been bringing together the nut-lovers of the internet since it started gaining momentum in 2016, with chatter peaking like a walnut tree full of squirrels.

When is Nut Day?

It's national nut day on the 22nd October.

A Nutty History

The origins of National Nut Day are as hard to crack as a hazelnut without a nutcracker. It seems to be a creation of the 21st century, with the first substantial online mention occurring from around 2010 onwards. However, it was not until the year 2016 that the holiday truly gained popularity with a whopping 27879 mentions online. The most mentions were observed on 22nd October, which is considered the official date of the observance.

A Mixed Bag of Fun

From the nutrient-packed almond and the creamy cashew to the beloved peanut (technically a legume, but we're not picky), each nut has its own unique taste and texture that adds to our culinary experience. The advent of National Nut Day has only broadened our appreciation, spurring nutty creativity in kitchens worldwide.

Going Nuts Online

Every year, as October 22nd rolls around, the internet explodes into a virtual nut festival. Social media is awash with photos of nutty dishes, nut-inspired art, and even nut-related puns. It is a shell-ebration like no other, allowing us to appreciate this crunchy snack and its role in our diets and lives.

History behind the term 'Nut'

14th century

Origins in Old English

The term 'nut' can be traced back to the 14th century in Old English, where it was spelled as 'hnutu.' It referred to the hard-shelled fruit of various trees and plants, which included almonds, walnuts, and chestnuts. This term has its roots in the Germanic language family, specifically from the Proto-Germanic word 'hnuta.'

17th century

Expanded Definition

During the 17th century, the term 'nut' gained a more specific meaning, referring primarily to the edible seed or fruit enclosed in a hard shell. This expanded definition encompassed various types of nuts, such as pecans, pistachios, and hazelnuts. The use of 'nut' to describe these seeds spread throughout the English-speaking world.

19th century

Nutcrackers Become Popular

In the 19th century, the popularity of nutcrackers rose significantly. These devices were invented specifically to aid in cracking open the hard shells of nuts, allowing people to access the edible portion inside. Nutcrackers became a common tool during the holiday season, particularly for cracking open walnuts and hazelnuts. The term 'nut' became further associated with these delicious treats.

20th century

Nut Allergies

In the 20th century, the term 'nut' took on a different connotation with the emergence and awareness of nut allergies. Allergies to various types of nuts, such as peanuts, became prevalent in many individuals. The term 'nut' now carries a cautionary meaning, as it reminds people of the potential allergic reactions some individuals may experience due to specific nuts.

Present Day

Cultural Symbolism and Culinary Delights

Today, the term 'nut' continues to hold cultural significance and culinary appeal. Nuts are commonly associated with health benefits, being a source of protein, healthy fats, and various vitamins and minerals. They are featured in a wide array of dishes, desserts, and snacks across different cuisines worldwide. Additionally, the term 'nut' is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is eccentric or slightly crazy, adding a whimsical touch to its linguistic usage.