National Pineapple Day

Young woman enjoying a juicy pineapple slice on a sunny beach, wearing a colorful floral dress, surrounded by tropical palm trees.. — National pineapple day illustration

Welcome pineapple lovers! It's that time of year again when we swap our apples and oranges for the taste of the tropics. National Pineapple Day, celebrated every June 27th, is the one day we all agree that pineapples aren't just for fruit salads and tropical drinks—brace yourselves for a sweet, tangy blast of tropical party in your mouth!

When is Pineapple Day?

It's national pineapple day on the 27th June.

A Brief Hist-Pineapple-ry

The appreciation of this succulent, juicy fruit isn't new. In fact, Columbus and his crew are said to have been the first Europeans to taste this fruit back in the late 1400s. But it wasn't until June 27, 2018, when the world wide web went above and beyond in its pineapple love, logging a whopping 3783 mentions! Who wouldn't fall head over heels for this fantastic fruit?

Pineapple Day Celebrations

While there’s no official creator or origin of National Pineapple Day, it’s been embraced by pineapple lovers and celebrated in a variety of ways. Some bake pineapples into upside-down cakes or blend them into pina coladas. Others just love to enjoy them straight out of the fridge, cool and refreshing on a summer’s day. But food aside, the day stands as a testament to the joy this tropical fruit brings in our lives.

Symbol of Welcome

Did you know that the pineapple has been a longstanding symbol of hospitality because of its rarity and the journey it used to take to arrive at one's doorstep in the olden days?

No SpongeBob Here!

And don't even get us started on how many of you, deep down, celebrate this day just because of a certain squarepants-wearing, underwater dweller's abode. Well, we don't blame you; we too sing the theme song under our breath on this day!

History behind the term 'Pineapple'

1493

Introduction to Europe

During Christopher Columbus' second voyage to the Americas, he encountered the pineapple for the first time in the Caribbean island of Guadeloupe. The fruit's unique appearance and delicious taste amazed Columbus and his crew. They brought back several pineapples to Europe, introducing the exotic fruit to the continent.

1664

Royal Treat in Europe

Pineapples became a symbol of wealth, luxury, and hospitality in Europe during the 17th century. King Charles II of England was presented with the first pineapple grown in England, which was considered a great achievement at the time. Pineapples were rare and expensive in Europe, and displaying one at a gathering became a symbol of prestige.

1750

Pineapple Plantations

Pineapple plantations started to emerge in the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica, due to the fruit's high demand in Europe. These plantations, known as pineapple gardens, played a significant role in the colonial economy. The cultivation of pineapples expanded further in Hawaii, where the ideal tropical climate allowed for large-scale production.

1901

Symbol of Hospitality

The symbol of pineapple as a welcoming and hospitable gesture became more prominent during the early 20th century. Pineapple motifs were incorporated into various architectural designs, furniture, and decor. In the United States, particularly in the Southern states, pineapples were used as a welcoming symbol on door knockers, serving as a sign of friendship and good hospitality.

1960s

Canned and Consumed Worldwide

With advancements in technology, the canning industry made pineapples easily accessible to people all over the world. Canned pineapple became a popular ingredient in various recipes, including desserts, cocktails, and savory dishes. The tropical fruit started to gain popularity due to its sweet and tangy flavor, making it a staple in households worldwide.

Present Day

Cultivation and Global Demand

Today, pineapples are grown in many tropical regions around the world, with countries like Thailand, the Philippines, and Costa Rica being major producers. Pineapple remains a significant tropical fruit, beloved for its refreshing taste and versatility. It is used in a wide range of culinary creations, from salads and smoothies to pizzas and cocktails.