- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- Beverage
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every February 17
- Holiday emoji:
- ☕
National Café au Lait Day warms hearts every February 17, celebrating the classic French beverage of coffee and steamed milk. This delightful drink, known for its comforting simplicity, invites you to slow down and enjoy a moment of tranquility. Brew a fresh pot, froth some milk, and share your perfect cup with friends and family.
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Expected National Cafe au Lait Day Deals
While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that coffee shops and cafes often roll out special deals for National Café au Lait Day. Expect major chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’ to offer discounts on their milk-based coffee drinks, or perhaps even a limited-time café au lait blend. Independent coffee houses might feature unique takes on the classic, from flavored syrups to artisanal milk options. Brands like Nespresso and Keurig could run sales on coffee machines or pods, encouraging home brewing. Dairy companies such as Chobani might partner with cafes for milk-specific promotions. Even bakeware brands like Le Creuset could highlight their mugs and serving bowls. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as February 17 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Cafe au Lait Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalCafeAuLaitDay. Share photos of your favorite café au lait, whether homemade or from a local cafe.
TikTok
Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalCafeAuLaitDay. Create a short video demonstrating how to make a perfect café au lait or showcasing different serving styles.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalCafeAuLaitDay. Ask your followers to share their favorite café au lait memories or recipes.
National Cafe au Lait Day Hero
Alfred Peet
History of National Cafe au Lait Day
Coffee, a drink made from the seeds of the coffee plant (coffee beans) is said to have been discovered in Ethiopia, Kaffa province, a century ago when it was consumed as food before spreading to other parts of the world. However, it was when coffee arrived in Yemen that it became popular as a drink. From then the love for coffee began spreading throughout the Middle East to Europe by the 17th century and then to the rest of the world. Its preparation involves drying, roasting, and crushing the coffee beans.
The deliciousness of milk, according to popular belief, was first discovered way back in 8000 B.C. in Europe when milk from cows was used to make dairy products. European farmers are credited with milk’s origin. Recent findings from scientists however show dairy drinking began at least 6,000 years ago in Kenya and Sudan.
‘Cafe au Lait’ (meaning ‘coffee with hot milk’) originated in France back in the 1600s when the French introduced the mixing of milk with coffee. Although regularly confused with the Italian ‘caffè latte’, the difference is that while the latter is made with espresso, steamed milk, and some foam and can be served either hot or cold, ‘Cafe au Lait’ is made from freshly brewed coffee and steamed milk and must be served hot. Although the origin of Cafe au Lait Day is unknown, one cannot deny this beverage has delighted tons of taste buds! ‘Cafe au Lait’ is made with equal portions of coffee and milk and is usually light brown.
National Cafe au Lait Day timeline
Legend has it that thanks to Kaldi, being in the ancient coffee forest on the Ethiopian plateau, we get to enjoy coffee today.
Coffee is introduced in Paris by Suleyman Aga, the ambassador to the court of King Louis XIV of France.
The Boston Tea Party is held and many Americans switch from tea to drinking coffee as proof of patriotism.
Different countries embrace the richly flavored drink, becoming one of the world's most beloved drinks.
The Pike Place Starbucks store, Seattle, the U.S., aka Original Starbucks; the first Starbucks store is established.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Cafe au Lait Day
Local coffee shops and bakeries can celebrate National Café au Lait Day by offering special promotions on their signature café au lait, perhaps with a complimentary pastry pairing. Consider hosting a ‘Café au Lait Crawl’ with other local businesses, encouraging patrons to try different versions. Retailers selling coffee beans, mugs, or milk frothers can highlight these products with in-store displays and discounts, positioning them as essential tools for enjoying the perfect café au lait at home.
National Cafe au Lait Day FAQs
When is National Café au Lait Day?
In 2027, National Café au Lait Day is observed on Wednesday, February 17, providing a perfect hump-day treat to brighten your week.
How does café au lait differ from a caffè latte?
The primary distinction lies in the coffee base: café au lait relies on strong brewed coffee, creating a milder coffee flavor, whereas a caffè latte’s espresso base results in a more intense coffee profile. Ratios of milk also vary, with lattes generally having more milk.
Is café au lait traditionally served in a bowl?
The practice of serving café au lait in a bowl is a charming French custom, enhancing the communal and relaxed breakfast experience. While mugs are also used, the bowl remains a classic and beloved choice.
What is the origin of café au lait?
While its precise origin is debated, café au lait became a staple in French households and cafes, evolving as a comforting morning ritual. It embodies a less formal approach to coffee consumption compared to the more elaborate espresso-based drinks.
National Cafe au Lait Day Activities
Make your own ‘Café au Lait’
Bring a taste of Paris to your home by combining freshly brewed coffee with a coffee machine and steamed milk (the ratio depends on which flavor you're going for, whether stronger milk or coffee), add simultaneously, and serve in a small bowl.
Go grab a Café au Lait
Bored of being home? Visit the outdoors, treat you to a luxury ‘Café au Lait’, and have a blast.
Post the hashtags
Follow the hashtags #CaféauLait and #CaféauLaitDay and get to know what others are saying.
5 Facts About Coffee That Will Blow Your Mind
The most expensive coffee in the world
Right now, the world's most expensive coffee is Black Ivory Coffee, which goes for a jaw-dropping $1,000+ per pound on an average.
World's biggest coffee drinker
Finland, with a figure of 26.45 pounds per person per year, is the world's top coffee consumption per capita.
First coffee sold commercially
Nescafé, in 1879, became the first branded coffee to be sold commercially to the public.
Origin of mixing milk with coffee
Polish spy, Jerzy Franciszek Kulczycki, was one of the first people to open a café in Vienna in the 17th-century and come up with the mix.
‘Coffee’ word origin
The word ‘coffee’ is derived from the Arabic ‘qahwah,’ to Ottoman Turkish ‘kahve,’ to Dutch ‘koffie,’ and then in 1582, to the English language.
Why We Love National Cafe au Lait Day
It's a great way to experience culture
It presents the perfect way to have a feel of another culture without hitting the road or a plane.
It's super delicious
If you're looking for something to thrill your taste buds, Café au Lait Day presents a great option.
Cafe au Lait is packed with nutrition
Enjoy numerous amazing health benefits of both coffee and milk in a serving of Cafe au Lait.
National Cafe au Lait Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | February 17 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | February 17 | Thursday |
| 2029 | February 17 | Saturday |
| 2030 | February 17 | Sunday |
| 2031 | February 17 | Monday |
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