International Tea Day is celebrated every year on May 21. On this day, tea lovers unite in celebration of their favorite beverage. International Tea Day also promotes ways to sustain the production and consumption of tea. On this day, we can also learn of the importance of tea in combating hunger and poverty. You might be surprised to know that tea is the most loved beverage for millions worldwide. Every second, people consume 25,000 cups of tea, meaning more than two billion cups of tea are consumed per day. If you want to celebrate in style, check out our guide to gifts for tea lovers.
History of International Tea Day
In 2005, tea-producing countries came together to celebrate International Tea Day. These countries were Sri Lanka, Nepal, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, and Uganda. In 2019, the Intergovernmental Group on Tea decided to celebrate International Tea Day on May 21. The U.N. said yes to the celebrations on December 21, 2019. The first official U.N. International Tea Day was celebrated on May 21, 2020.
Projections show that as the world population increases, so will the number of tea drinkers. Tea enjoys great popularity in India and China. These two countries alone account for 37% of the world’s total population, meaning a substantial number of tea lovers reside in India and China. According to legend, Emperor Shen Hung of China discovered tea when leaves from a tree blew into his pot of boiling water. He loved the hot liquid and humanity has not looked back ever since.
Besides drinking it for taste, there are quite a few health benefits of tea drinking. Tea contains antioxidants that reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, aid with weight loss, protect the bones, prevent tooth loss, boost the immune system, help battle cancer, soothe the digestive system, and relax the body. Habitual tea drinkers are also less likely to die prematurely. Habitual tea drinkers drink the beverage at least three times a week. Green tea seems to have more health benefits than black tea.
International Tea Day timeline
The traditional tea-drinking ceremony in Japan (also known as ‘chado’) develops.
The Dutch and Portuguese introduce tea to England.
Commercial tea plantations start in Assam, India.
The first tea bags are called “tea leaf holders,” and they are patented by Roberta Lawson and Mary Molaren.
International Tea Day FAQs
Is tea good for you?
Numerous studies have shown that a variety of teas may boost your immune system, fight off inflammation, and even ward off cancer and heart disease.
Which is healthier between coffee and tea?
Coffee has its advantages, but tea wins in the war of antioxidants. While green tea is most commonly associated with antioxidants, white tea actually contains more. Coffee also contains antioxidants, but in a much lower concentration than white tea.
Which tea is most healthy?
Green tea is often touted as the healthiest tea. It is chock full of polyphenols and antioxidants that help to boost brain and heart health. Green tea is considered one of the least processed true teas as it does not undergo oxidation.
International Tea Day Activities
Drink tea
The obvious and best way to celebrate International Tea Day is by drinking tea. Brew your favorite flavors and drink them throughout the day. Pair your meals with a tall drink of tea.
Experiment with flavors
We all have our favorite tea flavors, but how about experimenting with new flavors on International Tea Day? You can try herbal teas, floral teas, matcha teas, and many others!
Organize a high tea service
Organize a high tea service on International Tea Day. Invite your friends and you can also have a small tea-tasting party! Do not forget to stock up on cakes, scones, and sandwiches!
5 Fun Facts About Tea
There are many varieties of tea
There are as many as 3,000 varieties of tea.
Tea has weird additives
Some types of tea have additives like twigs, sawdust, and sheep dung.
Tea is a diuretic
This means tea makes you need to urinate.
Timing is crucial
The perfect cup of black tea takes three to five minutes to steep.
Ceramic teapots arrived in Europe
Ceramic teapots arrived in Europe in the 16th century.
Why We Love International Tea Day
It’s the world's favorite beverage
More than two billion cups of tea are drunk every day! International Tea Day is a celebration of a beverage that is enjoyed worldwide and happens to be the most popular drink of all time.
A versatile drink
Like any other beverage, tea is a very diverse drink. You can drink it with milk or not, and it is also available in a variety of flavors. Its exceptional diversity is the reason why it is such a popular drink.
Good for the health
Tea is not only delicious but also has several health benefits. International Tea Day is also celebrated to raise awareness about the beverage and why more people should drink it.
International Tea Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 21 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | May 21 | Thursday |
| 2027 | May 21 | Friday |
| 2028 | May 21 | Sunday |
| 2029 | May 21 | Monday |
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