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TueMay 21

International Tea Day – May 21, 2024

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

15th Century
Chanoyu

The traditional tea-drinking ceremony in Japan (also known as ‘chado’) develops.

1610
Tea in Europe

The Dutch and Portuguese introduce tea to England.

1823
Tea in India

Commercial tea plantations start in Assam, India.

1901
Tea Bags

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

  1. 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.

  2. 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!

  3. 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

  1. There are many varieties of tea

    There are as many as 3,000 varieties of tea.

  2. Tea has weird additives

    Some types of tea have additives like twigs, sawdust, and sheep dung.

  3. Tea is a diuretic

    This means tea makes you need to urinate.

  4. Timing is crucial

    The perfect cup of black tea takes three to five minutes to steep.

  5. Ceramic teapots arrived in Europe

    Ceramic teapots arrived in Europe in the 16th century.

Why We Love International Tea Day

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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

YearDateDay
2024May 21Tuesday
2025May 21Wednesday
2026May 21Thursday
2027May 21Friday
2028May 21Sunday

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