National California Strawberry Day falls on March 21 and you bet it’s the perfect holiday for nutrition lovers to bask in the fruity deliciousness of one of the world’s favorite fruits — strawberries! A whole day dedicated to strawberries? Why not? Not only does this yummy heart-shaped fruit warm countless hearts and delight bellies, but it’s also packed with goodness benefiting our heart, skin, brain, and much more. National California Strawberry Day was birthed in 1983 by the California Strawberry Advisory Board (now California Strawberry Commission) in celebration of strawberries, which can be enjoyed in a variety of recipes.
History of National California Strawberry Day
We all know strawberries rank among the world’s preferred fruits right now but did you know the existence of strawberries can be traced back centuries? According to popular belief, there are traces of strawberry plants in ancient Rome in 234 B.C., their use then was medicinal — they were used to treat depression, fever, kidney stones, and sore throats. By the 14th century B.C., the tiny rare fruit was cultivated in France. In America, the Europeans first discovered strawberries in 1588. However, the variants of strawberries enjoyed today differ from the earlier ones. In 1712, native strawberries landed in France from Chile they were crossed with European strawberries, and the result was the delicious, large berries enjoyed today.
The small bright, juicy, red strawberry, scientific name — Fragaria ananassa, rumored to be berries just like blackberries and raspberries aren’t really in the botanical sense of the word as they are derived from a single flower with more than one ovary, as compared to true berries from one flower and an ovary with several seeds. Examples of true berries are blueberries, gooseberries, cranberries, grapes, tomatoes, bananas, and peppers.
Strawberries are reputed to deliver a world of goodness: Wade off cancer, boost immunity, boost eye, and brain health, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, among numerous benefits are loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Plus, strawberries seat comfortably as a low-calorie food too which helps with weight loss. Strawberries are also a highlight as they are dubbed as one of spring’s first fruits.
National California Strawberry Day timeline
The strawberry plant is first found in ancient Rome but is used for medicinal purposes.
In America, the Fragaria virginiana, a species of strawberry native to North America, is found.
Owing to a French excursion to Chile, the widely grown garden strawberry is born.
Fresh strawberries become a luxury, being served with cream, and champagne, among other delicacies.
National California Strawberry Day FAQs
How old is the oldest strawberry?
The royal sovereign dates back to 1892 and is one of the oldest varieties of strawberries that still delights households to date.
What is the sweetest variant of strawberry?
The Alpine Strawberry, also known as the wild strawberry, is small, and super sweet with a distinct flavor; it is easy to cultivate too. Such a delight.
What’s a fun fact about strawberries?
Strawberries belong to the rose family. It’s little wonder they smell just as nice too.
National California Strawberry Day Activities
Learn a new recipe
Strawberries come in about 600 varieties and can be enjoyed in plenty of ways; you could try the easy strawberry milkshake, perfect for any time of the day. All you need is frozen strawberries, milk, strawberry ice cream, whipped cream, and of course, strawberries.
Enjoy a strawberry treat
There are lots and lots of options out there; strawberry sweets, strawberry ice cream, strawberry cakes, chocolate-covered strawberries, and strawberry shortbread cookies. Let your heart guide you!
Pick your strawberry
The sunny weather brings the perfect opportunity to be outdoors picking your summer fruits — strawberries. Quick tip, mornings are best to pick and don’t forget to give yourself a treat once done.
5 Awesome Facts About Strawberries
The first fruits to ripen in spring
Strawberries and honeyberries are known as the first fruits to ripen with the welcome of spring.
Strawberries are a terrific aphrodisiac
Just like chocolate, strawberries are known to boost mood, increase libido, and heighten pleasure.
Strawberries were a symbol of love
In ancient Rome, strawberries were regarded as the symbol of Venus, the goddess of love.
Strawberries stand out
Strawberries are the only fruit with seeds on the outside and that disqualifies them as berries.
California is a major producer
California produces more than 80% of strawberries consumed in North America.
Why We Love National California Strawberry Day
Strawberries are super delicious
This nature’s delight is yummy and can be eaten in a variety of ways. Indulge in smoothies, puddings, ice cream, cake, breakfast fruits, desserts, or after-dinner snacks, depending on your preference.
It’s the perfect healthy snack
Strawberries are low in calories so we don’t have to worry about packing extra pounds while enjoying the treat that provides tons of nutritional benefits. We love this!
Strawberries are symbolic
The delicious treat has long been associated with purity, love, fertility, and rebirth. Go ahead, gift your loved one some strawberries today!
National California Strawberry Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | March 21 | Friday |
| 2026 | March 21 | Saturday |
| 2027 | March 21 | Sunday |
| 2028 | March 21 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | March 21 | Wednesday |
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