National Pecan Day – Apr. 14, 2027

National Pecan Day
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Healthy Food
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United States
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Every April 14
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National Pecan Day celebrates the uniquely American pecan every April 14. This versatile nut, a favorite of founding fathers, offers both rich flavor and impressive nutritional benefits. Discover delicious recipes, explore its history, and find new ways to enjoy pecans in all their forms.

Want to sponsor National Pecan Day? Learn how

Expected National Pecan Day Deals

While we wait for official 2027 promotions to drop, history shows that National Pecan Day often brings sweet deals from bakeries, grocery stores, and specialty nut shops. Look for discounts on pecan pies from chains like Costco and Whole Foods Market, or special offers on raw and roasted pecans from brands such as Fisher Nuts and Millican Pecan. Gourmet food retailers like Harry & David might feature pecan-based gift baskets, while local bakeries could offer limited-time pecan pastries. Keep an eye out for promotions from Trader Joe’s and Kroger on their baking aisle pecans. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as April 14 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Pecan Day

TikTok

Tag @www.nationaltoday.com and use #NationalPecanDay. Share your favorite pecan recipe or a creative pecan-based snack.

Instagram

Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalPecanDay. Post visually appealing photos or reels of pecan dishes, from pies to salads.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalPecanDay. Ask your community to share their best pecan-inspired baking tips.

Social Media Tips for National Pecan Day

Individuals

Bake a classic pecan pie, create a savory pecan-crusted dish, or simply enjoy a handful of roasted pecans. Share your culinary creations with friends and family.

Creators

Develop a unique pecan-focused recipe video, host a live baking session, or create a 'pecan fact' series highlighting the nut's history and health benefits.

Brands

Run a special promotion on pecan products, collaborate with a food influencer for a recipe contest, or share behind-the-scenes content of your pecan sourcing and preparation.

Top Brands for National Pecan Day

  1. Fisher Nuts

    Founded in 1920, Fisher Nuts is a leading brand of recipe nuts, baking ingredients, and snack nuts. They are widely recognized for their high-quality pecans, walnuts, and almonds, essential for home bakers and chefs.

  2. Millican Pecan

    A family-owned business with a legacy dating back to the 1880s, Millican Pecan is renowned for growing and selling premium pecans. They offer a variety of pecan products, including shelled pecans, candied pecans, and gift baskets.

  3. Georgia Pecan Growers Association

    The Georgia Pecan Growers Association represents the largest pecan-producing state in the U.S. Established to promote the industry, they provide resources and support to growers, ensuring the quality and availability of Georgia pecans.

  4. Trader Joe's

    Founded in 1967 in Pasadena, California, Trader Joe's is a popular grocery chain known for its unique and affordable food products. They offer a wide selection of nuts, including various forms of pecans, catering to health-conscious consumers and home cooks.

  5. Pecan Deluxe Candy Company

    Established in 1950, Pecan Deluxe Candy Company is a global leader in manufacturing ingredients for the ice cream, dairy, and bakery industries. They specialize in high-quality pecan inclusions, toppings, and other confectionery components.

  6. Schermer Pecans

    With roots stretching back to 1946, Schermer Pecans is a prominent grower and supplier of premium pecans from their orchards in Georgia. They are known for their fresh, flavorful pecans, available in various grades and quantities for both consumers and businesses.

  7. Southern Living

    Launched in 1966, Southern Living is a lifestyle magazine and brand that celebrates the best of Southern culture, food, and homes. They frequently feature recipes and articles highlighting pecans, a staple ingredient in Southern cuisine.

National Pecan Day Hero

George Washington

The first President of the United States, George Washington, was a known admirer of pecans. He reportedly planted pecan trees at his Mount Vernon estate, reflecting the nut's early appreciation in American history. His interest helped popularize pecans among early Americans, solidifying their place in the nation's culinary landscape. Washington's agricultural pursuits extended to many crops, but his documented fondness for pecans underscores their unique appeal.

History of National Pecan Day

On National Pecan Day, America celebrates the only nut native to its land. Pecans are a much-celebrated nut of America, used in deserts, icecreams, and snacks.

Centuries before European colonization, pecans were cultivated, processed, and consumed in America by Native people. The word ‘pecan’ is derived from the word ‘pacane,’ used by the Algonquin tribe to describe a nut that needs a stone to crack open. The tribes valued pecan for its nutrition density, availability, ease of consumption, and fulfilling taste.

In the late 17th century, the native nut caught the eye of Spanish colonists, who began cultivating large pecan orchards in the vicinity. But it wasn’t until the 18th century that the commercialization of pecans picked up the pace in the United States. By 1802, formal selling routes were established, and pecan export had commenced.

In 1882, a hybrid fruit via the budding of pecan and an adjacent wild plant was created by Abner Landrum, a cultivator from South Carolina. This resultant nut was considered to be an upgraded version of pecan. Although the hybrid seeds of Abner got lost in time, in 1876, the process of grafting was recreated by Antoine, a slave from Louisiana. Antoine presented his discovery at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition in 1976 and thus began farming a new and improved variety of pecans throughout the country.

Today, America is responsible for three quarters of pecan production in the world. From the summer lanes of Texas to the sunny pavements of California, pecan cultivation is a year-long endeavor for thousands of American farmworkers.

In 1996, the National Pecan Shellers Association members came together to establish April 14 as National Pecan Day. The objective of the day is to celebrate the earthly wonders of this nut and to uplift the hardworking members of the industry who make the sustainable farming of pecans possible.

National Pecan Day timeline

1772
The First Plantation

Long Island farmers organize the first pecan plantation of pecan trees, propagating safe and easy ways of pecan plantation.

1775
George Washington’s Imprint

Founding Father George Washington plants a pecan tree in Mount Vernon, symbolizing the rapid popularity of pecans in America.

1943
Formalization

National Pecan Shellers Association is established to represent thousands of pecan farmers and shellers across the country

1996
Establishment of the Day

The National Pecan Shellers Association establishes National Pecan Day to honor the native nut of America.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Pecan Day

Local bakeries and restaurants can create special pecan-themed menus, offering discounts on pecan pies, tarts, or savory pecan-crusted dishes. Grocery stores can feature in-store tastings of different pecan varieties or host cooking demonstrations. Specialty food shops might offer gift baskets filled with pecan-based treats and ingredients. Highlight the versatility of pecans, from sweet desserts to savory main courses, to attract a wider customer base and encourage culinary exploration. Consider partnering with local pecan growers for fresh, seasonal offerings.

National Pecan Day FAQs

When is National Pecan Day?

In 2027, National Pecan Day is observed on Wednesday, April 14, marking another annual celebration of the versatile pecan. Get ready to enjoy its rich flavor and nutritional benefits.

How much of the world's pecans come from the U.S.?

Roughly three-quarters of the world’s pecans originate from the U.S., making it the largest producer globally. This substantial contribution underscores America’s rich agricultural heritage and expertise in pecan cultivation.

How popular are pecans in America?

Americans have a deep appreciation for pecans, which are widely consumed in various forms, including raw, roasted, and as a key ingredient in countless desserts and savory dishes. Their versatility contributes to their enduring popularity across the country.

What is the origin of National Pecan Day?

The National Pecan Shellers Association initiated National Pecan Day in 1966 to celebrate the pecan industry and its workers. It serves as an annual tribute to the American pecan and those who bring it to our tables.

National Pecan Day Activities

  1. Plan a pecan day

    Indulge in the versatile offering of this great American nut by planning your menu around it. Start the day with fluffy pecan pancakes, then have butter pecan chicken for lunch. For a midday snack, enjoy a couple of candied pecans, and end your day with pecan-crusted salmon and some hot pecan pie.

  2. Host a bake off

    From cookies to pies, pecans go well with any baking dish. So for National Pecan Day, host a bakeoff with your friends and family — featuring our beloved pecans.

  3. Plant a pecan tree in your backyard

    Pecans are non-fuss plants that don’t require a liver and a half to take sapling. Plant the seeds today, so you can reap the nuts tomorrow.

5 Important Facts About Pecans

  1. It’s a vitamin party

    Pecans are home to 19 different vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium.

  2. It’s more than a crunch

    Pecan oil, processed from pecans, is recommended for those with a risk of heart disease.

  3. A friend to the heart

    Pecans have the official certification of the American Heart Association for being a ‘Heart-Healthy Food.’

  4. A love for centuries

    A pecan tree grows to over 150 feet tall and lives for over 300 years.

  5. A dose of pecan for Apollo

    Astronauts carried pecans to the moon in their Apollo space mission twice.

Why We Love National Pecan Day

  1. Pecans are underrated

    The sweet and crunchy texture of a pecan elevates any dish it touches. Be it candies, cookies, bread, pie, salads, or ice cream. It’s time we honor the contribution of this humble nut in our kitchen and celebrate National Pecan Day with full excitement.

  2. Pecans are the O.G. American nut

    While cashew came to America from Brazil and the California almonds are actually a gift of Spain, pecan is the singular nut native to America. Pecans were widely consumed by native Americans before European colonization.

  3. Pecans contribute to the economy

    The American pecan industry is worth over $3.5 billion. Just 15 states of the U.S. produce more than 75% of pecan of the world. The pecan trees are responsible for the livelihoods of thousands of families and a flourishing U.S. economy.

National Pecan Day dates

Year Date Day
2027 April 14 Wednesday
2028 April 14 Friday
2029 April 14 Saturday
2030 April 14 Sunday
2031 April 14 Monday