- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- FoodHealthy Food
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every April 30
- Holiday emoji:
- 🍇
National Raisin Day celebrates the humble dried grape every April 30. Whether you love them in oatmeal cookies or as a stand-alone snack, these sweet treats have a rich history. Try baking with them, adding them to your breakfast, or simply enjoying a handful straight from the box.
Want to sponsor National Raisin Day? Learn how
National Raisin Day timeline
Raisins are produced by the Ancient Egyptians.
Spanish missionaries bring grapes to the United States, setting up vineyards.
When it is discovered that producing raisins will make higher profits, the raisin industry is born.
The popularity of trail mix skyrockets with the addition of chocolate-covered raisins.
National Raisin Day FAQs
When is National Raisin Day?
In 2027, National Raisin Day will be observed on Friday, April 30. This end-of-week timing makes it an ideal day to unwind with raisin-infused treats or experiment with new recipes.
What are the health benefits of raisins?
As a natural source of energy, raisins offer a quick and healthy snack option. For 2027, health trends emphasize whole, unprocessed foods, and raisins fit perfectly into this focus, contributing to heart health and providing a natural sweetness without added sugars.
How popular are raisins in the U.S.?
The U.S. is one of the largest consumers of raisins globally, driven by their versatility and perceived health benefits. For 2027, market data suggests a steady demand for dried fruits, with raisins holding a significant share due to their widespread use in both home cooking and commercial food products.
What's the difference between raisins, sultanas, and currants?
These terms distinguish dried grape types by their origin and characteristics. For 2027, consumers are increasingly seeking specific dried fruit profiles; raisins are generally plump and sweet, sultanas are golden and slightly softer, and currants offer a more intense, tangy flavor in a petite size, each suitable for different culinary applications.
National Raisin Day Activities
Eat sweets for every meal
For breakfast, why not some cinnamon rolls topped with raisins? For lunch, make a nice Waldorf salad and swap out those grapes for a few of the sun-dried variety. Finally, why not top dinner off with a little bit of bread pudding?
Make your own
All you need are some grapes from the local grocer and sunny, dry weather. First, get red or green grapes and remove the large stems from the fruit. Next, place the grapes on a rack and leave them out in the sun for a few days. Finally, place the shriveled grapes in an airtight container and you have a namesake snack!
Watch "Meet the Raisins" (1998)
The half-hour special got a Primetime Emmy Award nod for Outstanding Animated Program. Afterward, why not make it a full on Rais-a-Thon following it up with the sequel — "Raisins: Sold Out!" Don’t forget the Raisinets!
Why We Love National Raisin Day
Nature's jellybeans?
Perhaps. Raisins can be up to 72% sugar by weight, making them a sweet and satisfying snack. But unlike jellybeans, raisins are have some nutritional value. They boast cancer-fighting antioxidants, provide an excellent source of fiber, and contain no cholesterol.
Raisins complete things
Raisins and oatmeal cookies are one of the culinary world’s great pairings, but it's just one of many. The most obvious? Cereal, of course — as long as it's not too sweetened already. Some other fan favorites: rugelach, cinnamon raisin bread, rum raisin ice cream and trail mix.
Welcome to Selma
Over half of the world’s raisins come from California. Although Napa is known worldwide for its wine-producing grapes, the Golden State’s raisin capital is actually the city of Selma— just southeast of Fresno. This area produces over 350,000 tons of raisins annually.
