Apple Gifting Day (January 1)
Apple Gifting Day on January 1 is a simple but thoughtful way to start the new year by sharing kindness with others.
Whether you’re giving a fresh apple, baking something homemade, or creating an apple-themed gift, the focus is on small gestures that feel personal and meaningful.
Apples are often linked with health and learning, which makes them a nice symbol to start the year on a positive note.
When is it?
This unique holiday is observed annually on January 1st. While it may not be widely recognized, it’s a great way to start the year with a thoughtful gesture that promotes kindness and sharing.
Who Started the Tradition?
The exact origins of Apple Gifting Day remain unknown, but apples have been exchanged as gifts for centuries.
Their significance varies across cultures, often symbolizing good fortune, wisdom, and health.
A Brief History of Apple Gifting
Gifting apples has been a common practice for thousands of years. Ancient Greeks and Romans exchanged fruit as a symbol of prosperity during New Year’s celebrations.
In medieval Europe, apples were considered luxurious, making them a treasured present. The phrase “apple of one’s eye” reflects the value placed on this fruit throughout history.
By the 19th century, apples became associated with education and teachers, strengthening the tradition of giving apples as gifts.
Interesting Facts About the Holiday
- Apples were once used as a form of currency in bartering systems.
- In the 18th century, apples were gifted as a token of peace and friendship.
- Apples are linked to health and longevity, inspiring the famous saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.”
- Some cultures consider apples a symbol of wisdom, offering them to scholars and educators.
- The heaviest apple ever recorded weighed over four pounds!
Coloring Page
This simple black and white coloring page is a fun way for kids to join in with the quirky January holiday. It works well for quiet time, early finishers, or as a quick activity to go with your lessons or celebrations.
Fun Ways to Celebrate Apple Gifting Day
Here are a few simple ways to celebrate:
- Host an Apple-Themed Gathering – Serve apple-based treats, play apple games, and decorate with apple-themed items.
- Create Personalized Apple Gift Baskets – Fill a basket with different apple varieties, along with jams, pies, and other apple-based goodies.
- Try an Apple Tasting Challenge – Compare different types of apples and vote for the best one.
- Make DIY Apple Crafts – Create apple-shaped ornaments, stamps, or scented candles.
- Donate Apples to a Local Food Bank – Spread the kindness by gifting apples to those in need.
- Start an Apple Tree Planting Tradition – A great way to encourage sustainability while celebrating the day.
- Make Homemade Apple Cider – Warm up with a delicious, spiced apple drink to share with loved ones.
Must-Try Apple Recipes for Gifting
Take your apple gifting to the next level with these delicious recipes:
- Grandma’s Canned Apple Pie Filling – This homemade recipe makes for a wonderful gift, perfect for baking a quick pie or topping ice cream.
- Caramel Apple in a Jar – A fun twist on a classic caramel apple! Layer apple slices with caramel sauce and toppings in a mason jar for a portable treat.
- Apple Sandwiches – Slice apples and layer them with peanut butter, granola, or chocolate chips for a healthy and tasty snack.
Helpful Resources
Sew an Apple Craft. This fun sewing project is perfect for beginners and can be turned into a cute apple-themed gift. Use felt or fabric to create soft apple decorations that make great keychains or ornaments.
DIY Flower Pot Apple. Transform a simple flower pot into an apple-shaped decoration, perfect for gifting to teachers or gardening enthusiasts. A little paint and creativity can turn an ordinary pot into a delightful apple gift.
Origami Apple Tutorial. Learn how to fold an origami apple using simple techniques. This paper craft is great for kids and makes an adorable handmade gift.
Painted Rock Apple Craft. Take a smooth rock and paint it to resemble an apple! This is a fun and easy craft for kids and adults, and these decorative apple rocks can be used as paperweights or garden decorations.
How to Make an Apple Tote Bag. Sew your own reusable tote bag with an apple print or shape. This stylish and practical craft is great for carrying groceries, books, or even a bunch of apples to gift.
Apple & Fruit-Themed Holidays
If you enjoy celebrating with apples, you might also like:
- National Apple Strudel Day (June 17) – Celebrates the classic apple-filled pastry.
- National Apricot Day (January 9) – Another fruit-focused day for fresh and baked treats.
- National Pie Day (January 23) – Perfect for apple pie lovers.
Pin It!
Share these ideas on Pinterest on how you can celebrate the day when you give apples to someone else to show you care!
