National Almond Day (February 16)

ByClare Brown Updated on
Bowl of almond milk surrounded by whole almonds and palm leaves on a dark background

National Almond Day on February 16 celebrates one of the most versatile and nutritious snacks around.

Whether you love them roasted, blended into almond milk, or baked into desserts, almonds show up in more recipes than you might realize.

This quirky February holiday is a great excuse to learn a few fun facts, try new almond-based recipes, and enjoy this powerhouse seed in creative ways.

When is the Holiday?

It’s observed every year on February 16th. Mark it on your calendar if you’re looking for a tasty excuse to snack smarter or experiment with new almond recipes.

Who Invented It?

The origins of the holiday remain a mystery. However, it’s likely that almond enthusiasts created this holiday to spotlight the health benefits and versatility of almonds.

bowl of almonds

The History of the Holiday

Almonds have been cultivated for thousands of years, with evidence dating back to 4,000 BC in the Mediterranean.

They were commonly carried along the Silk Road as a convenient travel food because they store well and provide lasting energy.

Almonds arrived in the United States in the 1700s, but large-scale farming took off in California during the 1850s. Today, California produces around 80% of the world’s almonds.

Across cultures, almonds have long symbolized good luck, fertility, and prosperity, making them a meaningful food in weddings and celebrations.

Top 5 Fun Almond Facts

  1. Almonds are technically seeds, not true nuts.
  2. Ancient Egyptians placed almonds in King Tut’s tomb for the afterlife.
  3. They’re packed with vitamin E, fiber, and healthy fats.
  4. Romans tossed almonds at newlyweds for good fortune.
  5. Almond milk is now one of the most popular dairy-free alternatives worldwide.

Coloring Page

Enjoy this almond-themed coloring page as a fun, screen-free way to celebrate National Almond Day with kids or during a relaxing break.

National Almond Day Coloring Page
Almond Coloring Page

Activities to Celebrate

  • Host an almond tasting with raw, roasted, flavored, and chocolate-covered varieties.
  • Make homemade almond butter with fun mix-ins like honey or cinnamon.
  • Use almond shells for simple crafts or sensory bins for kids.
  • Bake almond-based treats like cookies or gluten-free cakes.
  • Create a family trivia game using almond history and fun facts.
almonds in a bowl and on a spoon on a black background

Related Recipes for the Holiday

  • Homemade Almond Butter – A simple, creamy spread made with just almonds and a touch of salt. Perfect for toast, smoothies, or baking.
  • Almond Milk Ice Cream – A dairy-free, four-ingredient dessert that’s creamy and refreshing, ideal for those seeking a plant-based treat.
  • Spiced Roasted Almonds – A quick and healthy almond snack flavored with chili, cayenne, and a hint of sweetness for a satisfying crunch.
  • Tarta de Santiago (Spanish Almond Cake) – A naturally gluten-free almond cake with a soft, moist texture and a hint of lemon.
  • Almond Joy Cookies – Inspired by the classic candy bar, these cookies combine coconut, chocolate, and almonds for a delicious treat.
  • Almond Flour Brownies – Rich, fudgy brownies made with almond flour, perfect for a gluten-free indulgence.
  • Almond Crusted Chicken – A crispy, flavorful alternative to traditional breaded chicken, adding a delicious nutty texture.
  • Almond Pesto – A twist on the classic pesto using almonds instead of pine nuts, offering a rich, creamy texture.

Links to Resources

  • The FDA notes that eating 1.5 ounces of nuts like almonds daily may help reduce heart disease risk when part of a balanced diet.

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National Almond Day February 16