National Almond Day (February 16)

ByClare Brown Posted on Updated on

National Almond Day is celebrated on February 16, a day dedicated to the versatile almond.

Whether you enjoy them roasted, blended into almond milk, or as a sweet treat, almonds offer countless ways to indulge.

Let’s explore the intriguing history, fun facts, and creative ways to celebrate this delicious weird day in February!

When is the Holiday?

It is observed annually on February 16th. Mark your calendar to celebrate all things almond!

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 since 4,000 BC in the Mediterranean region.

Along the Silk Road, travelers carried almonds as a convenient snack.

By the 1700s, almonds arrived in the United States, but it wasn’t until the 1850s that they thrived in California’s climate, now producing 80% of the world’s almonds.

Historically, almonds symbolized fertility, happiness, and wealth in many cultures.

Top 5 Fun Almond Facts

  1. Almonds are technically seeds, not nuts.
  2. Ancient Egyptians placed almonds in King Tut’s tomb for the afterlife.
  3. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber.
  4. The Romans gave almonds as wedding gifts for good luck.
  5. Almond milk is a popular dairy-free alternative worldwide.

Activities to Celebrate

  • Almond Tasting Party – Sample different types of almonds, such as roasted, raw, flavored, and chocolate-covered, and compare flavors and textures.
  • DIY Almond Butter Making – Create your own almond butter with fun add-ins like honey, cinnamon, or cocoa for a delicious homemade spread.
  • Almond-Inspired Crafts – Use almond shells to create fun DIY projects like ornaments, jewelry, or decorative art.
  • Bake Almond Treats – Try baking almond-based goodies such as almond cookies, cakes, or gluten-free brownies to enjoy and share.
  • Host an Almond Trivia Game – Gather friends and family for a fun quiz featuring interesting facts about almonds and their history.
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 US FDA says, “Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.”

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