National Herb Day (1st Saturday in May)
National Herb Day is celebrated each year on the first Saturday in May.
It’s a perfect excuse to dig into the world of herbs—from growing your own to learning new recipes or exploring herbal remedies.
Whether you’re into cooking, gardening, or natural wellness, this day offers something green for everyone. It’s one of those weird holidays in May that deserves more love.
When is the Holiday?
National Herb Day falls on the first Saturday in May. Upcoming dates include:
- May 3, 2025
- May 2, 2026
- May 1, 2027
Who Invented It?
This holiday wasn’t created by one person. Instead, it grew from the efforts of herbalists, educators, and wellness communities.
Their shared goal? To promote the value of herbs in everyday life—from food to healing.
The History of the Holiday
It was established to raise awareness about the role herbs play in human culture.
Over the years, it has grown to include events, workshops, and educational efforts that celebrate both the practical and historical sides of herbs.
Interesting Facts about Herbs
- Basil is considered a symbol of love in Italy and a sacred plant in India.
- Mint has been used since ancient times to freshen breath and aid digestion.
- Cilantro and coriander come from the same plant: cilantro is the leaf, coriander the seed.
- Oregano was believed by the Greeks to bring joy and was often used in wedding wreaths.
- Rosemary improves memory, and ancient students in Greece would wear sprigs while studying.
Activities to Celebrate
- Plant a kitchen herb garden using mason jars or recycled containers—perfect for windowsills.
- Host an herb tasting party with infused oils, breads, and herb-flavored waters.
- Try your hand at homemade herbal remedies, like a lavender salve or calendula balm.
- Join a foraging walk in your local area and learn to identify edible herbs in the wild.
- Make a batch of fresh pesto with basil, garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan.
- Visit a local botanical garden or herb farm offering tours and demos.
Links to Resources
- How to Freeze Fresh Herbs – A simple guide to preserving herbs in ice cube trays with olive oil or water.
- Best Herbs for Homemade Tea – Learn about the top herbs for homegrown tea blends, including flavor profiles and health benefits.
- DIY Kitchen Herb Garden – Tips and ideas for starting a small herb garden indoors, perfect for windowsills.
- Growing a Herb Garden + Health Benefits – A full guide to planting, harvesting, and using herbs, plus insights into their nutritional benefits.
- How to Prune Basil for Larger Yields – A step-by-step tutorial on pruning basil to encourage bushy growth and high yield.
- How to Keep Cilantro Fresh – Tricks for storing cilantro to extend freshness, including water jar and paper towel methods.
- What Does Thyme Taste Like? – A breakdown of thyme’s flavor and how best to use it in various savory dishes.
Related Holidays
Herb lovers might also enjoy:
- National Lemon Juice Day (August 29): Perfect for pairing with freshly chopped herbs in vinaigrettes or herbal marinades.
- National Mint Julep Day (May 30): Celebrate with a refreshing drink that highlights the cooling flavor of fresh mint.
- National Iced Tea Day (June 10): Enhance your tea with mint, lemon balm, or lavender for a floral twist.
- National Onion Day (June 27): Many herbs pair beautifully with onions—think thyme, rosemary, or parsley in savory dishes.
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