National Walnut Day (May 17)
National Walnut Day, celebrated each year on May 17th, isn’t just about snacking—it’s a celebration of history, health, and culinary creativity.
From ancient Persia to your local bakery, walnuts have played a vital role in traditions and diets around the world.
Whether you’re cracking one open for its nutrition or baking it into something sweet, this day invites you to honor one of nature’s most versatile foods. A great pick from the weird holidays in May.
When is the Holiday?
National Walnut Day is observed annually on May 17th in the United States.
Who Invented It?
While the exact origin remains unclear, the California Walnut Commission began promoting the day in the 1950s as part of a broader effort to spotlight walnuts’ nutritional value and culinary potential.
The day was federally recognized by a proclamation from President Eisenhower in 1958.
The History of the Holiday
Walnuts have been valued since 7000 B.C., with early cultivation traced back to Persia.
The Greeks dubbed them “karyon” (head) for their brain-like appearance. Romans expanded their use, not just in food but also for oil and medicine.
In the 20th century, California became a walnut-growing powerhouse, prompting the need for greater consumer awareness—which gave rise to the holiday.
Top 5 Facts About the Holiday
- Presidential Recognition – Eisenhower’s 1958 proclamation made the day official.
- California Grown – The state produces 99% of U.S. walnuts.
- Walnut Trees Live Long – Some trees can produce nuts for over 100 years.
- Symbol of Intelligence – Ancient civilizations believed walnuts enhanced brain power.
- Shell Power – Walnut shells are now used in eco-friendly cosmetics and abrasives.
**This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and a participant in other affiliate programs, I earn a commission on qualifying purchases.**
Activities to Celebrate
- Try a New Recipe: Bake walnut banana bread or toss candied walnuts into a salad.
- Host a Tasting Party: Sample different varieties—English, Black, and Red walnuts.
- Craft with Shells: Use shells for DIY ornaments or mini boats.
- Read and Learn: Share walnut-themed books with kids, such as All From a Walnut, and explore where they come from.
- Nutritious Snack Swap: Replace chips with roasted walnuts for the day.
Related Recipes for the Holiday
Celebrate the holiday by trying one (or several) of these standout recipes featuring this nutrient-packed nut:
- Maple Walnut Fudge – A creamy, microwave-friendly fudge that’s easy to make and rich with toasted walnut flavor.
- Kale Apple Salad with Walnuts – Crunchy apples and kale tossed with walnuts and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and healthy lunch.
- Chocolate Walnut Pie – A gooey, chocolate-filled pie with a layer of chopped walnuts for texture and a hint of salt.
- Pomegranate Chicken with Walnuts – A sweet-and-savory Middle Eastern dish with walnut-thickened sauce and tangy pomegranate notes.
- Vegan Walnut Pesto – A dairy-free version of the classic, using walnuts instead of pine nuts for a deeper flavor.
- Walnut Crusted Salmon – Baked salmon topped with a walnut-parmesan crust—flaky, nutty, and full of omega-3s.
- Walnut Oatmeal Energy Balls – A no-bake snack made with oats, dates, and crushed walnuts—perfect for lunchboxes or post-workout bites.
- Baklava with Honey Walnuts – Layers of flaky phyllo, chopped walnuts, and cinnamon, soaked in honey syrup for a traditional finish.
- Mushroom Walnut Stuffed Zucchini – A meatless main packed with umami from sautéed mushrooms and walnuts, topped with melted cheese.
- Apple Walnut Cinnamon Rolls – A twist on the classic cinnamon roll, adding apple chunks and chopped walnuts into the filling for extra texture and flavor.
Links to Resources
- The Tree Book for Kids and Their Grown-Ups – Learn how trees like the walnut grow, thrive, and support ecosystems. Great for science units or nature walks.
- California Walnut Commission – Offers facts, health research, recipes, and sustainability efforts tied to walnut farming.
- Walnut Nutrition Info Sheet (PDF) – A printable guide with walnut macros, omega-3 content, and serving tips—ideal for classroom or homeschool.
- How Walnuts Are Harvested (Video) – Kid-friendly look at walnut orchards and mechanical tree shakers—good for visual learners.
- Walnut Shell Craft Ideas – Use real shells to create boats, ornaments, or mini animals—engaging hands-on project.
- Walnut Coloring Pages – Fun for early learners: includes images of walnut trees, nuts in and out of shell, and squirrels.
- Walnut Taste Test Chart – Create a mini experiment by comparing raw, toasted, and candied walnuts—track taste, texture, and preference.
Related Holidays
- National Oatmeal Nut Waffle Day (March 11) – A perfect chance to top warm waffles with chopped walnuts and maple syrup for a cozy, nutty breakfast.
- National Peanut Butter Day (January 24) – While it celebrates a different nut, it’s a great excuse to compare flavors or try a peanut-walnut butter blend.
- National Peanut Brittle Day (January 26) – Swap peanuts for walnuts in your favorite brittle recipe for a new take on this classic treat.
- National Pie Day (January 23) – Whether it’s walnut pie, walnut-crusted chocolate tart, or pecan-walnut mashups, this day is made for baking with nuts.
Pin it!
Share this post about National Walnut Day on Pinterest!
