National Watermelon Day (August 3)

One weird holiday on August 3 is National Watermelon Day. Check out the other weird July holidays!

Ah, watermelon – that quintessential slice of summer! Each year on August 3rd, National Watermelon Day gives us a fresh reason to celebrate this delicious, hydrating fruit. With its sweet, refreshing juice and vibrant color, watermelon isn’t just a favorite picnic basket filler – it’s a staple at barbecues, pool parties, and sunny beach days across the globe.

This article will dive into the fascinating history of watermelon, explore its various delectable varieties, and discuss the health benefits it offers. Plus, we’ll provide tips on how you can grow your own and fun ways to mark National Watermelon Day.

When is National Watermelon Day?

National Watermelon Day takes place each year on August 3rd.

Who Invented National Watermelon Day?

The specific origin or inventor of National Watermelon Day is not clearly documented. Like many food-related commemorative days, it is likely that National Watermelon Day was established by marketing groups or agricultural organizations aiming to promote watermelon consumption during the peak of its season. These special days often emerge as part of promotional efforts to highlight the benefits and enjoyment of specific products, and they gain popularity through social media and various marketing campaigns. National Watermelon Day fits into this pattern as a way to celebrate and encourage the consumption of watermelons during the hot summer months when they are most refreshing and abundant.

The History of Watermelon

The story of watermelon begins in the heart of Africa. This juicy fruit is native to the Kalahari Desert of Africa, and evidence of its cultivation dates back over 5,000 years ago, found in hieroglyphics on the walls of Ancient Egyptian tombs. These early watermelons were often placed in the burial tombs of kings to nourish them in the afterlife. From Africa, watermelons spread to other parts of the world via merchant ships and explorers.

The watermelon arrived in China by the 10th century and soon became a major crop. Today, China is the world’s largest watermelon producer. By the 13th century, watermelon had made its way through the Mediterranean and into Europe, and it was introduced to the New World by European colonists and African slaves in the 16th and 17th centuries. In America, the fruit quickly became popular among Native American tribes and European settlers alike, primarily for its ability to thrive in warm climates and its vital source of hydration.

Varieties of Watermelon

There are over 1,200 varieties of watermelon ranging in size, shape, and color. In general, however, the watermelon plants look alike. Here are a few notable ones.

Seedless Watermelons: Despite the name, seedless watermelons do have some soft, undeveloped seeds. These watermelons are hybrids created by breeding two different types of watermelons.
Picnic Watermelons: These are the classic, large watermelons that weigh between 15 and 45 pounds. They have a bright red, sweet flesh and are perfect for sharing at gatherings.
Icebox Watermelons: Smaller than picnic watermelons, these varieties weigh between 5 and 15 pounds and are ideal for small families or refrigerators, hence the name “icebox.”
Yellow and Orange Watermelons: These varieties have yellow or orange flesh instead of the traditional red. They are generally sweeter than the red varieties and offer a different taste experience.

How to Grow Your Own Watermelon

Growing watermelon can be immensely rewarding. You can get a more detailed article on how to grow your own watermelon, but here’s a good starting place:

Choose the Right Variety: Pick a variety that suits your climate and space. For smaller gardens, consider an icebox variety.
Planting: Sow seeds directly into the ground in a sunny, well-drained spot. Watermelon plants love heat and should be planted after the threat of frost has passed.
Care: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Use mulch to help retain moisture and keep weeds at bay.
Harvesting: Watermelon is ready to harvest when the underside turns yellow and the fruit sounds hollow when tapped.

Health Benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon isn’t just tasty—it’s also packed with nutrition. Here are some of the health benefits:

Hydration: Watermelon is 92% water, making it excellent for hydration.
Nutrients: It is rich in vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium and magnesium. It also contains antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to heart health and cancer prevention.
Low-Calorie: Watermelon is a low-calorie fruit, making it a healthy choice for an everyday snack.

Fun Ideas for Celebrating National Watermelon Day

Celebrating National Watermelon Day can be as delightful and refreshing as the fruit itself. Here are ten fun ideas to make the most of this juicy holiday:

Watermelon Carving Contest: Gather friends and family for a watermelon carving contest. Participants can carve watermelon into sculptures or baskets. Award prizes for the most creative, funniest, or best-executed designs.
Watermelon Eating Contest: Host a watermelon eating contest to see who can eat a slice of watermelon the fastest without using their hands. It’s a sticky but fun activity that’s perfect for outdoor gatherings.
Watermelon-Themed Party: Throw a watermelon-themed party complete with decorations, games, and food all inspired by watermelons. Think pink and green tablecloths, plates, and balloons.
Watermelon Recipe Swap: Organize a recipe swap where each guest brings a dish made from watermelon. Dishes can range from salads and salsas to desserts and drinks. This is a great way to discover new favorite recipes. Scroll to the bottom for watermelon recipes.
DIY Watermelon Drinks: Set up a DIY drink station where guests can make their own watermelon drinks. Offer cut-up watermelon, other fruits, herbs, ice, and a variety of liquids like soda, tonic water, and alcohol for those who indulge.
Watermelon Seed Spitting Contest: See who can spit watermelon seeds the farthest. This old-fashioned fun can be a highlight of your National Watermelon Day celebration.
Watermelon Art: Invite children and adults to paint or draw watermelon-inspired art. Provide all the necessary art supplies and let everyone’s creativity flow with watermelon as the muse.
Visit a Local Farm: If possible, organize a visit to a local farm that grows watermelons. Many farms offer tours and this could be a great educational experience for children and adults alike.
Watermelon Relay Race: Create a relay race where participants must carry a watermelon. They can balance it on their heads, hug it while running, or even push it with their feet. Make sure the race is on soft grass to avoid injuries!
Educational Activities About Watermelons: Educate children about the benefits and fun facts of watermelons. Create a small trivia game or a storytelling session that includes interesting facts about the history and biology of watermelons.

These activities not only make National Watermelon Day celebrations more fun but also help create lasting memories with loved ones. Whether you’re enjoying the fruit in a dish, drink, or just by itself, it’s a perfect way to beat the heat and enjoy the summer.

National Watermelon Day is the perfect opportunity to delve into the delights of this amazing fruit. Whether you’re enjoying a classic slice on a hot day, experimenting with recipes, or growing your own, watermelon is a guaranteed way to add a splash of joy and sweetness to your summer. So grab a watermelon, carve it, eat it, drink it, and most importantly, enjoy it with friends and family under the summer sky.