National Coffee Day

National Coffee Day is a fragrant and energizing holiday celebrated on September 29. Coffee is one of the most popular and beloved drinks worldwide. In the United States and Canada, the holiday is observed at the end of September, while in other countries, the dates may vary.

History

National Coffee Day honors not only the drink itself but also the conservation and protection of coffee trees, which have become increasingly challenging to grow due to climate change. The International Coffee Organization supports farmers globally in growing coffee beans. The origins of the holiday are not clearly documented. Coffee first appeared in Yemen in the 15th century, and Europeans were introduced to it about a century later.

Interesting Facts

• For a deeper dive into the origins of coffee, check out the book The Monk of Mokha by Dave Eggers.
• When coffee was first introduced in Europe, some people called it the “bitter invention of Satan.”
• In early 17th-century Venice, clergy were so opposed to coffee that Pope Clement VIII got involved—he tasted it and declared it delicious.
• The first coffeehouse in Europe opened in Venice in the mid-17th century.

How to Take Part

Make a list of local coffee shops and visit as many as you can on September 29. Host a coffee party with friends and try making coffee cocktails. Take inspiration from the British “penny universities,” where people enjoyed coffee and stimulating conversations for a small fee. Try new brewing methods or treat yourself to a new mug for your favorite drink.

When is National Coffee Day in 2025?

National Coffee Day is observed on September 29 each year.

Observations