National Gourmet Coffee Day

National Gourmet Coffee Day is an annual American holiday that brings together coffee enthusiasts to celebrate their love for exceptional brews. Observed each year on January 18, it’s the perfect excuse to start your morning with a cup of aromatic coffee while enjoying the sunrise.

History

The discovery of coffee is surrounded by legends, but most researchers agree that the ancient inhabitants of the Jimma region in Ethiopia were among the first to use coffee. They roasted ripe beans over a fire and brewed a rich, energizing drink.

While there are differing accounts, the early 16th century is widely considered the beginning of coffee as a beverage, particularly in Yemeni monasteries. Coffee quickly spread throughout the Middle East, Asia, and beyond. People valued its energizing effects, bold aroma, and deep flavor.

Over time, new varieties and coffee-based drinks emerged. Gourmet coffee, made exclusively from high-quality Arabica beans, became especially prized. These beans are grown in subtropical climates at higher elevations, where cool, stable weather produces the best flavor and aroma.

Interesting Facts

• To consume a lethal dose of caffeine, a person would need to drink about 100 cups of coffee in one day.
• Latte is the most popular coffee drink in the United States and many other countries.
• Brazil is the world’s largest producer of coffee beans.

How to Take Part

Enjoy a cup of Arabica coffee on National Gourmet Coffee Day. Visit your local coffee shops to try specialty drinks made by skilled baristas. Explore more about coffee online—learn about its varieties, history, and interesting trivia.

Share the holiday on social media. Join the conversation about your favorite types of coffee and coffee-based drinks.

When is National Gourmet Coffee Day in 2026?

National Gourmet Coffee Day is observed on January 18 each year.

Observations