National Mushroom Hunting Day

National Mushroom Hunting Day is an American holiday dedicated to mushroom pickers. Mushroom foraging is an ancient practice that was once essential, as obtaining food was a primary task for early humans. Today, gathering mushrooms has become a popular hobby that allows people to collect mushrooms for free without purchasing them from stores. The holiday is celebrated annually on May 17.

History

The history of National Mushroom Hunting Day began in 2014 when it was established by D. Shoemaker-Galloway. A passionate mushroom enthusiast, he wanted to share his love for this fascinating representative of the natural world with others.

Many delicious and healthy mushrooms can be found in the woods, including porcini, chanterelles, morels, and others. However, before embarking on a mushroom hunt, it is essential to follow a few rules. The most important rule is to learn to distinguish between edible and poisonous mushrooms to avoid serious harm to your health. Additionally, mushrooms should only be collected in areas where it is permitted to do so; otherwise, there could be legal issues. Avoid picking mushrooms near highways or industrial areas, as mushrooms absorb toxins and harmful substances, making them unsafe for consumption.

Interesting facts

• Fungi form their own biological kingdom. Although they resemble plants, they cannot photosynthesize and lack chlorophyll. Instead, they feed on organic matter, which makes them more similar to animals.
• There are about 2 million species of fungi, but scientists have studied fewer than 100,000 species so far.
• Fungotherapy is the medical science of mushrooms, studying their medicinal properties and their use in treating diseases. This practice originated in ancient China.

How to celebrate

Learn more about edible mushroom varieties and the rules for foraging them. Celebrate by congratulating your fellow mushroom hunters on this holiday. Ask them about the most common mushrooms in your region.

Share the holiday on social media. Ask users if they prefer foraging for mushrooms or buying them in stores.

When is National Mushroom Hunting Day in 2025?

National Mushroom Hunting Day is observed on May 17 each year.

Observations