National Pawpaw Day

National Pawpaw Day is dedicated to the papaya. It is celebrated every third Thursday in September; in 2022, it falls on September 15th. This sweet fruit is very popular with people due to its creamy texture.

History

The history of National Pawpaw Day is buried in the centuries. It is known this fruit was highly valued by the natives of America. The Indians used it in their diet, consuming it fresh and dried. Papaya has a pronounced aroma, an unusual creamy texture, and a very sweet taste.

The penetration of this fruit into Europe is associated with the period of the great geographical discoveries. During the 1540 expedition led by Hernando de Soto, the Spaniards tasted papaya. Everyone was amazed by its sweetness and taste. Fresh fruits and seeds were sent to Europe to try to cultivate this tree. It is believed that papaya was George Washington’s favorite dessert.

Papaya is most popular in the southern regions of the United States, where it grows naturally. You can buy it in local markets, but it is difficult to find in large stores – it deteriorates very quickly.

Interesting facts

• The baked fruit acquires the characteristic aroma of breadcrumbs.
• Each fruit contains several hundred seeds.
• Only ripe papaya can be eaten – the juice of unripe fruits is poisonous.

How to take part

Take a trip with friends or family to Ohio, where a festival takes place on September 15th. There you can taste original papaya dishes and learn more about this fruit and visit its natural habitat.

Try fresh papaya or make interesting dishes with it yourself. Share information about this holiday on social networks, give some Interesting facts and express your own opinion about this tropical fruit.

When is National Pawpaw Day celebrated in 2023?

National Pawpaw Day is observed on the third Thursday of September each year.

Observations