National Pecan Day

National Pecan Day is an American holiday designed to introduce more people to this wonderful nut. Pecans are known for their unique flavor and aromatic properties, making them indispensable in cooking. They are also well-suited as a stand-alone snack due to their numerous health benefits. The holiday is observed annually on April 14.

History

There are two of the most popular nuts in the U.S.: peanuts and pecans! If you haven’t tried the latter, you should definitely correct that! The oldest written sources mentioning pecans date back to the 1700s. However, researchers agree that pecans existed much earlier as a wild plant that was either not used by humans or used very infrequently.

Pecans are harvested from trees that grow primarily in the American South. Cultivation began in 1772 on Long Island. The trees are well adapted to different conditions, making their cultivation relatively easy. Pecans are known for their soft shells, which are easy to crack and remove.

The pecan is considered a native American nut because it is not widespread in other parts of the world, although it is exported.

Interesting Facts

• In 1775, George Washington planted several pecan trees on his Mount Vernon estate.
• About 80% of all pecans found in stores around the world are grown in the United States.
• Pecans are rich in zinc, fatty acids, and fiber. Consuming these nuts can improve gastrointestinal function and lower cholesterol levels.

How to Celebrate

Learn more about the benefits of pecans today. Try them on their own or prepare a variety of dishes using them. Recipes are readily available online.

Share information about National Pecan Day on social media. Ask others if they have tried pecans. If so, what was their impression?

When is National Pecan Day in 2025?

National Pecan Day is observed on April 14 each year.

Observations