National Smoothie Day

October is recognized as World Smoothie Month, but the United States also celebrates National Smoothie Day on June 21. A delicious, healthier-style drink gets recognition twice a year.

History of National Smoothie Day

National Smoothie Day reflects the evolution of smoothies, which became possible with the rise of home blenders. The first electric blender was invented in 1922, and by 1926, Orange Julius had opened, serving fruit-based drinks that are often seen as early smoothie-style beverages. In the 1930s, smoothie-style drinks began appearing in health food stores across California, Oregon, and Washington.

In 1964, an Orange Julius drink was named an official drink of the New York World’s Fair. In 1973, Steven and Cindy Kuhnau opened a smoothie bar in Kenner, Louisiana, which later became Smoothie King. In 1990, Kirk Perron launched Jamba Juice in San Luis Obispo, California, and Tropical Smoothie Cafe followed in 1997 in Destin, Florida. By the 2000s, smoothies expanded beyond fruit blends, and green smoothies became a popular trend. Because smoothies are especially refreshing in warm weather, June 21 is often associated with the start of summer in the United States.

Interesting Facts About National Smoothie Day

• The origin of the term “smoothie” is unclear. Steven Kuhnau has suggested that hippies popularized the word in the late 1960s.
• Jamba Juice began as a student project led by Kirk Perron at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly).

How to Take Part in National Smoothie Day

1. Host a smoothie get-together and share favorite recipes with friends.
2. Create a new smoothie using an unexpected ingredient, such as fresh herbs, spices, or a vegetable you do not usually blend.
3. Try a blind-taste challenge: one person makes a smoothie while another stays out of the room, then the taster guesses the ingredients.

When is National Smoothie Day in 2026?

National Smoothie Day is observed annually on June 21.

Observations