INTERNATIONAL DAY

International Carrot Day

On International Carrot Day, we stop rushing past the produce aisle and remember what carrot can actually do.

APR4

Sunday, April 4Every year on April 4

days to go

Roots: First celebrated in 2003
Vibe: Celebratory and nutritious
Also on Apr 4: Walk Around Things Day · World Corporate Health Day · International Pillow Fight Day
Hashtag: #InternationalCarrotDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate International Carrot Day.

Cook carrot simply — olive oil, salt, heat.
Learn one new preparation (roast, pickle, grate, purée).
Put it in a dish where you normally wouldn't.
Shop local produce this week and pick the ugliest good-looking one.
Teach a kid how to prep it with you.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Cook one vegetable-centered meal together, even if it's just a side.
Kids
Let them pick the seasoning. Ranch counts.
Couples
Visit a farmers market together and build dinner from whatever looked best.
Office
Upgrade the office snack tray with something in season.
School
Start a classroom garden project, even a small windowsill one.
Community
Volunteer with a garden, farm, or food recovery program.
Just me
Try one new preparation — roast, pickle, grill — and cook it for just you.

Fast facts

Carrots are 88% water

There are over 100 varieties of carrots

The story

Carrots have long been a staple in diets across the globe, but International Carrot Day brings a special focus to this vibrant vegetable. Celebrated annually on April 4th, this day encourages people to appreciate carrots in their various forms, raw, cooked, or juiced. The day was first recognized in 2003, and has since grown in popularity around the world, inspiring events and activities that promote healthy eating habits.

Read the full story

This crunchy vegetable is known for its bright orange hue, but carrots can also be found in shades of purple, yellow, and white. Rich in beta-carotene, carrots are celebrated for their numerous health benefits, including promoting good vision and supporting skin health. As plants that grow best in cooler weather, they can be harvested in both spring and fall, making them a favorite among gardeners and chefs alike.

In the United States, carrots are a beloved ingredient in many dishes, ranging from salads to soups. The popular carrot cake has also become a staple dessert, showcasing the vegetable's natural sweetness. As more people are becoming health-conscious, carrots are increasingly featured in recipes that highlight their nutritional value and versatility, appealing to both adults and children.

On International Carrot Day, communities engage in various activities, from cooking contests to farmer's markets showcasing fresh produce. Schools may organize educational events to teach children about the importance of vegetables in their diet. Ultimately, this day serves as a reminder to incorporate more vegetables into our meals, and to find joy in the simple pleasure of eating healthy.

Did you know?

Carrot Colors

While orange is the most common color, carrots also come in purple, red, white, and yellow.

Carrot Cultivation

Carrots are biennial plants, meaning they take two years to complete their life cycle.

World's Largest Carrot

The largest carrot ever recorded weighed 18.5 pounds and was grown in Alaska.

Health Benefits

Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A.

Carrot Varieties

There are over 100 varieties of carrots, including Nantes, Danvers, and Imperator.

Carrot Consumption

The average American eats about 10 pounds of carrots each year.

Carrot Myths

Some people believe that eating carrots can improve night vision, a myth rooted in WWII propaganda.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesIn the U.S., carrots are grown in every state, with California leading in production. They are a common ingredient in American cuisine.
NLNetherlandsThe Netherlands is known for its carrot cultivation and was where International Carrot Day was first celebrated.
AUAustraliaCarrots are a popular vegetable in Australia, often consumed raw in salads or as snacks.
GBUnited KingdomIn the UK, carrots are often featured in traditional dishes, including stews and roasts.
INIndiaIn India, carrots are used in a variety of dishes, including the popular sweet dessert known as gajar ka halwa.
FRFranceFrench cuisine showcases carrots in various forms, from soups to garnishes, highlighting their culinary versatility.