INTERNATIONAL DAY

International Tea Day (UN)

International Tea Day (UN) pulls up a stool and pours something good — the small comfort of a well-made drink and somebody to raise it with.

MAY21

Friday, May 21Every year on May 21

days to go

Roots: The UN established this observance in 2019; earlier tea observances began in 2005
Vibe: A day to appreciate tea's cultural connections and sustainability.
Also on May 21: American Red Cross Founder’s Day · Memo Day · Strawberries and Cream Day
Hashtag: #InternationalTeaDayUN

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate International Tea Day (UN).

Buy a bag of coffee or loose tea from a locally owned shop.
Make tea day (un) at home and actually slow down long enough to taste it.
Invite a friend over for a cup or a glass — no agenda.
Meet for a walk-and-coffee instead of a meeting.
Try a variation you've never had before.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Set up a tasting — juices for everybody, a fancy pitcher, nice glasses for the occasion.
Kids
Mocktails bar: sparkling water, juices, fruit, umbrellas. Let them name their creations.
Couples
Skip the noisy bar and make drinks at home. Better conversation, better seats.
Office
Bring in a quality beverage option for the afternoon — good coffee, good tea, good cold drinks.
School
For older students, talk about responsible celebration and the cultural history of the drink.
Community
Host a small meet-up at a locally owned cafe or bar — support one neighbor, meet a few more.
Just me
Make your drink the way you actually like it. Sit somewhere comfortable. Don't rush it.

Fast facts

Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world after water.

The story

International Tea Day is recognized on May 21 and serves as a platform to celebrate the rich traditions surrounding tea. Established by the United Nations in 2019, this day highlights the importance of tea for livelihoods and its role in sustainable agricultural practices. Across different cultures, tea is more than just a drink; it is a symbol of hospitality and community.

Read the full story

Tea has deep-rooted traditions in many countries, from the elaborate tea ceremonies in Japan to the casual afternoon tea in England. In the United States, tea is often associated with southern hospitality, where sweet tea is a staple. As tea continues to be a unifying force across cultures, International Tea Day offers an opportunity to recognize its significance in fostering connections and promoting well-being.

On this day, individuals and communities are encouraged to engage in discussions about sustainable tea practices. One important aspect of this conversation is the impact of climate change on tea production and the livelihoods of those who depend on it. By supporting fair trade and sustainable tea brands, we can help ensure a bright future for tea growing communities worldwide. Embracing sustainability in tea production can also lead to better quality and flavors in the teas we enjoy.

As you prepare to celebrate International Tea Day, consider exploring new tea varieties or hosting a tea-themed gathering with friends and family. Whether it’s a traditional chai from India or a floral blend from China, each cup tells a story. By participating in this global celebration, we honor the rich history of tea while advocating for sustainable practices that benefit everyone.

Did you know?

Tea's Ancient Roots

Tea has been consumed for thousands of years, with origins traced back to ancient China.

Health Benefits

Tea is known for its numerous health benefits, including antioxidants and potential heart health improvements.

Varieties of Tea

There are six main types of tea: white, green, oolong, black, dark, and herbal.

World's Largest Tea Producer

China is the largest producer of tea, followed by India and Kenya.

Specialty Teas

Certain teas, like Pu-erh and Darjeeling, are highly sought after and can be quite expensive.

Tea and Culture

Many cultures have rituals surrounding tea, reflecting their values and traditions.

The Tea Bag Invention

The tea bag was invented in the early 20th century and revolutionized tea consumption.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

INIndiaKnown for its rich tea culture, India produces a variety of teas, including Assam and Darjeeling.
CNChinaHome to a wide range of teas, China is famous for its green tea and traditional tea ceremonies.
GBUnited KingdomThe UK has a long-standing tradition of tea drinking, with afternoon tea being a beloved custom.
JPJapanJapan is renowned for its matcha and unique tea ceremonies that emphasize mindfulness.
THThailandThailand is famous for its herbal teas, often made from local ingredients like lemongrass.
USUnited StatesIn the U.S., iced tea is a popular beverage, especially in the southern regions, where sweet tea reigns supreme.