NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

Mead Day

Mead Day is a time to celebrate the ancient craft of mead-making and its cultural significance.

AUG1

Saturday, August 1First Saturday in August

Roots: Dates back to 7000 BC in China
Vibe: Community-oriented and celebratory
Also on Aug 1: Congressional Startup Day · Jamaican Patty Day · Mustard Day
Hashtag: #MeadDay

Add to my calendar Send a card Email a friend

Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Taste mead

Pour a glass of honey wine and savor its sweet, ancient flavors.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a mead tasting

Sample different meads with friends and pick your favorite.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Visit a meadery

Tour a local meadery with coworkers and learn how it is made.

Plan ahead

Mead Day is observed on the first Saturday in August. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sat, Aug 1this year

2027Sat, Aug 7

2028Sat, Aug 5

2029Sat, Aug 4

2030Sat, Aug 3

2031Sat, Aug 2

2032Sat, Aug 7

2033Sat, Aug 6

2034Sat, Aug 5

2035Sat, Aug 4

2036Sat, Aug 2

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

Mead is made across the U.S. and around the world

Mead is experiencing a revival with over 500 U.S. meaderies

The story

Mead Day is observed on the first Saturday in August, serving as a celebration of this ancient beverage. Originating thousands of years ago, mead has been enjoyed in various cultures, from the Vikings of Scandinavia to the ancient Greeks. Mead is made by fermenting honey with water, and it may also include fruits, spices, or grains, creating a diverse range of flavors and styles. This day encourages enthusiasts to explore the rich history and craft of mead-making.

Read the full story

In the United States, mead has seen a resurgence in popularity, with over 500 meaderies operating nationwide as of 2023. This revival has been fueled by the craft beverage movement, which has also embraced the fermentation of honey. Mead Day not only celebrates the drink itself but also the community of makers and drinkers who share a passion for this unique beverage. Many meaderies host events and tastings, allowing attendees to discover the nuances of different mead varieties.

On Mead Day, enthusiasts are encouraged to engage in various activities that celebrate the drink. Participating in mead tastings or learning to brew at home are popular choices. Additionally, pairing mead with foods can elevate the tasting experience, try spicy barbecue or sweet desserts to see how mead complements different flavors. Whether you’re new to mead or a seasoned aficionado, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

As you celebrate Mead Day, consider sharing your experiences on social media. Use the hashtag #MeadDay to connect with fellow enthusiasts and discover new recipes, pairings, and meaderies. The day is not just about drinking mead but also about fostering community and sharing knowledge about this ancient craft. Whether you’re attending a local event or enjoying a bottle at home, Mead Day invites everyone to partake in this rich tradition.

Did you know?

Honey's Role

Honey is the primary ingredient in mead, contributing not only sweetness but also complex flavors depending on its floral source.

Oldest Fermented Drink

Mead is considered one of the oldest fermented drinks known to humanity, predating both beer and wine.

Viking Connection

Mead was especially popular among Vikings, who believed it was a gift from the gods and consumed it during feasts.

Health Benefits

Historically, mead was thought to have health benefits, and it was often used in medicine.

International Variations

Many cultures have their own variations of mead, such as Ethiopian Tej, which is traditionally made with honey and gesho leaves.

Mead Festivals

Numerous mead festivals take place around the world, celebrating the craft and creativity of mead makers.

Craft Movement

The craft beverage movement has fueled a resurgence in mead production, introducing it to a new generation of drinkers.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesThe U.S. has embraced mead-making, with meaderies popping up across the country, especially in states like California and Michigan.
GBUnited KingdomMead has a long history in the UK, often associated with medieval times and festivals celebrating its rich heritage.
DEGermanyIn Germany, mead is known as 'Met' and has been enjoyed for centuries, often flavored with spices and fruits.
BRBrazilBrazil is witnessing a growing interest in mead, with local producers crafting unique variations that highlight regional ingredients.
FRFranceFrench meaderies are known for their artisanal approaches, often incorporating local honey and traditional brewing techniques.
ESSpainSpain's mead scene is evolving, with many new producers experimenting with flavors that reflect the country's diverse culinary heritage.