NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Pick Strawberries Day

On National Pick Strawberries Day, we make a little room on the calendar for the thing that makes us who we are.

MAY20

Thursday, May 20Every year on May 20

days to go

Roots: The founder and origin of this observance are unknown.
Vibe: Joyful, family-friendly, and delicious
Also on May 20: World Metrology Day · World Bee Day · International Red Sneakers Day
Hashtag: #NationalPickStrawberriesDay

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate National Pick Strawberries Day.

Do one small thing that makes the day feel marked.
Tell someone what you're celebrating and why.
Share a post, a photo, or a memory connected to it.
Make a tiny tradition — something you could do again next year.
Let it be simple. Not every celebration has to be a production.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Do one small thing together that everyone will remember.
Kids
Turn it into a craft, a story, or a snack — meet them where they are.
Couples
Use the day as an excuse for a little intentional time together.
Office
Acknowledge the day in the team chat or at a stand-up. Small, sincere, fast.
School
Anchor a short lesson or activity around the day.
Community
Share, volunteer, or donate to make the day mean something locally.
Just me
Celebrate quietly and completely. One person can still mark a day.

Plan ahead

National Pick Strawberries Day is observed on May 20 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Wed, May 20this year

2027Thu, May 20

2028Sat, May 20

2029Sun, May 20

2030Mon, May 20

2031Tue, May 20

2032Thu, May 20

2033Fri, May 20

2034Sat, May 20

2035Sun, May 20

2036Tue, May 20

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Fast facts

California produces 90% of U.S. strawberries.

The story

National Pick Strawberries Day falls on May 20, a date that heralds the arrival of fresh strawberries in many regions across the United States. As the weather warms and the days grow longer, strawberry farms open their fields to visitors eager to partake in this delightful seasonal activity. Families and friends gather to pick their own strawberries, creating cherished memories in the process. It’s a day that celebrates not just the fruit itself but the joy of being outdoors and enjoying the company of loved ones.

Read the full story

Strawberries hold a special place in American culture, often associated with summer picnics, desserts, and festive occasions. The sweet, juicy fruit has been cultivated in the U.S. since the colonial period, and today, California is the leading producer, accounting for approximately 90% of the nation’s strawberry harvest. The peak season for picking typically runs from late April through June, making National Pick Strawberries Day a perfect time to enjoy the bounty of this beloved berry.

In addition to picking strawberries, this day encourages individuals and families to explore various culinary delights made from strawberries. From strawberry shortcakes to smoothies, the versatility of this fruit offers endless possibilities in the kitchen. Many farms also host events, including strawberry festivals, where visitors can indulge in local delicacies, crafts, and activities that celebrate the strawberry harvest. These community gatherings foster a sense of belonging and appreciation for local agriculture.

As you prepare to celebrate National Pick Strawberries Day, consider the sustainability aspect of strawberry farming. Many local farms practice environmentally friendly methods, promoting biodiversity and soil health. By choosing to pick your own strawberries, you support these practices and connect with the source of your food. Whether you're picking strawberries for a family dessert or simply enjoying the experience, this day is a reminder of the simple pleasures of life and the importance of community.