National Strawberry Month
On National Strawberry Month, the farmstand wins. Eat it out of hand, put it in a pie, share a bowl with a neighbor.
Why it matters
WELCOME TO STRAWBERRY MONTH
April is here, and with it comes the joy of strawberries.
THE STORY
Strawberries have a rich history in the United States, with the first recorded cultivation occurring in North America in the 1600s. These berries quickly became popular due to their sweet flavor and vibrant color. The California Strawberry Commission officially declared April as National Strawberry Month in 1983, aiming to celebrate the delicious fruit and promote its consumption. Strawberries are not only a delightful treat but also a healthy option, packed with vitamins and antioxidants that benefit overall health.
Throughout the month of April, strawberry farms across the country open their fields to the public, inviting families to pick their own fruit. This tradition is not only a fun outdoor activity but also a way to appreciate the hard work that goes into growing strawberries. Many farms also host festivals featuring strawberry-themed activities, live music, and of course, plenty of fresh strawberries to enjoy. It’s a time when communities come together to celebrate the bounty of local farms.
Strawberries are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various forms—from fresh to frozen, in desserts, salads, and even savory dishes. Popular recipes during National Strawberry Month include strawberry shortcake, smoothies, and salads that highlight the fruit’s natural sweetness. Many people also enjoy making homemade strawberry jams and preserves to savor the taste of spring throughout the year. The recipe possibilities are endless, making this month a culinary delight for strawberry enthusiasts.
As we celebrate National Strawberry Month, it’s essential to recognize the impact of strawberry farming on local economies. In California alone, strawberry farming is a multi-billion dollar industry, employing thousands of workers and supporting local communities. The appreciation for strawberries goes beyond taste; it embodies the spirit of spring and the importance of supporting local agriculture. So whether you’re picking berries, enjoying a strawberry dessert, or learning about their health benefits, take a moment this April to relish the joy that strawberries bring.
WORTH KNOWING
Strawberry Varieties
Explore the different types of strawberries, like June-bearing and everbearing.
Strawberry Festivals
Attend local strawberry festivals for fun activities and fresh treats.
Strawberry Recipes
Find unique recipes that feature strawberries in creative ways.
Health Benefits
Learn about the numerous health benefits of strawberries.
AROUND THE WORLD
DID YOU KNOW?!
A Berry by Any Other Name
Strawberries are not actually berries; they are classified as ‘aggregate fruits.’
The Strawberry Shortcake
Strawberry shortcake is a classic American dessert, especially popular in spring.
World Record
The largest strawberry ever grown weighed 250 grams (about 8.8 ounces).
Strawberry Colors
Strawberries are not just red; they can also be yellow and white.
First Fruit
Strawberries were the first fruit to be cultivated in America.
Symbol of Love
In ancient Rome, strawberries were considered a symbol of Venus, the goddess of love.
Nutritional Powerhouse
One cup of strawberries has only about 50 calories and is rich in vitamin C.
READ MORE
Strawberry Delight
By Sarah Baker
A collection of delectable recipes featuring strawberries in every dish.
The Little Strawberry
By Jane Field
A charming story about a strawberry’s adventures in the garden.
Fruits for Health
By Dr. Emily Green
Explores the health benefits of various fruits, including strawberries.
Growing Strawberries
By Tom Farmer
A guide to cultivating strawberries in your own backyard.
PAIR IT WITH
A classic dessert that highlights the flavor of fresh strawberries.
A refreshing drink perfect for warm spring days.
A beloved treat that captures the essence of summer.
Pair strawberries with sparkling wine for a delightful experience.
Celebrate Strawberry Month
Join in the festivities of National Strawberry Month by sharing your favorite strawberry recipes and experiences with friends.
How to celebrate
Small, doable ways to celebrate National Strawberry Month.
- Pick up strawberry at a farmers market this week.
- Make one simple thing with it — a galette, a smoothie, a salad.
- Send a kid home with a bag of it, fruit-bowl style.
- Try a new variety you've never bought before.
- Share whatever you can't eat before it goes.
Celebration ideas by audience
For families
Do a tasting with three varieties and pick a family favorite.
For kids
Let them help choose at the market and prep it at home.
For couples
Make one simple recipe together — fruit salad, galette, smoothie, anything.
At the office
Bring a real fruit platter, not the sad office kind. It disappears fast.
At school
Tie it into a nutrition lesson or a simple classroom tasting.
In your community
Donate fresh produce to a food pantry — it's always needed and often missing.
On your own
Eat it at peak, slowly, outside if the weather allows.