Every May 20th, individuals are provided with a delightful reason to step outdoors, relish the fresh air, bask in the sunshine, and eventually indulge in the sweetness of freshly picked strawberries. This special occasion is none other than National Pick Strawberries Day, a celebration encouraging people to venture out and gather their own strawberries.

Participating in the act of strawberry picking on this holiday serves as a compelling excuse to temporarily abandon the electronic distractions within one's home and immerse oneself in the natural delights offered by Mother Nature. As strawberries become the tasty reward for observing this day, it's worth contemplating delectable culinary creations. Perhaps, a tempting strawberry pie could be a fitting choice.

Purpose of National Pick Strawberries Day

The day serves several purposes:

• Celebrate the strawberry harvest: Strawberries are typically in season during late spring and early summer, making May an ideal time to pick them.
• Promote healthy eating: Strawberries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any diet.
• Support local farms: Many strawberry farms offer "pick-your-own" opportunities, which allow consumers to visit the farm and pick fresh strawberries directly from the plant. This supports local agriculture and provides a farm-to-table experience.
• Encourage outdoor activities: Picking strawberries is a great way to get outside, enjoy the fresh air, and participate in a fun, family-friendly activity.

History of National Pick Strawberries Day

The National Pick Strawberries Day likely grew out of the traditional strawberry-picking season in the United States, which peaks around May in many regions. Strawberries have been a beloved fruit in America for centuries, and the activity of picking them from fields has become an enjoyable outdoor tradition in many communities.

How to Celebrate National Pick Strawberries Day

1. Visit a Local Strawberry Farm: Many farms across the United States offer strawberry picking during the late spring. You can check for farms near your area that allow visitors to come and pick their own strawberries. This hands-on experience is enjoyable for people of all ages.

2. Grow Your Own Strawberries: If you have a garden, consider planting strawberries. Strawberries can grow in gardens, raised beds, or even pots, making them an accessible plant to cultivate. Picking strawberries from your own garden is a rewarding experience.

3. Enjoy Strawberry-Based Recipes: Once you’ve picked your strawberries, try using them in a variety of recipes:

   • Strawberry shortcake
   • Strawberry pie
   • Strawberry jam
   • Strawberry smoothies
   • Strawberries with whipped cream or chocolate

4. Learn About Strawberries: This day can also be used as an opportunity to learn more about strawberries. Teach children how strawberries grow, the importance of pollination, and the benefits of eating fresh fruit.

5. Share Strawberries: Since strawberries are easy to pick in large quantities, consider sharing your harvest with neighbors, friends, or family. You can also donate fresh strawberries to local food banks or shelters.

6. Try New Strawberry Varieties: There are many types of strawberries, and visiting a local farm or market may allow you to try different varieties that aren’t commonly sold in stores. Some examples include Alpine, Jewel, or Chandler strawberries.

Nutritional Benefits of Strawberries

Strawberries are not just a sweet treat; they are packed with nutrients and offer numerous health benefits:

• Rich in vitamin C: Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin health.
• Antioxidant properties: Strawberries are full of antioxidants, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• High in fiber: The fiber content in strawberries supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• Low in calories: A serving of strawberries is low in calories, making them a healthy and guilt-free snack option.

Fun Facts About Strawberries

• Strawberries are the only fruit with seeds on the outside: Each strawberry has about 200 seeds on its surface.
• A member of the rose family: Strawberries are part of the Rosaceae family, which also includes apples, pears, and roses.
• California leads strawberry production in the U.S.: California produces nearly 90% of all strawberries grown in the United States.
• Strawberries are ancient: Strawberries have been enjoyed for thousands of years. Native Americans were known to eat strawberries long before European settlers arrived in North America.

Modern Strawberry Picking Tips

• Best time to pick: Early morning or late afternoon tends to be the best time to pick strawberries, as the cooler temperatures help preserve the fruit’s freshness.
• Choose ripe berries: Strawberries do not ripen after being picked, so it’s important to choose fully ripe, red berries. Avoid those with white or green tips.
• Handle with care: Strawberries bruise easily, so handle them gently and avoid piling too many on top of each other in your basket.
• Store properly: Fresh strawberries are best eaten within a few days of being picked, but they can also be frozen for longer storage. To freeze, rinse the berries, pat them dry, and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight container.

Conclusion

National Pick Strawberries Day is a delightful celebration of the strawberry harvest and a reminder of the joys of fresh, healthy food. Whether you visit a local farm to pick strawberries, make a delicious strawberry dessert, or simply enjoy a bowl of fresh strawberries, this day provides a perfect opportunity to savor one of spring's sweetest fruits. It also encourages families and communities to come together for an outdoor activity that supports local agriculture and promotes healthy living.