National Walnut Day

Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Dec 22, 2023 By Rajnandini Roychoudhury
Originally Published on Feb 11, 2022
Fact-checked by Vikhaash Sundararaj
National Walnut Day is the celebration of the black walnut, other walnuts, and their hard shell.

Where is National Walnut Day celebrated?

National Walnut Day originated in the United States, but it is now observed in many countries around the world.

Who is National Walnut Day celebrated by?

National Walnut Day is celebrated by walnut growers, food manufacturers, health professionals, and walnut enthusiasts.

When did National Walnut Day first start?

In 1949, the Walnut Marketing Board proposed National Walnut Day. However, it wasn't until 1958 that President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed an official Senate Resolution designating May 17 as National Walnut Day.

Who started National Walnut Day?

The Walnut Marketing Board is the proponent of National Walnut Day. This board was set up in 1933 by the Agricultural Adjustment Act. The objective of the Walnut Control Board was to assess the walnut crop and keep track of surplus production.

History And Timeline

The history of walnuts can be traced back to 7000 BC when the earliest cultivation of these nuts was noted from Rome. The Persian walnut came from the English walnut. Continue reading for more historical facts about this nutritious nut.

First Cultivation

In California, the first walnut cultivation was done by Franciscan Fathers.

1700s

Commercial Production

The first commercial production of English walnuts was done by Joseph Sexton in Santa Barbara County town.

1867

California Walnut Board

To protect and promote the interests of the walnut-growing community of California, the California Walnut Board was established.

1948

National Walnut Day

The Walnut Marketing Board initiated the idea of celebrating National Walnut Day.

1949

It Becomes Official!

President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a Senate Resolution declaring May 17 to be National Walnut Day.

1958

Traditions And Customs

There are no set traditions and customs for this special day.

Ways To Observe Or Celebrate National Walnut Day

Celebrate National Walnut Day by taking a trip to California to see walnut trees. Gift loved ones with super nutritious walnut oil or even a bag of walnuts. Experiment with walnuts by cooking with them or simply gather your friends and family and have a walnut cracking and eating competition.

Facts And Stats

  • Many cafes serve walnut-based recipes on this day!
  • National Walnut Day was officially declared almost ten years after it was first conceptualized.
  • The California Walnut Industry accounts for 99% of the commercial walnut supply in the United States. So, it should not be a real surprise that National Walnut Day is celebrated quite joyously in California.

What is May 17 the National Day of?

May 17 is National Walnut Day to celebrate walnuts.

Is there a National Day on May 17?

Yes, National Walnut Day falls on May 17.

Are walnuts good for your brain?

Walnuts not only look like the brain but are super good for brain development. Consuming nuts from the walnut tree can help reduce inflammation and also improve brain function.

What is the significance of National Walnut Day?

National Walnut Day is a day of significance because it highlights this superfood. Walnuts have the highest source of antioxidants and are rich in Omega-3 fatty acid, alpha-linolenic acid, magnesium, and fiber.

Who discovered walnuts?

It is unclear who discovered walnuts but the oldest remains of this tree nut have been found from 50,000 BC in Iraq.

How do people celebrate National Walnut Day?

People celebrate National Walnut Day by spreading the word about the health benefits of the walnut family. They also celebrate it by eating these popular nuts.

Who started National Walnut Day?

National Walnut Day was started by the Walnut Marketing Board.

What is the history and origins of National Walnut Day?

National Walnut Day was established by a Senate Resolution signed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1958, following its conception by the Walnut Marketing Board in 1949.

When Is This Day Celebrated

  • Sunday, May 17, 2020
  • Monday, May 17, 2021
  • Tuesday, May 17, 2022
  • Wednesday, May 17, 2023
  • Friday, May 17, 2024

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Written by Rajnandini Roychoudhury

Bachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

Rajnandini Roychoudhury picture

Rajnandini RoychoudhuryBachelor of Arts specializing in English, Master of Arts specializing in English

With a Master of Arts in English, Rajnandini has pursued her passion for the arts and has become an experienced content writer. She has worked with companies such as Writer's Zone and has had her writing skills recognized by publications such as The Telegraph. Rajnandini is also trilingual and enjoys various hobbies such as music, movies, travel, philanthropy, writing her blog, and reading classic British literature. 

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Fact-checked by Vikhaash Sundararaj

Bachelor of Fine Arts specializing in International Business

Vikhaash Sundararaj picture

Vikhaash SundararajBachelor of Fine Arts specializing in International Business

With a background in International Business Management, having completed his degree at the University of Hull. Vikhaash has volunteered with 'Teach For India' to help students create a monthly newsletter. In his free time, he enjoys sports and was the assistant captain of his school's hockey team. He has also gained marketing experience through an internship at Decathlon Sports India.

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