National Coffee Day
Coffee lovers celebrate National Coffee Day on September 29th to celebrate their love for the country's favorite beverage. If you are one of those people who cannot start their day without sipping on a cup of coffee, this is your reason to celebrate.
The smell of freshly brewed coffee in the morning is irresistible to almost everyone. Whether you love the classic Americano or prefer the trendy Flat White, make sure to have the perfect cup (or cups) of coffee today!
Coffee lovers are in luck because just two days after National Coffee Day, they can celebrate International Coffee Day on October 1st.
Background of National Coffee Day
National Coffee Day was created by the National Coffee Association. The concept of a dedicated day to celebrate coffee gained popularity in the 20th century.
In the United States, the first official National Coffee Day is believed to have been established on September 29, 2005, by the National Coffee Association (NCA), a trade organization that represents the U.S. coffee industry.
The NCA aimed to promote coffee consumption and raise awareness about the economic, social, and environmental issues faced by coffee farmers and workers worldwide.
Over time, National Coffee Day gained recognition and became an occasion for various coffee-related promotions, events, and charitable initiatives.
However, the date for National Coffee Day varies from country to country. In some nations, such as Australia and the United Kingdom, coffee celebrations take place on different dates throughout the year.
Additionally, various organizations, including coffee associations, chains, and advocacy groups, have introduced their own versions of Coffee Day to highlight their specific causes or initiatives.
National Coffee Day has become a global phenomenon, reflecting the widespread appreciation and enjoyment of coffee across cultures.
Whether it's recognizing the hard work of coffee farmers, promoting sustainable and fair trade practices, or simply indulging in a freshly brewed cup, this day allows people to come together and celebrate the rich history and diverse flavors of one of the world's most beloved beverages
History of Coffee
Evidence shows that the first coffee was enjoyed in 15th century Yemen, where monks from the Sufi monasteries in Mokha first roasted beans and brewed coffee. Traders then brought the seed to Ethiopia, so that they could cultivate and farm coffee beans.
Mokha first roasted beans and brewed coffee. Traders then brought the seed to Ethiopia, so that they could cultivate and farm coffee beans.
Coffee arrived in Europe by way of Venice in 1615, where it was deemed to be 'Satan's drink' due to its bitter taste. The drink, however, eventually got the approval of the Pope himself, and the first coffee house opened in Venice in 1645.
The drink became popular in North America in 1773 when Americans revolted against the British tea tax and replaced tea with coffee as their preferred drink. James Folger was one of the first people to successfully sell coffee in the 19th century. The drink also traveled across Canada where the first business to call itself a coffee house opened in Toronto in 1801.
In the 1960s people became interested in the concept of specialty coffee and Starbucks was founded in 1971. Today, the coffee industry is worth around $45 billion in the United States, and $18 billion in Canada, that's a total of $63 billion!
As the interest in good coffee grows, so do the different ways of brewing it and the appearance of independent coffee shops, where coffee connoisseurs can try the latest flavors and roasts from around the world. Professional coffee tasters are called cuppers; according to them, the perfect cup of coffee depends on its body, acidity, aroma, and flavor. This is all determined by the bean, the roast, and the brew of the coffee.
The Popularity of Coffee
Without a doubt, coffee is the nation's most popular drink. In 2015 a survey showed that 59% of Americans said that they regularly drink coffee, the second most popular drink, bottled water was enjoyed by 58% of the nation. 53% of the public regularly drink soft drinks and 47% drink tea.
According to the Coffee Association of Canada, 71% of Canadians drink coffee, whereas 63% drink tap water and 48% drink tea.
In both countries, the popularity of coffee grows among older generations, with 18-24yr old being the least likely surveyed group to drink coffee.
Top 5 Popular Coffee Beverages
Although, the ranking of coffees varies from time to time depending on personal preferences. However, the following five beverages have gained significant popularity and are widely enjoyed by coffee enthusiasts worldwide:
- Espresso: The strong coffee shot is created by pushing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans to create a concentrated shot of coffee.
- Cappuccino: The classic Italian beverage made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and frothed milk is typically served in a small cup and is cherished for its balanced flavors and luxurious foam layer.
- Latte: The prevalent coffee beverage consisting of espresso and steamed milk has a higher milk-to-espresso ratio compared to cappuccinos, resulting in a creamier and milder taste.
- Americano: The simple yet satisfying beverage made by diluting espresso with hot water resembles traditional drip coffee but has a stronger flavor profile due to the espresso base.
- Mocha: The heavenly concoction of espresso, chocolate, and steamed milk is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their coffee.
Drinks such as Flat White and Cortado have become more popular in recent years, as has the trend of using alternative milk such as oat milk, almond, or even pea.
What to do on National Coffee Day
The good news for coffee drinkers is that many coffee shops and restaurants have offers free coffee or discounted coffee on National Coffee Day. Whether you prefer to get yours to go or you like to sit down and calmly enjoy your coffee, make sure to visit your favorite place to take advantage of the offers.
If you are trying to get more into coffee and try different roasts and brews, see if there are any coffee-tasting or cupping events in coffee shops near you and attend them. This would also be a great way to know people who are also interested in coffee.
Other Coffee Associated Days
