World Coconut Day
Although most people probably don’t give them much thought unless they’re drinking coconut water or a Piña Colada, coconuts are important dry drupes. They are used by people all over the world as a source of food and nutrition, are widely used for cosmetics and building materials, and are important for cooking.
Their cultivation also provides employment for millions of people and is an important commodity for many tropical countries. Because of its importance to the world, it should be no surprise that a holiday was invented to celebrate it. This holiday is known as World Coconut Day, and it’s observed annually on September 2nd.
The History of World Coconut Day
The Austronesian peoples in Island Southeast Asia were among the first peoples to domesticate coconuts before they spread them through seaborne migrations to Madagascar, Comoros, and the Pacific Islands.
Coconuts were vital to Austronesian peoples, who used them as a portable source of food and water for long sea voyages, as well as the materials they needed for building their ships. Today, about 75% of the world’s coconut supply is produced by India, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
World Coconut Day was invented by the Asia and Pacific Coconut Community in 2009 to promote the activities of coconut growers while raising awareness about the importance of this “fruit.”
It has since been observed by people all over the world. Every year, this holiday highlights the things that can be done with coconuts and encourages people to use coconut products.
Observing World Coconut Day
World Coconut Day is a holiday that can be observed by anyone and everyone who enjoys coconuts in one form or another. Coconut oil can be used for baking and frying and can also be used as a substitute for butter.
Coconut milk can be used in a variety of cocktails and smoothies and can even be used to enhance the flavor of coffee. And, of course, coconut flakes can be used for making a variety of sweet products.
Anyone and everyone observing this holiday can let the world know how they’re observing this holiday by using the hashtag #WorldCoconutDay on social media.