Date
Tuesday
Apr

April 1-30

Fresh Florida Tomato Month

Enjoy the taste of summer all month long with Fresh Florida Tomato Month - indulge in delicious tomato dishes and recipes while supporting local farmers!

Yearly Date
April 1
Type
Month

Introduction

Get ready to savor the delicious taste of Florida tomatoes all month long as we celebrate Fresh Florida Tomato Month on April 1! Did you know that Florida is known as the "Tomato Capital of the World" and produces over one-third of the country's fresh tomatoes? These juicy red fruits (yes, they are technically fruits!) have been a staple in Florida agriculture for centuries and have become a beloved ingredient in countless dishes. So let's raise our forks and toast to this versatile and tasty produce – whether it's in a salad, on a sandwich, or blended into a savory sauce. Happy Fresh Florida Tomato Month!

Fresh Florida Tomato Month Timeline

1800s
Tomato Cultivation Begins
In the 1800s, farmers in Florida began cultivating tomatoes, capitalizing on the state's favorable climate and soil conditions.
1908
First Tomato Canning Factory
Florida's first tomato canning factory opened in 1908, greatly expanding the tomato industry in the state.
1923
Florida Tomato Committee Est.
The Florida Tomato Committee was established in 1923 to oversee quality control, marketing, and research for the state's tomato industry.
1953
Fresh From Florida Program
Florida Department of Agriculture launched the "Fresh From Florida" program in 1953 to promote locally grown fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes.
1989
First Fresh Florida Tomato Month
The inaugural Fresh Florida Tomato Month was held in April 1989, celebrating the state's vibrant tomato industry and raising awareness about the importance of supporting local farmers.
2000s
Increasing Tomato Exports
In the 2000s, global demand for Florida tomatoes increased substantially, with exports to various countries around the world.

How to Celebrate Fresh Florida Tomato Month

1

Visit a local tomato farm

Take a trip to a local tomato farm and learn about the process of growing and harvesting tomatoes. You can also pick your own fresh tomatoes to take home and use in delicious recipes.

2

Host a tomato-themed dinner party

Gather your friends and family for a dinner party where all the dishes feature fresh Florida tomatoes. From tomato bruschetta to caprese salad, there are endless possibilities for incorporating this seasonal ingredient into your menu.

3

Attend a cooking class focused on tomatoes

Sign up for a cooking class that specializes in tomato-based dishes. You'll learn new recipes and techniques for using fresh Florida tomatoes in your cooking.

4

Visit a farmer's market

Head to your local farmer's market and stock up on fresh Florida tomatoes. Not only will you be supporting local farmers, but you'll also have access to the freshest and most flavorful tomatoes.

5

Create tomato-inspired crafts

Get creative and make some tomato-themed crafts to celebrate Fresh Florida Tomato Month. From painting tomato designs on mason jars to making tomato-shaped ornaments, the possibilities are endless.

Why We Love Fresh Florida Tomato Month

A

Fresh Florida tomatoes are delicious

There's nothing quite like the taste of a juicy, ripe Florida tomato. With its perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, it's a staple in many dishes and adds incredible flavor to any meal.

B

Fresh Florida tomatoes support local farmers

By celebrating Fresh Florida Tomato Month, we are also supporting our local farmers. Buying produce from local farmers not only supports their businesses, but it also helps reduce our carbon footprint by choosing locally-sourced products.

C

Fresh Florida tomatoes make for versatile meals

From salads to sandwiches to sauces, fresh Florida tomatoes can be used in a variety of delicious and healthy meals. They add color and tanginess to any dish and can be incorporated into different cuisines for a unique twist on traditional recipes.

Fresh Florida Tomato Month Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Mar 31
Friday
2024
Mar 31
Sunday
2025
Mar 31
Monday
2026
Mar 31
Tuesday
2027
Mar 31
Wednesday