April 17

National Banana Day

Treat yourself on National Banana Day and enjoy delicious recipes featuring the king of fruits!

Yearly Date
Third Wednesday in April
Type
Day

Introduction

It's time to celebrate National Banana Day on the third Wednesday of April! Bananas have been around for centuries and are beloved by many for their sweet taste, creamy texture, and numerous health benefits. They are also incredibly versatile - you can bake them in a cake, fry them up in a stir-fry, or just eat them plain. No matter how you choose to enjoy bananas, it's sure to be a delicious experience. So grab some friends and get ready to celebrate this tasty day with all the banana-y goodness you can handle!

National Banana Day Timeline

550s
Bananas Arrive in Africa and Madagascar
From Southeast Asia, bananas were introduced to Africa and Madagascar by Indonesian traders and explorers.
1422
Bananas in Europe
Bananas made their first appearance in Europe, mentioned in texts by physician Giovanni da Vigo. These fruits were rare and considered luxury items.
1588
Bananas Migrated with Slaves
As slave trade grew during the 15th to 19th centuries, bananas were transported to the Americas along with enslaved Africans. This marked the start of bananas in the Western Hemisphere.
1870
Commercial Banana Production
The rise of commercial banana plantations began in Costa Rica, with fruit companies like United Fruit Company paving the way for international banana trade.
1960
Banana in Popular Culture
The Chiquita banana song became popular, boosting the fruit's appeal and making it a prominent part of American pop culture.
2000
National Banana Day Creation
National Banana Day was established as a once-a-year celebration in the United States, devoted to appreciating the impact and contributions of bananas.

How to Celebrate National Banana Day

1

Bake a banana bread

Nothing says National Banana Day like a nice, warm banana bread. You can use your favorite recipes and switch up the ingredients to make it something special.

2

Make smoothie bowls

Smoothie bowls are a great way to celebrate National Banana Day. Start off with a base of banana, then add whatever other fruits and toppings you like.

3

Make banana splits

A classic dessert, banana splits are a great way to celebrate National Banana Day. Top them off with your favorite ice cream flavors and toppings.

4

Make banana pancakes

Add some mashed bananas to your favorite pancake recipe for a delicious breakfast that celebrates National Banana Day.

5

Fry some bananas

Slice up some bananas and fry them in butter and cinnamon for a tasty dessert. Serve with some whipped cream or ice cream for extra deliciousness.

Why We Love National Banana Day

A

Bananas are nutritious

Bananas are full of vitamins and minerals that our bodies need to stay healthy. They contain a lot of dietary fiber, which helps promote digestion, as well as potassium, magnesium, vitamin C and B6. Plus, they provide the body with energy and can help reduce stress!

B

Bananas are delicious

There's a reason why bananas are such a popular snack - they taste amazing! Whether you prefer them sliced and served on top of cereal or yogurt, mashed into banana bread or pancakes, or simply eaten plain - their sweet flavor makes them the perfect treat for any time of day!

C

Bananas are versatile

You can use bananas in all sorts of recipes to add sweetness without adding sugar. Smoothies, ice cream, muffins and cakes are just some examples of how you can incorporate this incredible fruit into your meals. It's also great for baking because it naturally adds moisture and texture to your baked goods!

National Banana Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Apr 18
Tuesday
2024
Apr 16
Tuesday
2025
Apr 15
Tuesday
2026
Apr 14
Tuesday
2027
Apr 20
Tuesday