National Iced Tea Iced Tea Day

A glass filled with iced tea, with condensation dripping down the sides, adorned with fresh mint leaves and a lemon slice. A sunny outdoor picnic scene in the background.. — National iced tea iced tea day illustration

Hey there, tea enthusiasts! Get ready to sip on something refreshing because it's National Iced Tea Day! This delightful holiday is dedicated to the beloved beverage that has been cooling us down and quenching our thirst for centuries. So grab your favorite glass, fill it to the brim with ice, add a slice of lemon if you're feeling fancy, and let's dive into the fascinating world of iced tea!

When is Iced Tea Iced Tea Day?

It's national iced tea iced tea day on the 10th June.

A Brief History of Iced Tea

Although iced tea may seem like a modern invention, its roots go way back to the 18th century. Legend has it that in 1904, during the scorching St. Louis World's Fair, a tea merchant named Richard Blechynden faced a challenge. People attending the fair were not interested in hot tea because of the sweltering weather. Determined to boost his sales, Blechynden decided to pour his tea over ice, creating a refreshing and cool drink that instantly became a hit. And just like that, iced tea was born!

It didn't take long for iced tea to gain popularity across the United States. In the 1920s, the widespread availability of refrigeration made it even easier to enjoy this chilled beverage at home or at restaurants. By the mid-20th century, iced tea had become a staple of Southern cuisine and a beloved summer drink for people all around the country.

The Rise of Iced Tea on the Internet

In today's digital age, iced tea has earned itself a special place in online culture. Social media platforms are teeming with mouthwatering pictures of iced tea, along with creative recipes and fun variations. Whether you're a fan of classic sweet tea or prefer to experiment with fruity infusions or herbal blends, the internet is the perfect place to find inspiration for your next glass of iced awesomeness.

Popular hashtags like #IcedTeaTime and #ThirstyThursday abound on Twitter and Instagram, attracting tea enthusiasts from all walks of life. From cute tea-related memes to drool-worthy photos, the internet has become a hub for iced tea lovers to connect, share recipes, and bask in the glory of this delicious beverage.

Drink, Relax, and Celebrate

So how can you celebrate National Iced Tea Day? Well, it's quite simple! Take a break from the hustle and bustle of life, pour yourself a glass of chilled tea, and let the refreshing goodness wash over you. Whether you're enjoying it alone, with loved ones, or at a lively gathering, iced tea has a way of bringing people together and creating moments of pure bliss. Let's raise our glasses, toast to this marvelous day, and appreciate the simple pleasure of sipping on some ice-cold deliciousness.

History behind the term 'Iced Tea Iced Tea'

1904

The St. Louis World's Fair

In 1904, at the St. Louis World's Fair, iced tea made its first major appearance. Due to the unbearable heat, fairgoers were looking for a refreshing alternative to the hot beverages and discovered the delightful taste of iced tea. It quickly gained popularity and became a popular choice among visitors.

1907

First Printed Recipe

In 1907, the first printed recipe for iced tea appeared in a cookbook called "The Buckeye Cookbook". The recipe suggested sweetening the tea with sugar and serving it over ice. This recipe helped to spread the preparation method and further popularized the term 'iced tea'.

1908

The Tea Bag Invention

The tea bag was invented by Thomas Sullivan, a tea merchant from New York, in 1908. Initially, the tea bags were intended as samples for his customers, but people started to use the bags directly in their cups or pitchers to brew iced tea. This innovation made it easier for people to prepare iced tea without the need for loose tea leaves.

1910

Mass Production of Iced Tea

In 1910, iced tea began to be mass-produced and bottled. Companies realized the demand for pre-brewed and chilled teas, making it convenient for consumers to enjoy iced tea without the need for preparation. This mass production further fueled the popularity and availability of iced tea.

1920s

Iced Tea Becomes a National Beverage

By the 1920s, iced tea had firmly established itself as a beloved beverage throughout the United States. It became especially popular in the southern states, where the hot climate and the abundance of tea plantations made it a refreshing and easily available drink. Iced tea became a symbol of regional identity and a part of Southern culture.

1940s

Rise of Sweet Tea

In the 1940s, sweet tea emerged as a popular variation of iced tea, particularly in the South. Sweet tea is made by adding sugar to the tea while it is still warm, creating a sweetened base. This style of iced tea gained immense popularity and became a staple beverage in Southern homes and restaurants.

Did you know?

Did you know that the world's largest glass of iced tea was made in 2015? It measured a whopping 11 feet tall and contained over 9,000 gallons of this beloved beverage! That's enough tea to keep you hydrated for a lifetime!