April 21 – National Tea Day

National Tea Day is today!

As avid tea drinkers, we can all raise our cups to the annual celebration of National Tea Day. This special day gives us the chance to not only indulge in our favorite blends, but also learn more about the fascinating history of this beloved beverage. From the traditional tea ceremonies of Japan to the cozy and comforting British teatime, tea has been an important part of cultures around the world for centuries.

Whether you prefer a classic Earl Grey or a fragrant jasmine green tea, National Tea Day is the perfect opportunity to savor a warm cup and appreciate the beauty and complexity of this simple yet profound drink. So let’s sit back, relax, and cheers to another year of National Tea Day!

HISTORY OF TEA

The history of tea dates back to ancient China. Legend has it that in 2737 BCE, Emperor Shen Nong discovered tea when tea leaves accidentally fell into his boiling water. From China, tea spread to Japan and Korea in the early 9th century, and then to Europe in the 16th century. Tea quickly became a valuable commodity, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that tea became a widespread drink in Britain. Today, tea is enjoyed all over the world and comes in countless varieties and flavors. Whether you prefer a classic cup of English Breakfast or a fragrant cup of Chai, the history of tea is full of fascinating stories and cultural significance.

TEN FASCINATING FACTS ABOUT TEA

1.  Origins in China: Tea has its origins in ancient China, dating back to the 3rd century BCE, where it was initially consumed for its medicinal properties.
2. Global Popularity: Tea is the second most consumed beverage in the world, surpassed only by water. Its popularity spans various cultures and traditions.
3. Types of Tea: The four main types of tea—green, black, white, and oolong—all come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis. The differences arise from processing methods.
4. Oldest Tea Leaves: Archaeologists discovered the world’s oldest tea leaves in the tomb of a Chinese emperor from the Han Dynasty (206 BCE – 220 CE). The leaves are over 2,100 years old.
5. Tea Bag Invention: The tea bag was invented accidentally in the early 20th century. New York merchant Thomas Sullivan started sending samples of tea in small silk bags, and customers mistakenly steeped the entire bag.
6. Tea and Trade: Tea played a significant role in historical trade routes. The Silk Road facilitated the exchange of tea between China and the West, contributing to the global spread of the beverage.
7. Tea Ceremony in Japan: The Japanese tea ceremony, known as “Chanoyu” or “Sadō,” is a cultural ritual centered around the preparation, serving, and drinking of matcha (powdered green tea).
8. Tea and the Boston Tea Party: The Boston Tea Party in 1773, a pivotal event leading to the American Revolution, was a protest against British-imposed tea taxes. Colonists dumped 342 chests of tea into Boston Harbor.
9. Tea and the British Empire: Tea played a crucial role in the British Empire’s expansion. The British established tea plantations in India and Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) to reduce dependence on Chinese tea.
10. Tea Houses in Turkey: In Turkey, tea is a vital part of social life. Turkish tea houses, known as “çay evi,” are popular gathering places where people come together to enjoy conversations over glasses of black tea.

TEN TEAS TO TRY

1.  Chamomile Tea: Known for its calming properties, chamomile tea has a mild, floral flavor that makes it a soothing choice before bedtime.
2. Green Tea: Packed with antioxidants, green tea offers a refreshing and slightly earthy taste, ranging from grassy to sweet, depending on the variety.
3. Peppermint Tea: Invigorating and refreshing, peppermint tea has a cool menthol flavor that can help with digestion and provide a burst of energy.
4. Earl Grey Tea: A classic black tea infused with bergamot oil, Earl Grey offers a fragrant and citrusy flavor, making it a favorite for tea enthusiasts.
5. Chai Tea: A spiced black tea, chai combines flavors like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, creating a warming and aromatic blend.
6. Jasmine Tea: Scented with jasmine flowers, this green or white tea has a delicate and floral taste, offering a calming and aromatic experience.
7. Hibiscus Tea: Vibrantly red and tart, hibiscus tea is rich in antioxidants and has a refreshing, fruity flavor with a slightly tangy kick.
8. Oolong Tea: With a taste profile between green and black tea, oolong offers a range of flavors from floral and fruity to toasty and nutty, depending on the oxidation level.
9. Rooibos Tea: A caffeine-free herbal tea, rooibos has a mild and sweet flavor with hints of nuttiness, making it a popular choice for a relaxing beverage.
10. Lemon Ginger Tea: Combining the zesty notes of lemon with the warming spice of ginger, this herbal infusion offers a flavorful and invigorating experience, perfect for boosting immunity.

HOW TO CELEBRATE NATIONAL TEA DAY

Celebrate the elegance and diversity of tea on National Tea Day! ☕ Explore the rich history, cultural significance, and myriad flavors of this beloved beverage. From the soothing rituals of a Japanese tea ceremony to the vibrant chai stalls in India, discover the global tapestry woven by tea. Join enthusiasts worldwide in toasting to National Tea Day by indulging in your favorite brew, whether it’s the calming notes of chamomile or the bold richness of black tea. Dive into the art of steeping, sipping, and savoring as we raise our cups in celebration of the timeless tradition that is tea. 🍵✨

1.  Host a tea party.  More.
2.  Purchase beautiful new tea things. and here.
3.  Get the book, “The Art of Tea.”
4.  Find afternoon tea venues in every state.
5.  If you love the article image, purchase it on these fun products on Zazzle!
6.  Download the 38 Hertz Celebration Book for 365 days of celebrations!

Note:  If the above links do not direct you to the appropriate referral on the first try, return to the article and try again.

Do you have any ideas about how to celebrate National Tea Day?  Please share them!