Worldwide Tea Commemoration on 2025: Honoring Emotional Connections and Global Customs
International Tea Day: Celebrating the Cultural and Economic Significance of Tea
The world celebrates tea on two distinct days – one unofficial, the other officially recognized by the United Nations.
Since 2005, tea-producing countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Vietnam, Indonesia, Kenya, Uganda, and Malawi have been observing their version of International Tea Day on December 15. This day stands as a call to action for sustainable agricultural practices, fairer trade, and the empowerment of people who rely on tea for their livelihoods.
However, the United Nations declared May 21 as International Tea Day in 2020. The primary objective of this day is to raise awareness about tea's cultural and economic significance. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN leads the global celebrations.
The UN's declaration came after the International Tea Day was initiated by the FAO of the United Nations and was officially recognized by the United Nations General Assembly in 2019.
China, known for its rich and diverse tea culture, hosts practices like gongfu tea ceremonies that emphasize the art of brewing and appreciating tea. Japan, too, has a tea ceremony known as chanoyu or sado, which emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquillity. In Japan, guests enter through a low door, symbolizing humility.
In India, chai is a cultural staple, made by brewing black tea leaves with milk, sugar, and spices like cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger. Chaiwalas (tea vendors) serve steaming cups of chai across the country, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and community.
The popularity of afternoon tea, a British tradition, reflects the country's colonial history and enduring love for tea. Anna, the Duchess of Bedford, introduced afternoon tea in the 1840s. Afternoon tea consists of finger sandwiches, fresh scones, pastries, cakes, and tea.
In Morocco, mint tea is served as a sign of hospitality. In Russia, tea is traditionally prepared using a samovar and often enjoyed with sugar, lemon, or jam. In Tibet, butter tea, made by churning tea with yak butter and salt, is a staple and provides warmth and energy in high-altitude regions.
Modern tea culture emphasizes sustainability, wellness, and community, with teahouses hosting events and workshops. International Tea Day serves as a reminder of tea's profound impact on societies worldwide and its ability to bring people together, transcending cultural boundaries.
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