For those of you #Homeschooling or want to get out into Nature this weekend you should celebrate February 27th National Strawberry Day and go Strawberry picking which would be a #Homeschool #FieldTrip.
For cooking class you could prepare a Strawberry Pie or any recipe that includes Strawberries in it. Then in Music Class you could listen to songs featuring Strawberries. For reading class you could read books about Strawberries.
Come and join us on National Strawberry Day which falls on February 27th every year, adding an extra aphrodisiac to this month of love. Strawberries are devilishly sweet, and also delightfully low in calories, Strawberries are the perfect food to make you feel naughty and nice at the same time. Grown both around the U.S. and around the world almost year-round, you’re never far from a supplier of this tasty tongue-tickler to help you celebrate National Strawberry Day!
Did you know Strawberries have grown in the wild for thousands of years, and it was the French who first brought this delicious red berry into their gardens for cultivation in the 14th Century? Not long afterward, English Archbishop Thomas Wolsey created the winning combination of Strawberries and Cream for Henry VIII’s Court that so many people still enjoy today.
However, the early species of Strawberries were very different from those we feast on now. It wasn’t until 1712 that a French excursion to Chile resulted in the mixing of different types of Strawberry Plants, and the Garden Strawberry we know today was born.
In the early 19th Century, love for Strawberries spread quickly when Strawberries and Cream were seen as a luxury, and the invention of the railroad meant that Strawberries could be transported quickly all around the Country. New York produced bumper crops and farms also sprang up in Arkansas, Louisiana, Florida, and Tennessee. Now, 75% of U.S. Strawberries are grown in California, but Strawberries are still grown in every State.
The Berry’s name may be due to a number of reasons: some argue that it comes from the Old English “Streawberige” because of its straw-like fronds. Others suggest that they’re so called because of farmers mulching them with straw, and there are also accounts that the berries were sold on straw skewers at markets.
The origins of National Strawberry Day are unclear, but it has been celebrated since at least 2013. Its heart-shape and bright red color make the Strawberry a symbol of love that is perfect for the romantic month of February.
National Strawberry Day Activities
- If you’ve thought ahead, you’ll have planted your Strawberry Seeds last April and now the Strawberry Plants will be bearing their delicious red fruit. So you only need to pluck the Strawberries off the stalks and feast on nature’s bounty.
- Put your creativity to the test and try carving Strawberries to impress your friends. With a little dexterity, you can sculpt Strawberries into Roses in honor of their plant family.
- Did you know there are many great songs featuring Strawberries? Including ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’ by The Beatles to Coldplay’s ‘Strawberry Swing.’ Why not make a playlist as a musical backdrop to celebrate National Strawberry Day.
Facts About Strawberries
- Strawberries were a Roman remedy and the Ancient Romans believed the Fruit had medicinal purposes and prescribed them for minor ailments including sore throats, as well as more serious problems like a fever and long-term issues like depression.
- Did you know the Strawberry is not technically considered a Berry? The Strawberry’s seeds are on the outside and there is around 200 seeds. In fact, Strawberries is the only fruit with external seeds, giving it its own special category.
- Strawberries’ flavor can be very variable, and this is because Strawberries are influenced by a variety of factors, including type of Strawberry, the weather, and the time of harvest.
- The Strawberry is a member of the Rose family, which explains its fragrant scent and bright color.
- The magnesium, potassium, and folate found in Strawberries mean they encourage a healthy libido and makes Strawberries a romantic fruit and an aphrodisiac for many.
Why People Love National Strawberry Day
Did you know Strawberries are believed to help reduce the risk of heart disease and even certain Cancers thanks to their vitamins, fiber, potassium, and acids? Eating Strawberries can give short-term pleasure as well as long-term results.
Did you know the Strawberry is the first fruit to ripen in the Spring. S? When the first Strawberries appear, it’s a sure sign that warmer weather is on the way and you can taste a new Season in the air.
Strawberries are so versatile that they are grown in every single U.S. State and Canadian province. That means wherever you are, you can celebrate with local produce.
Ingredients
1 pound fresh strawberries, about 18 medium strawberries
1 cup dark, milk, or white chocolate chips
1 teaspoon refined coconut oil
Optional toppings to decorate, like sprinkles or more chocolate to drizzle
Directions
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Rinse your strawberries and then pat each one completely dry. Let them come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes.
Place chocolate chips in a small, microwave-safe bowl. Microwave chocolate in increments of 20 seconds, stirring every increment, until melted.
Mix in coconut oil until smooth.
Hold a strawberry by the stem and dip it in the chocolate, tilting the bowl if needed for better coverage. For a decorative touch, leave a small red border at the top of the strawberry. Let excess chocolate drip off.
Place dipped strawberry on the lined baking sheet. Immediately decorate while the chocolate is still wet.
Repeat steps 4 and 5 for other strawberries.
Let them set at room temperature for 30 minutes or in the fridge for 15 minutes before enjoying.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
