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National Walnut Day

Celebrate National Walnut Day with delicious recipes, health benefits, and tips for incorporating more walnuts into your diet!

Monday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 17

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYSnacks

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Walnut Day on May 17! This special day has been around since the early 2000s, when it was first created to honor the tasty and nutritious walnuts that are found all over the world. Not only do walnuts contain important nutrients like protein, fiber, and healthy fats - but they also have a unique flavor that can be added to sweet or savory dishes. So why not use this special day as an excuse to enjoy some deliciousness?

TIMELINE

National Walnut Day Timeline

Discovery of Walnuts

Archaeological finds suggest that walnuts were being consumed by humans as long as 9,000 years ago, making them one of the oldest known tree foods.

Cultivation by Ancient Persians

Walnuts were actively cultivated by the ancient Persians, who recognized their nutritional benefits.

Introduction to America

Spanish missionaries brought the walnut to California, which would later become a central hub for walnut cultivation in the United States.

Commercial Cultivation in America

Joseph Sexton planted an English walnut orchard in Goleta, California, initiating the commercial cultivation of walnuts in America.

Proclamation of National Walnut Day

President Dwight D. Eisenhower officially recognized National Walnut Day, originally celebrated in June, to promote the consumption of walnuts.

Change of Date

In the early 2000s, the date of National Walnut Day is changed to May 17, aligning more closely with the walnut growing and harvesting period.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Walnut Day

Bake walnut treats

Get creative in the kitchen and whip up some delicious walnut treats. From walnut brownies to walnut cookies, there's a recipe for everyone.

HOST

Host a walnut party

Invite your friends over and celebrate National Walnut Day with a fun, food-filled party. Serve dishes featuring walnuts like salads, smoothies, and more.

MAKE

Make walnut art

Grab some paper, glue, paint, and of course, walnuts. Get creative and make some unique pieces of art.

TAKE

Take a hike

Head outdoors and take a hike to find some wild walnuts. Make sure you have the right tools so you don't damage any trees!

PLANT

Plant a tree

Give back to nature by planting a new walnut tree in your backyard or local park. It will take years to see the fruits of your labor but it will be worth it!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Walnut Day

Walnuts can be used for baking

Want to put a twist on your favorite dessert? Try adding some chopped walnuts! Walnut pieces are perfect for sprinkling over cakes and muffins, as well as being added into cookie batters. The possibilities are endless - so why not give it a go this National Walnut Day?

Walnuts are nutritious

Walnuts are an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals, including protein, folate, magnesium, iron and zinc. They are also a great source of healthy fats that help to reduce inflammation and improve your overall health. Plus, they have a sweet nutty flavor that is sure to please!

Walnuts are easy to store

Unlike some other nuts, walnuts don't require special storage conditions or airtight containers. Simply keep them in a cool and dry place - like a pantry - and you're all set! They'll stay fresh for up to six months after opening.