National Blueberry Popsicle Day September 2, 2024 is all about honoring that vivid blue hue and the sweet burst of berry flavor that blueberries bring to our favorite frozen treats. Popsicles—those refreshing sticks of frozen joy—are a simple pleasure that never fails to lift our spirits. But did you know that their history is as fascinating as their taste? Let’s explore!
The Accidental Invention of Popsicles
Our story begins in the winter of 1905, when an eleven-year-old boy named Frank Epperson had a serendipitous moment. Frank left a cup of soda (with a stirring stick in it) outside on a chilly night. By morning, the liquid had frozen solid around the stick, creating the very first ice lolly. Frank aptly named his discovery the “epsicle,” which later evolved into the more familiar term we use today: “popsicle”1.
From Epsicle to Popsicle: A Timeline
- 1880s: Canned Blueberries
- A blueberry canning plant sprouted in the Northeastern United States. Blueberries, those little antioxidant powerhouses, were already making their mark.
- 1905: Frank’s Discovery
- Young Frank Epperson’s accidental invention of the ice lolly. That forgotten cup of soda turned into something magical overnight.
- 1923: Patented Popsicles
- Frank Epperson officially patented his ice pops idea. The world now had a name for these frozen delights: popsicles.
- 1989: Popsicle Brand
- Unilever acquired the rights to the term “popsicle” and trademarked their brand. Suddenly, popsicles were everywhere, offering a rainbow of fruity flavors to beat the summer heat.
How to Celebrate National Blueberry Popsicle Day
- Enjoy a Blueberry Popsicle
- Sometimes celebrations are as simple as unwrapping a blueberry popsicle and savoring its sweet goodness. Treat yourself—you deserve it!
- Make Your Own Blueberry Popsicles
- Homemade popsicles are a breeze. No rocket science here! Find an easy recipe online, grab some blueberries, and freeze your way to happiness.
- Share on Social Media
- Use the hashtags #TeamBlueberryPopsicle and #NationalBlueberryPopsicleDay. Show off your frozen masterpiece and join the fruity fun.
Berry Sweet Facts About Blueberries
- Sweet and Nutritious
- One large handful of blueberries contains 10% of your daily recommended vitamin C and only 44 calories. Talk about a guilt-free indulgence!
- More Than Meets the Eye
- Blueberries are antioxidant powerhouses, ranking higher than many other fruits and veggies. They’re like tiny superheroes for your health.
- Naturally Blue
- The blueberry is one of the few foods that’s genuinely blue in color. No artificial dyes needed—just pure, natural blue wonder.
So, whether you’re licking a blueberry popsicle or dreaming of summer days, remember that National Blueberry Popsicle Day is a celebration of simple joys and accidental brilliance.
FAQs About National Blueberry Popsicle Day
Q1: Is there a National Popsicle Day?
A1: While there isn’t a specific National Popsicle Day, we’ve unofficially designated September 2 as the day to celebrate blueberry popsicles. Because, well, blueberries deserve the spotlight !
Q2: Who invented the Popsicle?
A2: Our accidental hero, Frank Epperson, gets the credit. His childhood curiosity led to a frozen sensation enjoyed by millions.
Q3: What is the best-selling Popsicle flavor?
A3: Cherry popsicles tend to steal the show, but today, we’re firmly on #TeamBlueberryPopsicle!
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