Coffee is as integral a part of American culture. But if it weren’t for the Boston Tea Party of 1773, Americans may never have adopted coffee as their national morning beverage of choice. When the colonies revolted against King George III’s reduction of the tea tax, this sparked a mass switch from tea-drinking to coffee-drinking. More than two centuries later, America is collectively buzzing from its massive coffee intake. On Sept. 29, we fill our cups with joe and raise a toast to America’s favorite caffeine fix for National Coffee Day.
WHEN IS NATIONAL COFFEE DAY 2018?
National Coffee Day falls on September 29th every year, which makes it easy to remember!
NATIONAL COFFEE DAY ACTIVITIES
1. Grab a coffee at one of America's many cafes
Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, Krispy Kreme, Peet's, McCafe, Caribou Coffee—those are just a smattering of the countless cafes offering a steaming cup of joe almost anywhere in the USA. Many cafes even offer free coffee on National Coffee Day!
2. Experiment with a new brewing method
If you're a Starbucks addict, try something new and creative. There are many fun ways to brew your own coffee, including French press (just don't push down too hard—you might fall victim to a coffee explosion!), a Chemex brewer, a Turkish coffee pot, and even cold brew drip makers.
3. Surprise someone with a cup of joe
Pick up a cup of coffee for a co-worker, friend, family member, schoolmate, or even the security guard you pass on the street every day. Don't forget to wish them a happy National Coffee Day during the hand-off!
WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL COFFEE DAY
A. It's a ritual that adds structure to our day
While the majority of coffee drinkers emphasize the energy a hot cup of joe gives them, most coffee fanatics will agree that it's really all about the morning ritual. There's something calming and centering about the process of pouring the bean grounds into the filter, switching on the coffee pot, and smelling the aroma of a good French roast in the wee hours of the day.
B. You can find coffee anytime, anywhere
Americans can get their coffee fix at any time of the day, in almost any city in the country.
C. Coffee is good for your brain
Coffee isn't just a beverage that perks us up. It actually helps our brains produce dopamine and adrenaline, thereby improving our capacity to remember things. Studies show that regular coffee consumption can reduce the likelihood of developing dementia by as much as 65%!
