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Apple Gifting Day

January 1, 2026 All day

apple gifting day

Apple Gifting Day

Apple Gifting Day, celebrated on January 1st each year, is a tradition that dates back to ancient times. It is a day to give apples to friends, family, and loved ones as a symbol of good health, prosperity, and wisdom.

History of Apple Gifting Day

The tradition of giving apples as gifts on New Year’s Day dates back to ancient Rome and Greece. In these cultures, apples were associated with fertility, abundance, and longevity. They were also seen as a symbol of love and friendship.

In the Middle Ages, the tradition of giving apples as gifts continued to grow in popularity. Apples were often given to teachers, doctors, and other important figures as a way of showing gratitude and appreciation.

In the 19th century, the tradition of giving apples as gifts on New Year’s Day became even more popular in the United States. This was due in part to the growing popularity of the apple as a symbol of American values, such as hard work and perseverance.

Today, Apple Gifting Day is still celebrated by many people around the world. It is a reminder of the importance of good health, prosperity, and wisdom.

What Countries Celebrate Apple Gifting Day?

Apple Gifting Day, celebrated on January 1st each year, is a tradition observed in many cultures worldwide. Although not officially recognized as a national holiday in most countries, the practice of exchanging apples as a symbol of good fortune, health, and prosperity remains prevalent in various regions.

Here are some countries where Apple Gifting Day is widely celebrated:

  1. Germany: In Germany, Apple Gifting Day is known as “Äpfeltag” or “Apfelnacht,” which translates to “Apple Day” or “Apple Night.” It is a tradition to give apples to friends, family, and acquaintances as a token of good wishes for the new year.
  2. France: In France, Apple Gifting Day is associated with the Feast of the Epiphany, held on January 6th. During this celebration, the traditional “gâteau des rois” or “king cake” often contains a hidden apple representing good health and prosperity for the person who finds it.
  3. Greece: In Greece, apples hold significant symbolic value, especially during the New Year’s festivities. Apples are exchanged as tokens of good luck and prosperity, and their spherical shape represents eternity and wholeness.
  4. Italy: In Italy, apples are often given as gifts on New Year’s Day to symbolize love, abundance, and knowledge. The tradition of “mele augurali” involves exchanging apples with personal messages of hope and well wishes for the year ahead.
  5. Spain: In Spain, Apple Gifting Day is particularly prominent in the Basque region, where the tradition of “sagardoetxea” involves exchanging apples and drinking local cider during the New Year’s celebrations.
  6. United Kingdom: While Apple Gifting Day is not an official holiday in the UK, the tradition of exchanging apples on New Year’s Day persists in some regions. Apples are sometimes given as gifts to children, representing good health and academic success.
  7. United States: In the United States, Apple Gifting Day is less widely observed than in some other countries, but the tradition of giving apples as gifts on New Year’s Day still exists in some families and communities.

These are just a few examples of countries where Apple Gifting Day is celebrated. The tradition reflects the universal symbolism of apples as a representation of good fortune, health, and prosperity, making it a meaningful way to start the new year.

How To Celebrate Apple Gifting Day

Apple Gifting Day, celebrated on January 1st each year, is a tradition observed in many cultures worldwide, symbolising good fortune, health, and prosperity. While it’s not an official holiday in most countries, people still find ways to incorporate this meaningful custom into their New Year’s celebrations. Here are some ideas on how to celebrate Apple Gifting Day:

  1. Exchange Apples with Loved Ones: The heart of Apple Gifting Day lies in sharing this symbolic fruit with friends, family, and acquaintances. You can hand out apples, personalise them with handwritten messages, or arrange them in decorative baskets. You can also gift Apple-related products.
  2. Indulge in Apple-Inspired Treats: Apples are incredibly versatile in the culinary world. Bake an apple pie, crumble, or cake, or whip up a batch of apple-cinnamon muffins or apple cider. You can also create savoury dishes using apples, such as roasted pork with apples or a hearty apple and sausage stew.
  3. Visit a Local Orchard or Farmers Market: Immerse yourself in the spirit of Apple Gifting Day by visiting a local orchard or farmers market. Pick your own apples, browse through an assortment of apple products, and learn about different apple varieties and their unique flavours.
  4. Explore Apple-Related Cultural Traditions: Delve into the cultural significance of apples and how they are incorporated into New Year’s traditions around the world. Learn about the symbolism of apples in various cultures and how they are used to express good wishes and prosperity.
  5. Share Apple-Inspired Crafts or Gifts: Create handmade apple-themed gifts or crafts to spread the joy of Apple Gifting Day. You can make apple-shaped ornaments, bake apple-scented candles, or paint apple still lives.
  6. Support Local Apple Producers: Make a conscious effort to support local apple growers and producers. Purchase apples from nearby orchards or farmers markets, and encourage others to do the same.

Apple Gifting Day is a simple yet powerful way to start the new year with positive intentions and a sense of community. By sharing apples and expressing good wishes, we can foster connections, celebrate the abundance of nature, and embrace the symbolism of this versatile fruit.

Apple day is also a great event to start the new year healthy. Apples are great for your health and it makes sense to celebrate it on January 1st each year.

Apple Gifting Day Products

Apple Gifting Day is the perfect opportunity to gift someone an apple or apple-related product. It’s also the perfect excuse to get yourself something apple-related and treat yourself. Take a look at some of the apple-related products below for inspiration.

Due Vittorie Aged Apple Cider Vinegar

This delicious Due Vittorie Apple Cider Vinegar is produced in Modena from Italian apples only. It is aged for one year in barriques. It is both a healthy and particularly tasty. Apple cider vinegar is perfect for making bread as well, it’s versatile, bursting with flavour and affordable; perfect for Apple Gifting Day! Get yours here.

Apple Gifting Day Recipes

If you’re looking to make some exciting apple recipes on Apple Gifting Day, take a look at the versatile and fun recipes below.

Disclaimer: Some products in this post have been gifted for inclusion. All opions are honest and factual.