International Coffee Day is observed on October 1 to celebrate and promote coffee as a beverage, raise awareness about coffee growers’ challenges, and advocate for fair trade coffee.
Coffee lovers celebrate International Coffee Day on October 1, and many countries observe it on different dates (Photo credit: depositphotos)
New Delhi: Coffee, anyone? Oh yes! That’s what coffee lovers answer, and October 1 is a special day for them. On October 1, every year, International Coffee Day is observed. The day is not just a reminder for one to have a sip of coffee but also a day to know the importance of coffee more than just a beverage.
Coffee beans have been used for over 600 years around the world. They can be used to make drinks, candies, and even medicine. Some ancient civilisations even used coffee as currency, underscoring its historical significance. Whether you drink it to feel energised, warm, refreshed, awake, or to catch up with loved ones, coffee has been a part of human life for a long time.
On the occasion of World Coffee Day or International Coffee Day, let us look back at the day’s history and the theme for this year.
International Coffee Day 2024: When and why was the day started?
International Coffee Day, celebrated on October 1, is not just a day to enjoy a cup of coffee. Established by the International Coffee Organization in March 2014, this day is a global initiative to raise awareness about fair trade coffee and support the welfare of coffee growers. Businesses often participate by offering free or discounted cups of coffee, encouraging everyone to join in and support this noble cause.
While the exact origin of International Coffee Day is uncertain, many countries also have national coffee days at different times throughout the year.
The event was first promoted in Japan in 1983 and has since been celebrated in various countries, including the United States, China, Taiwan and Nepal.
What is the importance of International Coffee Day?
Spread the Word: Coffee production faces challenges like climate change, low wages, and farming practices that harm the environment. This day brings attention to the difficulties of coffee farmers and encourages buying coffee sourced ethically and traded fairly.
Encourage Sustainability: As the demand for coffee keeps growing, sustainability is very important. International Coffee Day urges people and businesses to choose coffee grown responsibly and made with as little environmental impact as possible.
Celebrate Coffee Culture: Coffee comes in many forms, from espresso to cappuccino, each reflecting the diverse cultures of the people who make and enjoy it. This day brings together coffee lovers worldwide to share their love for this drink and its role in their daily lives.
Support Local Economies: Coffee production supports the livelihoods of millions of people worldwide. On this day, people are reminded to appreciate the hard work of coffee farmers and to coffee farmers’ hard work and support local and international coffee economies.
International Coffee Day 2024: What is the theme for this year?
The theme for International Coffee Day (ICD) in 2024 is “Collaboration.” The International Coffee Organization (ICO) selected this theme because the coffee year commences on October 1, and 2025 has been designated the United Nations General Assembly’s International Year of Cooperatives.
The theme highlights the significance of collaboration within the coffee sector and its potential to drive collective action and sustainable development. The campaign’s slogan is “Coffee: your daily ritual, our shared journey”.
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