National Pumpkin Seed Day

National Pumpkin Seed Day, celebrated on the first Wednesday of October, was created to highlight the nutritional benefits and versatility of pumpkin seeds. The day aims to bring attention to this often-overlooked part of the pumpkin, emphasizing that pumpkin seeds are not just a tasty snack but also packed with health benefits, including being a good source of protein, healthy fats, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.

The day encourages people to explore different ways to use pumpkin seeds, whether in cooking, baking, or as a healthy snack. It also aligns with the broader theme of celebrating the fall season, where pumpkins are a central element. Essentially, the day was created to make more people aware of how beneficial and enjoyable pumpkin seeds can be, rather than discarding them when carving pumpkins.

The History of National Pumpkin Seed Day

National Pumpkin Seed Day was created by SuperSeedz, a company known for producing flavored pumpkin seeds. SuperSeedz, founded by Kathie Pelliccio, started this day in 2016 to raise awareness about the nutritional value and versatility of pumpkin seeds. The day was intended to promote healthy eating habits and encourage people to incorporate pumpkin seeds into their diets in various creative ways.

When Is National Pumpkin Seed Day?

National Pumpkin Seed Day is celebrated on the first Wednesday of October each year. Below is a table listing the dates for National Pumpkin Seed Day up to the year 2030. This day highlights the nutritional benefits and versatility of pumpkin seeds, encouraging people to enjoy them as a healthy and tasty snack.

Fun Facts About Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds may be small, but they’re packed with big benefits! To add a sprinkle of fun to your pumpkin seed adventures, here’s a look at when to celebrate National Pumpkin Seed Day over the next few years, along with some fascinating facts that make these seeds even more special! Don’t forget to spread the word and share your pumpkin seed love online using the hashtag #NationalPumpkinSeedDay.

• Did you know pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium, which supports heart health? Magnesium is essential for over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including maintaining normal nerve and muscle function.

• One ounce of pumpkin seeds has almost 7 grams of protein—perfect for a snack! This makes them a great option for vegetarians and vegans looking to increase their protein intake.

• Pumpkin seeds are also known as “pepitas” in Spanish. The word “pepita” means “little seed of squash,” and they are commonly used in Mexican cuisine.

• Roasted pumpkin seeds were enjoyed by Native Americans for centuries. They recognized the nutritional value and often used the seeds in traditional medicine as well.

• Pumpkin seeds contain tryptophan, which can help improve sleep quality. Tryptophan is an amino acid that your body converts into serotonin and melatonin, hormones that regulate sleep.

• They are a good source of zinc, important for a healthy immune system. Zinc plays a crucial role in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.

• Pumpkin seeds are packed with antioxidants, which can reduce inflammation. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, promoting overall health.

Before You Go:

We have many more national days lists for you to explore.

• Food-related national days: complete list of national food days, pasta & noodles days, vegan & vegetarian days, mushroom days, ice-cream days, pizza days, coffee days, chocolate days, wine days, alcohol & drinking days.
• Non-food national days: National Days Calendars 2024-2025 (check out the printable calendars in my Etsy shop), National Days for Teachers, and a wide array of special lists such as cat days, dog days, animal days, cleaning & organizing days, book days, music days, family & relationships days, national days for women, stationery days and even Harry Potter days.
• Country-specific national days: Australian national days, more coming soon.