In the United States and Canada, National Coffee Day is celebrated on September 29 each year. It is a day to enjoy coffee and recognise the people who grow, roast and serve it, and many cafes mark the occasion with free or discounted drinks.
When is National Coffee Day?
National Coffee Day falls on September 29 in the United States and Canada. It sits just days before International Coffee Day, a separate global observance held on October 1, so coffee lovers effectively get a one-two celebration close together.
What is the difference between National and International Coffee Day?
National Coffee Day on September 29 is primarily a North American event. International Coffee Day on October 1 is a worldwide observance that was formally launched by the International Coffee Organization in 2015 to promote and celebrate coffee across producing and consuming countries alike.
| Observance | Date | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| National Coffee Day | September 29 | United States and Canada |
| International Coffee Day | October 1 | Worldwide |
Where did National Coffee Day come from?
The exact origin of the September 29 date is not well documented. The observance grew organically rather than being founded by a single organisation, and it has been recognised in the United States since at least the mid-2000s. Various origin stories circulate, including claims tying the date to early coffee shipments, but these are not firmly established, so the day is best described as one whose precise beginnings are unclear.
How do people celebrate?
The most visible feature is promotions. Coffee chains and independent cafes often give away free cups or offer discounts to mark the day. Beyond the deals, people use the occasion to try new brews, share their favourite roasts and, increasingly, to think about the coffee supply chain, including the farmers who grow the beans and the role of fair trade.
Why coffee gets its own day
Coffee is one of the world’s most popular beverages and supports the livelihoods of millions of growers. A dedicated day is both a light-hearted excuse to enjoy a favourite drink and, particularly for the international observance, a way to draw attention to the people and economies behind every cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Coffee Day?
In the United States and Canada it is celebrated on September 29 each year.
Is National Coffee Day the same as International Coffee Day?
No; International Coffee Day is a separate global event held on October 1.
Who started National Coffee Day?
The exact origin of the U.S. date is unclear; it has been recognised since at least the mid-2000s with no single official founder.
How do people celebrate National Coffee Day?
Many cafes offer free or discounted coffee, and people share their favourite brews and coffee traditions.
When is International Coffee Day?
International Coffee Day is held on October 1, launched by the International Coffee Organization in 2015.