National Hot Tea Day is just around the corner. And, if you're a tea lover like us, you don't want to miss this holiday (even if Hot Tea Day is really every day for you!)
Celebrated on January 12th, National Hot Tea Day is simply a fun holiday in the U.S. to acknowledge love for this beverage, and indulge in a hot, steamy cup of tea. And, whether you've jumped on the Stanley Cup craze or you're using a 15-year old mug from your cupboard to keep your tea hot, there's no wrong way to enjoy this holiday. We're just here with some ideas to celebrate!
What's National Hot Tea Day?
Among other fun and random holidays in the States, National Hot Tea Day was created by The Tea Association of the USA to promote the consumption of tea for better health. Maybe this was due to the fact that although tea is the second most-consumed beverage in the world after water, in the U.S., it's consumption is much lower on average.
In fact, according to a study by Statista, in 2022, bottled water was the most consumed drink in the States at 25%, and tea was towards the bottom of the list — falling behind soft drinks, coffee, beer, and even milk — at roughly 5%. That being said, the Tea Association of the USA reports that as of 2021, Americans consumed almost 85 billion servings of tea. Of this, 84% of all tea in the U.S. consumed was black tea, 15% was green tea, and the small remaining amount was oolong, white and dark tea.
If you're one of the Americans that drinks (hot) tea on the reg, know that you're a true, dedicated tea drinker in a country that loves fizzy drinks much more!
Are There Health Benefits of Drinking Tea Hot?
One of the goals of National Hot Tea Day was to get Americans to consume more tea for their health. And, they aren't wrong. Tea comes in so many different types, each brew packed with its own unique benefits. These different types of tea — like green, black, or herbal — offer various health benefits, including improved digestion, stress relief, and boosting the immune system. Aside from the taste and significance it has in various cultures, the health benefits are one of the main reasons that tea is consumed in such high numbers worldwide.
But, for the sake of National Hot Tea Day, let's focus on, well, hot tea. Does drinking tea hot have any additional benefits versus drinking it cold?
The answer is yes, of course. Drinking tea hot can offer additional benefits compared to cold tea. Hot tea is known for its soothing effect, aiding in relaxation and stress reduction. It can also help with digestion while warming up your bones quickly — which, let's be real — when the temperature drops, there's nothing like holding a hot mug of tea. Additionally, the heat from the tea may also enhance the release of aromas and flavors, potentially increasing the enjoyment and sensory experience of drinking tea.
9 Ways to Celebrate National Hot Tea Day
Aside from just drinking a cup of hot tea on National Hot Tea Day (which is something most tea-lovers do once a day, anyway) here are some ways to get creative on this tea-appreciation holiday.
1. Try a Different Type of Tea or Blend
If you haven't done so in a while, then use National Hot Tea Day as an opportunity to try some new tea flavors or blends. Whether it's hitting up a local tea store, ordering a recommended flavor online, or putting together your own blend recipe, consider trying a few tea types that you haven't tried before — like dragon fruit or blackcurrant. This could also be trying new tea brands you've been meaning to check out!
2. Learn a New Tea Brewing Method
In addition to trying new teas, consider trying a new tea brewing method on National Hot Tea Day, too. This includes trying out tea tools that you haven't before. Experimenting with a new method of brewing tea could involve anything from using a special teapot, to incorporating a French press, a matcha whisk, or even a milk frother for a tasty matcha latte (more on this below!). Each method can bring out different qualities and flavors in your tea, and will give you more mastery in your tea game.
Try: Here's how to make soursop tea from tea leaves
3. Treat Yourself to Tea Merch
You can't always experiment with different brewing methods without new tea merch to practice with If you've been waiting to spoil yourself with a new addition to your tea-brewing collection, National Hot Tea Day could be a good excuse to do so!
4. Host a 'Hot' Tea Party
What better way to celebrate a holiday than with a party? Gather friends and family — even your coworkers if you need an engagement activity — for a tea tasting party. It can be as casual or as "extra" as you want. Make it an afternoon tea and throw in pastries, mini sandwiches, and scones with jam. Yum!
5. Visit a Local Tea Shop
Haven't gone out in a while? Support local businesses (and your own tea cupboard!) by visiting a nearby tea shop in your town. It's something different, and it could end up being a neighborhood favorite that you go back to again and again. These shops often have a wide selection of teas and knowledgeable staff who can guide you through your tea journey, as well as events.
6. Attend a Tea Ceremony or Workshop
If there's a tea ceremony or workshop happening in your area, this holiday could be a chance to learn even more about tea. These events are not only about drinking tea but also understanding its cultural significance. Or, maybe it's time to book a trip to some green tea fields or popular tea destinations?
7. Ask Someone Out on a Tea Date
Speaking of checking out local tea shops, National Hot Tea Day could be an opportunity to go on a tea date! Visit one of these shops with someone you've been meaning to spend some time with. It's a bit different than the typical coffee shop or restaurant, and can make for a cozy and chill time. You can also check out other tea date ideas, since it falls on a weekend!
8. Soak in a Hot Tea Bath
A hot cup of tea on National Hot Tea Day is great and all, but if you're feeling super chilly, try indulging in a hot tea bath (too). Yes, it's a thing. There are many benefits to taking — for example — a green tea bath. Though each tea bath may call for different ways to prepare it, generally it's pretty straightforward. Just add tea bags or loose tea leaves to your bath and you'll truly embrace this holiday to the fullest!
9. Relax With Tea and a Movie or Book
Self-love day, much? National Hot Tea Day is January 12th which means it falls on a Friday this year. It can be a depressing time in January when the holidays are over, it's so cold outside, and in some places, it gets dark very early. What's better than snuggling under a blanket with a hot cup of tea, a good book to read, or a movie to watch? So, we're not saying you should call in sick, but we're also not saying you shouldn't...
Celebrate National Hot Tea Day (Everyday)!
National Hot Tea Day is more than just an excuse to drink your favorite tea; it's a celebration of culture, history, and wellness. By participating in this day, you join a global community of tea lovers who appreciate the simplicity and complexity of this ancient beverage. So, boil some water, select your favorite tea, and raise a cup to the timeless tradition of tea drinking!