National Opal Apples Day

National Opal Apples Day is observed annually on December 9. This specific date celebrates the unique, bright yellow apple variety known for its impressive crunch and natural resistance to browning.

History of National Opal Apples Day

The holiday was established in 2022 by FirstFruits Farms, the exclusive grower of Opal apples in North America. They created the day to highlight the distinct qualities of this proprietary variety and to kick off the peak of its winter season. Unlike many other apple varieties that have been around for centuries, the Opal is a relatively recent addition to the fruit aisle. It was developed in 1999 at the Institute of Experimental Botany in Prague, Czech Republic, through a natural cross-breeding of Golden Delicious and Topaz apples.

After its creation in Europe, the variety was introduced to the United States market by Broetje Orchards (now FirstFruits Farms) in Washington State. It quickly gained a following for its ability to stay fresh-looking long after being sliced. The apple received verification from the Non-GMO Project, distinguishing it from genetically modified non-browning apples. The designation of a specific national day serves to educate consumers about these specific traits and the “yellow apple with a purpose” branding that accompanies the fruit.

Why is National Opal Apples Day important?

This day draws attention to an apple that solves a common culinary problem without artificial modification. Opal apples possess a natural resistance to oxidation, meaning they do not turn brown quickly after being cut. This makes them exceptionally practical for salads, lunchboxes, and cheese platters where aesthetic appeal is crucial. Their flavor profile is also notable; they combine the sugar of a Golden Delicious with the tartness of a Topaz, resulting in a balanced taste that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Beyond the fruit itself, the observance highlights the philanthropic mission attached to the brand. FirstFruits Farms uses the Opal apple to fund the “Youth Make a Difference” initiative, which provides grants to youth-led non-profit projects focused on food security and community service. Celebrating the day connects the act of buying healthy food with supporting community-driven agriculture and youth leadership. It emphasizes that modern agriculture can combine high-quality produce with social responsibility.

• The apple naturally resists browning for long periods.
• It is the first U.S. apple variety verified by the Non-GMO Project.
• The flavor balances high sugar content with a tangy finish.
• Sales often support youth-led community service grants.
• It offers a crispy texture often missing in other yellow varieties.

How to Observe National Opal Apples Day

The most direct way to observe the day is to purchase Opal apples and experience their unique texture firsthand. Since they do not brown, they are perfect for testing in recipes that usually require lemon juice to keep fruit looking fresh. You can slice them early in the morning for a packed lunch or arrange them on a charcuterie board hours before guests arrive. Their sturdy texture also holds up well in baking, making them a good candidate for pies or crisps.

Retailers often run promotions or feature displays of the bright yellow fruit on this date. You can participate by sharing photos of your snacks or recipes on social media to spread awareness about this specific variety. If you are involved in community service, you might research the “Youth Make a Difference” grant program to see if local youth organizations qualify for support. Simply eating the apple raw allows you to appreciate the specific “crunch” that distinguishes it from its softer parent, the Golden Delicious.

• Slice the apples for salads without adding lemon juice.
• Pack them in school lunches to test their non-browning trait.
• Bake a galette or tart using Opals for a sweet dessert.
• Check local grocery stores for special displays or discounts.
• Read about the Youth Make a Difference grant program.

National Opal Apples Day Dates