NATIONAL BRANDIED FRUIT DAY
On October 20th each year, we celebrate the delicious food holiday known as National Brandied Fruit Day!
Brandied fruit first became popular around the Victorian era. During this time, it was discovered by adding brandy to fruit, it was easiest way to make it last longer. Incidentally, this process was also a great way to harvest the taste of fruit, while creating a delicious dessert for adults.
Brandied fruit is created by soaking sweet fresh fruit in brandy, sugar, and spices. Often sitting for 30 days after preparation, this delicious treat is best used as a topping on desserts, such as pies or cakes. Interestingly, brandied fruit is used as a starter for Friendship Cake. Similar to the concept of a starter for sourdough bread, Friendship Cake takes time to prepare. However, once you’ve completed the process, you’re sure to enjoy one of the most delicious treats ever!
We’ve added a Brandied Fruit Recipe to our National Day Calendar® Recipe Collection. You may not know it, but it’s super easy to make. So easy you don’t need canning skills to make your first batch of Brandied Fruit on your own!
HOW TO OBSERVE #BrandiedFruitDay
The best way to celebrate #BrandiedFruitDay is to enjoy some with family friends. Use #BrandiedFruitDay to share on social media and show the world how you #CelebrateEveryDay!
BRANDIED FRUIT DAY HISTORY
The history of brandied fruit is uncertain. Because of that, we have been unable to find the creator of this delicious food holiday.
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October 20th History
1811
The steamboat named New Orleans is launched. It’s the first steamboat to travel the Mississippi River.
1917
In January, Paul joined thousands of other women marching for women’s right to vote. Charged and convicted of obstructing traffic, Alice Paul began a seven-month jail sentence on October 20. She continued her protest for women’s suffrage by going on a hunger strike.
1924
The Kansas City Monarchs triumphed over the Hilldale Athletic Club in the first Negro League World Series. Nearly 50 thousand fans attended the nine-game-series, watching future Hall-of-Famers such as Judy Johnson and Bullet Rogan.
1927
Ford produces the first Model A. The new model came in four colors and replaced the Model T.
1955
Harry Belafonte records a popular Caribbean son for his Calypso album. Irving Burgie and William Attaway wrote the lyrics to the “Banana Boat Song” for Belafonte’s Calypso album.
1984
The Monterey Bay Aquarium in California opens. At the time, it was the largest aquarium in the United States. Today, the aquarium hosts numerous exhibits and teaches visitors about the importance of conservation.
1987
Geffen records release its first album. Donna Summer’s The Wanderer hit number 13 on the Billboard 200 and was a certified gold hit.
1992
Major League Baseball plays the first World Series game outside the United States. The Toronto Blue Jays beat Atlanta 3-2.
October 20th Birthdays
Bela Lugosi – 1882
A native of Hungary, Lugosi one of the best-remembered actors to ever play Count Dracula in film.
Eniola McMillan – 1904
The civil rights activist was the first woman president of the (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) NAACP.
Joyce Brothers – 1927
Often called America’s favorite shrink, the psychologist hosted a television talk show and wrote a syndicated advice column.
Mickey Mantle – 1931
The Hall of Famer played 18 seasons with the New York Yankees. He played outfield but at the plate, he was a savvy switch hitter.
Tom Petty – 1950
The award-winning singer-songwriter led Heartbreaks and join the Traveling Wilburys before launching into a solo career.
Julie Payette – 1963
The former astronaut was elected to the office of Governor General of Canada in 2017.
Snoop Dogg – 1971
Born Calvin Broadus, the talented rapper and actor has won numerous awards for his music. However, to date, he has not won a Grammy despite being nominated 16 times.
