Food holidays often spark debate over their relevance. While some, like National Cheese Doodle Day on March 5, may seem redundant to those who enjoy these orange snacks regularly, others, such as National Glazed Doughnut Day on January 12, might feel similarly unnecessary.
However, some food holidays can seem downright puzzling. For example, National Rhubarb Pie Day on January 23 appears misplaced. In the northern hemisphere, obtaining fresh rhubarb in January is a challenge, as it typically requires costly overnight shipping of frozen rhubarb. A more fitting time for National Rhubarb Pie Day might be late May or June when rhubarb is in season. For those who grow their own rhubarb, the season is usually over by January, as the frozen stash is quickly depleted due to rhubarb’s popularity.
Despite the occasional awkward timing of these food celebrations, some dates hit the mark perfectly. This Friday, July 26, is National Coffee Milkshake Day—or, as it’s known in New England, National Coffee Frappe Day.
In my family, the terms “milkshake” and “frappe” have always been used interchangeably. My New England upbringing, combined with my father’s mid-Atlantic influences, led me to love both treats equally.
With the recent warm weather, ice-cream-based beverages are particularly inviting. Among them, coffee frappes hold a special place in my heart. They offer a cooling, satisfying experience, especially when the summer heat is relentless.
Coffee frappes stand out as my favorite. While I’m not a fan of plain coffee, blending it with sugar and dairy transforms it into a delightful treat. The invigorating caffeine combined with the creamy texture of dairy creates a uniquely enjoyable experience.
I limit myself to just one or two of these refreshing coffee drinks each summer. My mother once recounted a college diet where she exclusively consumed frappes for two weeks, resulting in significant weight loss—a testament to the frappe’s enduring appeal.