International Tea Day: What It Is and Ways to Celebrate, Sip by Sip®
Across the globe, tea is more than a beverage — it is a tradition, a ritual, a moment of reflection. Whether it is steeped in ceremony or shared across a kitchen table, tea unites cultures, nurtures the spirit and honors the Earth. In that spirit, International Tea Day stands as a global celebration of this cherished leaf and the people who grow, craft and sip it.
But what is International Tea Day, exactly? When is International Tea Day, and why does it matter? As Citizens of The Republic of Tea, we invite you to take a mindful moment to learn, reflect and celebrate. Here’s everything you need to know about this special day — plus thoughtful ways to honor it, Sip by Sip®.
What is International Tea Day?
International Tea Day is a global observance dedicated to recognizing the deep cultural, economic and agricultural importance of tea. Officially designated by the United Nations General Assembly, the day brings attention to the work of tea growers, particularly in developing countries, and celebrates tea's role in promoting sustainable development, women’s empowerment and poverty reduction.
Though informal observances have taken place since 2005, the United Nations officially adopted the annual date for International Tea Day in 2019.
So, when is International Tea Day? Mark your calendar: May 21 is the day we join fellow tea lovers around the world in acknowledging the history, labor, and joy steeped in every cup.
Why We Celebrate
At The Republic of Tea, every tea leaf has a story. We partner with growers across the globe — India, China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Kenya and beyond — who cultivate their crops with skill, care, and often generations of knowledge. International Tea Day is a moment to celebrate these artisans of agriculture and to bring awareness to their essential contributions.
It is also a day to reflect on the sustainability of tea production, responsible sourcing, fair labor practices and our collective role as mindful stewards of the planet.
How to Celebrate International Tea Day
If you’re wondering how to celebrate International Tea Day, the answer lies in both action and appreciation. Here are several meaningful, elegant ways to honor the day in true Citizen fashion:
1. Sip a Tea from a New Origin
Expand your tea horizons with a blend from a region you’ve never tried. From the floral nuances of Chinese jasmine to the grassy elegance of Japanese sencha or the robust character of Kenyan black tea, each origin tells a unique story.
Suggested Sip: Explore our Sencha Kyoto Full-Leaf Tea or Republic Darjeeling Full-Leaf Tea for a true taste of place.
2. Host a Mindful Tea Tasting
Invite a few friends to your table and host a tea tasting. Prepare several varieties, note the differences in aroma, body and flavor and discuss the unique origins and cultural histories of each blend.
Create a quiet, intentional space — perhaps with calming music and candlelight — sip slowly and savor.
3. Steep with Purpose: Choose Sustainable
Opt for teas that are Regenerative Organic Certified®, or packaged with eco-friendly materials. The Republic of Tea’s signature unbleached tea bags are free of unnecessary strings, tags and staples. Our tea tins are recyclable and reusable, designed for refilling and reducing waste.
4. Share Tea, Share Gratitude
Gift a tin of your favorite tea to a friend, family member, or neighbor. Add a handwritten note about why you love tea. It’s a beautiful way to spread warmth and appreciation.
5. Learn the History of Tea
Use the day to deepen your understanding of tea’s ancient origins, from the Buddhist monks of China to the ceremonial traditions of Japan and the colonial trade routes that shaped global economies.
Our blog’s many guides—including our How to Host a Japanese Tea Ceremony and Exploring China’s Tea Regions: Sourcing Our Jasmine Pearls — offer rich storytelling for your reading pleasure.
6. Support Tea-Growing Communities
Consider donating to organizations that support tea farmers, provide education or focus on sustainable agriculture. Every sip can be an act of support and solidarity.
Sip by Sip®, A Celebration That Endures
International Tea Day is not only about honoring tea — it is about honoring the people and practices that make it possible. It is a day steeped in gratitude, sustainability and global connection.
So, on May 21, we invite you to raise your cup in celebration. However, you choose to observe — whether by exploring a new origin, gifting tea to another or simply pausing for a quiet moment of reflection — know that you are part of something far greater than a cup of tea.
You are part of a movement. A tradition. A revolution. And it continues, sip by sip.
