National Lemonade Day

History & origins

National Lemonade Day is observed in the United States on August 20, but its exact origin as a named observance is unclear and appears to be informal rather than tied to a single official proclamation. The date is closely associated with Lemonade Day, a youth entrepreneurship program that encourages children to run lemonade stands and learn basic business skills. The modern observance is also reinforced by food brands, community groups, and local promotions that use August 20 to celebrate the drink.

Why it matters

National Lemonade Day connects a simple summer beverage to childhood memories, seasonal traditions, and family-friendly community events. It also spotlights lemonade stands as a low-cost way for kids to practice budgeting, sales, customer service, and entrepreneurship. For businesses, lemonade remains a major beverage category with broad consumer appeal during hot weather.

How to celebrate

Make homemade lemonade. Try flavored lemonade varieties. Set up a lemonade stand. Support kids' lemonade stands. Share lemonade recipes online.

Facts

• Americans drink billions of gallons of lemonade annually
• Lemonade stands teach kids entrepreneurship
• Pink lemonade was created by accident in the 1800s
• Lemonade is the most popular summer beverage
• The lemonade industry generates hundreds of millions

Upcoming dates

• Thursday, August 20, 2026
• Friday, August 20, 2027
• Sunday, August 20, 2028
• Monday, August 20, 2029
• Tuesday, August 20, 2030