One of the quirkiest days you could think to recognize, National Ants On A Log Day is a real thing. On the second Tuesday of September every year, this day is recognized by many who enjoy a snack of raisins on celery with peanut butter holding it all in place – ants on a log. But just where did this odd idea originate? And how do people observe such a day? Let’s take a look.

What Is Ants On A Log Day?

Well, the name of the snack was coined in the 1950s. It was recommended as a healthy snack by the McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This gives it some credence, and it is a better alternative than many of the snacks available nowadays. But just how healthy is it?

Let’s start with the raisin. High in vitamin C, they are an excellent source of potassium as well as zinc and selenium. So, all good things so far, especially since this is all good news for blood pressure.

Peanut butter can be healthy; it is high in protein and also boasts some healthy fats. Still, there is something to be said for eating it in moderation since some peanut butter contains sugars and oils. There are healthy options out there; the more natural, the better.

Then there is celery. Packed full of vitamins, celery provides plenty of A, K, and C. It is low in sodium and calories, making it a great alternative to other snacks. For some, this will be excellent brain food. It comes around the time that children are returning to school after the summer holidays, so a healthy snack is always going to be useful.

It was in 2014 that the day was added to the National Day calendar after Duda Farm Fresh Foods and Peanut Butter & Co. submitted it for consideration.

How To Observe Ants On A Log Day

The easiest way to celebrate is to make some ants on a log for yourself. Okay, maybe the adults in the house aren’t as keen, but prepare some for the kids, take a snap, and post it on social media. Why not see what everyone else is doing and see how far the day reaches?

If you are allergic, or just do not like peanut butter, it is possible to swap it for cream cheese, or another spread that sounds more appealing. As long as it looks like the result, then who cares? An alternative is also called Ants on Vacation, where it is the same snack – without the raisins! Want it without peanut butter? Then it’s just called Ants in the Pants.

It’s safe to say that this is not a national holiday we are talking about, but it is a fun way of acknowledging a healthy snack that looks fun and tastes good. With well over 1,000 National Days, this has to be up there with the most unique.