National Iced Tea Day

Celebrate National Iced Tea Day!

Hey there, cool kids! Did you know that June 10th is National Iced Tea Day? It’s a special day to celebrate one of the most refreshing and beloved drinks, especially on a hot summer day. Let’s dive into the world of iced tea and discover why it’s so awesome!

The Story of Iced Tea

Iced tea has a pretty cool history. It all started in the United States back in the 19th century. People enjoyed drinking hot tea, but when the weather got warm, they needed something more refreshing. Enter iced tea! By the early 1900s, it became super popular, especially after being showcased at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis.

What is Iced Tea?

Iced tea is simply tea that is brewed and then cooled down with ice. You can make it from black tea, green tea, or even herbal tea. Sometimes people add a bit of sugar or lemon to give it extra flavor. There are also different ways to prepare it, like sun tea, where you let the tea steep in the sun, or cold brew, where you steep the tea in cold water for a long time.

Fun Facts About Iced Tea

1. Tea Bags: Did you know that tea bags were invented by accident? In the early 1900s, a tea merchant sent samples in small silk bags, and people thought they were supposed to dip the bags directly into hot water. Voila, tea bags were born!
2. Sweet Tea: In the southern United States, sweet tea is a big deal. It’s made by adding a lot of sugar while the tea is still hot, then chilling it. It’s so sweet that some people call it “liquid candy.”
3. Health Benefits: Tea is full of antioxidants, which are good for your health. Drinking iced tea can help you stay hydrated, and if you choose unsweetened tea, it’s a low-calorie drink too!

How to Make Your Own Iced Tea

Making iced tea at home is super easy and fun. Here’s a simple recipe you can try:

Ingredients:

• 4 tea bags (black or green tea)
• 4 cups of boiling water
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slices (optional)
• Sugar or honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Put the tea bags in a heatproof pitcher.
2. Pour the boiling water over the tea bags.
3. Let the tea steep for about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove the tea bags and let the tea cool to room temperature.
5. Fill glasses with ice cubes.
6. Pour the tea over the ice and add lemon slices if you like.
7. Sweeten with sugar or honey if desired. Stir well and enjoy!

Celebrate National Iced Tea Day

Now that you know all about iced tea, it’s time to celebrate! Here are some fun ideas:

• Tea Party: Host an iced tea party with your friends and family. You can make different flavors and have a taste test.
• Tea Art: Get creative and draw or paint pictures of iced tea. Maybe design your own cool tea label!
• Learn More: Read a book or watch a documentary about the history of tea and how it’s grown and harvested.

So, this June 10th, grab a glass of iced tea, sit back, and enjoy the cool, refreshing taste. Happy National Iced Tea Day!

Critical Thinking Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why did iced tea become popular in the United States?
   • A) It was introduced by British settlers
   • B) People wanted a refreshing drink during hot weather
   • C) It was invented by accident
   • D) It was cheaper than hot tea
2. Which of the following methods is NOT mentioned as a way to prepare iced tea?
   • A) Sun tea
   • B) Cold brew
   • C) Boiling tea
   • D) Hot brew
3. What is the main ingredient in sweet tea that differentiates it from regular iced tea?
   • A) Lemon
   • B) Sugar
   • C) Honey
   • D) Mint
4. Why might someone choose unsweetened iced tea over sweetened iced tea?
   • A) It has more antioxidants
   • B) It is healthier and has fewer calories
   • C) It tastes better
   • D) It is cheaper to make
5. What accidental invention led to the creation of tea bags?
   • A) People mistakenly thought the silk bags were for steeping tea
   • B) A merchant dropped tea leaves into hot water
   • C) Tea was left out in the sun for too long
   • D) A machine malfunctioned and produced small bags
6. Which of the following is a health benefit of drinking iced tea?
   • A) It helps you lose weight
   • B) It keeps you hydrated
   • C) It provides a lot of energy
   • D) It cures colds
7. What activity is suggested to celebrate National Iced Tea Day that involves creativity?
   • A) Hosting a tea party
   • B) Making different flavors of iced tea
   • C) Drawing or painting pictures of iced tea
   • D) Reading about the history of tea
8. Which statement best explains the importance of National Iced Tea Day?
   • A) It promotes the sales of tea bags
   • B) It celebrates a popular and refreshing drink
   • C) It honors the inventors of iced tea
   • D) It encourages people to drink more beverages

Answer Key

1. B) People wanted a refreshing drink during hot weather
2. C) Boiling tea
3. B) Sugar
4. B) It is healthier and has fewer calories
5. A) People mistakenly thought the silk bags were for steeping tea
6. B) It keeps you hydrated
7. C) Drawing or painting pictures of iced tea
8. B) It celebrates a popular and refreshing drink