Coffee is more than just a morning beverage that awakens the senses. It is a deeply rooted culture, a story that extends from coffee farms in the highlands to modern cafes in the heart of cities. Every year, on October 1, the world celebrates International Coffee Day , an occasion to raise awareness of coffee's role in societies and economies, and to highlight its cultural and human value.
International Coffee Day History
The International Coffee Organization (ICO) first recognized International Coffee Day in 2015 in Milan, Italy, as an official occasion to highlight the millions of farmers behind every cup of coffee we taste. Since then, events have taken place around the world, from lectures and exhibitions to tasting festivals and new innovations.
Coffee from the Arabian Peninsula to the world
The story began in Yemen in the fifteenth century , where coffee spread from the port of Mocha to Mecca and Medina, then to Istanbul, and from there to Europe and the entire world. This is why we find the word "coffee" is of Arabic origin, which became "kahveh" in Turkey, "cafe" in Italy, and then "coffee" in English. This spread made coffee a symbol of cultural and civilizational communication between peoples.
The symbolism of coffee in societies
- In the Arabian Peninsula : Coffee is part of Arab generosity and authenticity.
- In Europe : Cafes were a meeting place for writers and thinkers.
- In Latin America : Coffee cultivation has become a mainstay of the economy.
Each society has crafted its own rituals around coffee, from small, ornate cups in the Gulf, to large glasses of latte and cappuccino in the West.
The impact of coffee on the global economy
Today, coffee is the second most traded commodity after oil. More than 25 million farmers worldwide cultivate and trade it. Countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, and, in recent years, Saudi Arabia and Yemen represent major players in the global coffee market.
Specialty coffee in the modern age
In recent years, the specialty coffee movement has emerged, emphasizing high quality, supply chain transparency, and farmer care. Coffee shops now display detailed information about the crop, farm, and brewing methods such as the V60, Chemex, and espresso , making the coffee experience richer than just drinking a beverage.
International Coffee Day: More than one occasion
International Coffee Day is not just a celebration, it is a call to:
- Support farmers : by purchasing sustainable and fair trade coffee.
- Promoting culture : spreading awareness of the history and impact of coffee.
- Experiment and innovate : Try new tools, innovative recipes, and combine coffee with art and books.
International Coffee Day is an occasion to renew our relationship with this magical beverage and reflect on its long journey from a small green bean to a cup that fills our hearts with warmth and inspiration. Every sip of coffee carries history, culture, and the labors of generations of farmers.