National Cocoa Day – December 13

Overview

National Cocoa Day is celebrated annually on December 13th, honoring the delicious and comforting beverage loved by families worldwide. Cocoa has a rich history dating back thousands of years to ancient Aztec and Mayan civilizations, who valued cacao beans as a precious commodity. Today, hot cocoa is a beloved winter tradition that brings warmth, comfort, and joy to cold winter days. This celebration recognizes the simple pleasure of enjoying a warm cup of cocoa while spending quality time with loved ones.

Why It Matters for Families

National Cocoa Day is a wonderful opportunity to slow down, warm up, and enjoy cozy family moments together. Whether it’s a simple mug of hot cocoa or an elaborate creation with marshmallows and whipped cream, this celebration encourages families to embrace winter traditions, practice gratitude, and create lasting memories during the holiday season. Cocoa also provides a perfect excuse to get outdoors and enjoy winter play!

Playground Connection

Visit a playground and bring hot cocoa in a thermos for a warm winter treat! Look for playgrounds with:

• Picnic areas or benches for warm drink breaks
• Covered pavilions or shelters for cozy gathering spaces
• Seating areas with views of winter landscapes
• Family-friendly gathering spots
• Nearby restroom facilities

After an energetic playground session in the cold, nothing beats warming up with a hot cup of cocoa while watching the kids continue to play. Many families use cocoa breaks as a special tradition during winter playground visits, creating cozy moments between active play.

Activities for Kids

• Cocoa Break Picnic: Pack thermoses of hot cocoa and enjoy warm drinks at the playground
• Marshmallow Toss Game: Toss marshmallows into cups or targets on the playground
• Winter Scavenger Hunt: Search for winter items while sipping cocoa between activities
• Cocoa Decorating Station: Bring toppings (marshmallows, whipped cream, chocolate chips) to customize drinks
• Warm-Up Races: Run around the playground to warm up, then enjoy cocoa together

Educational Tie-In

Use playground time to discuss:

• The history of cocoa and cacao beans from around the world
• How chocolate and cocoa are made from cacao pods
• The countries that grow and produce cocoa
• Nutrition and healthy treat choices
• Winter traditions and seasonal celebrations across different cultures

Social Media Ideas

• Share cozy photos of families enjoying cocoa at the playground
• Post steaming mug close-ups with playground backgrounds
• Create carousel posts with cocoa recipe ideas
• Share winter playground + cocoa tradition stories
• Use hashtags: #NationalCocoaDay #CozyPlayground #HotCocoa #WinterFun #PlaygroundTraditions

Warm Up at the Playground

Search PlaygroundFind.com for playgrounds with picnic areas and shelters near you. Pack your favorite hot cocoa, bundle up, and enjoy this cozy winter celebration with family at the playground!

Keywords: National Cocoa Day, hot cocoa, December 13, winter activities, playground picnic, family traditions, cozy moments, winter beverages, outdoor play, holiday fun