National Mushroom Hunting Day
May 17, Saturday
Why is it important?
Mushroom hunting is not only an enjoyable hobby but also a way to:
- Enjoy time outdoors
- Explore nature and ecosystems
- Collect edible mushrooms such as morels, chanterelles, boletes, and others
- Support sustainable use of natural resources
How is the holiday celebrated?
On this day, mushroom enthusiasts:
- Go to forests and nature parks to hunt for mushrooms
- Exchange experiences and knowledge about mushrooms
- Share photos of their finds on social media with the hashtag #NationalMushroomHuntingDay
- Participate in mushroom hunting events organized by local communities or environmental organizations
- Cook dishes from the mushrooms they collected, such as soups, stews, or mushroom pasta
Tips for beginner mushroom hunters
- Use reliable mushroom guides or mobile apps for identification
- Always check mushrooms with an experienced mycologist before consuming
- Only collect mushrooms from ecologically clean areas, away from roads and polluted zones
- Follow local laws and regulations regarding mushroom foraging
Interesting facts about mushrooms
- Mushrooms belong to a separate kingdom — the fungi kingdom, and are closer to animals than plants
- Some mushrooms, like morels, are considered delicacies and have high culinary value
- Mushrooms play an important role in ecosystems by decomposing organic matter and forming soil