Every year on April 30th, bubble tea enthusiasts around the world raise a cup (with a wide straw!) to celebrate National Bubble Tea Day, often affectionately known as Boba Day. It's a day dedicated to enjoying the unique and delightful beverage that has captured hearts globally.
The Origin Story: A U.S. Celebration is Born
While bubble tea itself originated in Taiwan in the 1980s, the official designation of April 30th as National Bubble Tea Day has its roots in the United States. The holiday was founded in 2018 by Kung Fu Tea, a prominent American bubble tea chain headquartered in Queens, New York.
Kung Fu Tea chose April 30th specifically because it marks the anniversary of their company's founding in 2010 (their first U.S. store opened on April 30, 2010). They successfully registered the date on national day calendars, turning their corporate milestone into an annual celebration for all boba lovers.
So, although the drink is Taiwanese, the holiday's date is an American invention, highlighting the journey of bubble tea culture across the globe. What started as a marketing initiative has blossomed into a widely recognized event celebrated by shops and fans internationally.
How Boba Day is Celebrated
Boba Day celebrations are typically vibrant, fun, and centered around enjoying the drink itself. There aren't strict traditions, but common activities include:
- Special Promotions: Bubble tea shops (both large chains and local cafes) roll out deals like Buy-One-Get-One (BOGO) offers, free toppings (like tapioca pearls!), discounted drinks, or limited-edition flavors.
- Giveaways & Collectibles: Some stores offer branded merchandise like pins, stickers, or keychains, or run social media contests with prizes like free boba for a year.
- Community Events: In some areas, you might find group "boba runs," tasting parties, or even DIY bubble tea workshops.
- Social Media Buzz: Fans share photos of their drinks using hashtags like
#NationalBubbleTeaDayand#BobaDay, tagging their favorite spots.
It's a day to indulge in your favorite boba, try something new, and share the joy with friends!
Boba Day 2025: Notable Events & Promotions
April 30, 2025, saw numerous celebrations across the U.S. Here's a snapshot of some key promotions offered by major chains and local shops:
| Store/Chain | Location | 2025 Boba Day Promotion |
|---|---|---|
| Kung Fu Tea | Nationwide (U.S.) | Buy 1, Get 1 Free (Later) via app reward (15th Anniversary Special). |
| Gong Cha | Participating U.S. locations | Free exclusive Boba Day pin & sticker with purchase (while supplies lasted). |
| R&B Tea | Select locations (e.g., Houston, TX) | Buy 3, Get 1 Free on all bubble tea drinks. |
| The Teahouse Tapioca & Tea | Houston, TX | Free tapioca pearls added to any drink all day. |
| Formosa Bubble Teahouse | Cypress, TX | Free "black boba" toppings in every drink. |
| Other Chains & Locals | Various (e.g., CoCo, NYC, LA, SF) | Assorted specials: Free medium milk tea (CoCo app users), BOGO 50% off, free toppings, etc. |
Keep an eye out each April 30th for deals at your favorite local boba spot!
