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National Ambrosia Day

Food · December 12

Ambrosia is a sweet, creamy fruit salad of oranges, pineapple, coconut and marshmallows, long a fixture of Southern potlucks and holiday tables.

National Ambrosia Day falls on Saturday, December 12, 2026. That is 46 days away.

Ambrosia is a fruit salad that leans toward dessert. The usual base is citrus, most often oranges, along with pineapple and shredded coconut. Many versions add mini marshmallows, maraschino cherries and pecans, then fold everything into whipped cream, sour cream or yogurt.

The name comes from Greek myth, where ambrosia was the food of the gods. The salad borrowed the title and has worn it ever since without much embarrassment.

Families tend to have strong opinions about the right recipe. Some keep it simple with only oranges, coconut and a little sugar, an older style that is bright and juicy. Others go creamy and pastel, closer to a cloud with fruit in it. Both show up at church suppers, potlucks and holiday dinners, especially across the South, usually in a glass bowl so the colors show through.

Making it takes little more than a can opener, a knife and a spoon. Draining canned fruit well keeps the dressing from turning watery, and letting the bowl chill for a few hours gives the marshmallows time to soften and the coconut time to soak up some of the juice.

It keeps well in the refrigerator for a day, though the coconut gets softer the longer it sits.

Ways to celebrate

• Make a bowl of ambrosia using a family recipe or a classic one.
• Try the older style with just oranges, coconut and a little sugar.
• Ask relatives how they made ambrosia and write the recipe down.
• Share a small batch with a neighbor or coworker.
• Toast some pecans or coconut to sprinkle on top.

Dates

All national days on December 12

Also on December 12

• Gingerbread House Day
• National Poinsettia Day
• National Ding-a-Ling Day

Categories: Food days