Some call it “corn-stick,” others go with “sweet pole,” but we like to call it amazing — especially when you use those cute plastic corn on the cob handles. National Corn on the Cob Day falls on June 11 — the perfect pre-summer date. (Although, for most home gardens, mid-June is still too early for the harvest.)
But you can’t blame anyone for being in a hurry. The sweetness doesn’t hang around for very long. It has to be picked at its freshest, otherwise there’s a risk of — nothing really — it’s just slightly less incredible tasting.
Note: If you plan on doing the picking yourself, there’s a trick to spotting when the corn is ready. During the milk stage, the kernels are still soft, and this is nature’s way of saying “come and get it!” Boil it, steam it, roast it, or grill it —
there’s no wrong or right method as long as it stays on that cob.
Go to a parade- Yep, there’s a parade. It’s in Plainview, Minnesota, which might be a bit far for some, but if you really love corn, you’ll make the trip. Trust us, it’s worth it. There are street dancers, a talent show, and a soap box derby. Have you ever seen a soap box derby in real life? It’s a real treat that only gets better with a side of corn…but only if you’re not driving.
Share your pics on social media- If you’re lucky enough to attend the parade in Minnesota, upload some videos. There’s a lot of corn lovers out there who’d really appreciate it. And don’t forget to tag everything with #NationalCornOnTheCobDay.
Brush up on corn trivia- Hold a trivia night centered on facts about corn. It has a fascinating history and some of its uses will surprise you (in a good way). You’ll also have the chance to decide the argument over how to eat corn on the cob correctly. Many people say as long as you hold both ends you’re good to go, but you know better. According to etiquette experts, you should butter a few rows at a time, and then eat moving side to side like a typewriter. (Or a keyboard if you’re under 80.)
