European Mushroom Day Date in the current year: September 28, 2024

Fungi comprise one of the five taxonomic kingdoms (the other four are plants, animals, bacteria, and protists). Fungi are most often associated with mushrooms, fleshy fruiting bodies that some types of fungi produce, but molds and yeasts are fungi, too.

Fungi play a very important role in ecosystems. They help decompose organic matter and act as symbionts for some plants, playing an important role in biogeochemical cycle. Some types of fungi are used as a leavening agent, in fermentation processes, and for the production of antibiotics. And, of course, many mushrooms are a source of food for animals including humans. Some mushrooms (for example, truffles) are even considered a delicacy.

European Mushroom Day was established to recognize the role of fungi (especially mushroom-producing ones). Each year, its organizers present “the edible mushroom of the year” that serves as the theme for the day. For example, the first ever European Mushroom Day (September 24, 2016) was dedicated to Imleria badia, commonly known as the day bolete.

On the fourth Saturday in September, over a hundred mushroom-themed events are held in European countries. They include, but are not limited to, mushroom hikes, eco tours, exhibitions, seminars for professionals, public lectures, and other educational events.