Fresno State Pistachio Day, a new project to promote the awareness of the nut as an important part of California agriculture, will be celebrated from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Thursday, March 26, at Fresno State’s Rue and Gwen Gibson Farm Market.

The free, public event is presented in partnership with the American Pistachio Growers and will feature free samples of pistachios, Fresno State’s pistachio nut ice cream and new recipes featuring pistachios.

“Pistachios are a vital part of California agriculture with 99 percent of the nation’s pistachios grown here,” said Richard Matoian, American Pistachio Growers executive director. “We are excited to partner with the Gibson Farm Market to continue the education of the public on the importance of pistachios.”

There will also be informational flyers and an interactive game wheel featuring fun facts and nutritional facts regarding pistachios, with the opportunity to win pistachio-related prizes. Customers can receive a reusable bag with the purchase of 14 ounces of pistachios. (Supplies are limited — one reusable bag per customer.)

The Fresno State Food Processing students will offer caramel-glazed pistachios and salt and pepper pistachios for sampling. They will also have a consumer survey so customers can vote for flavored pistachios to be featured in the future at the Gibson Farm Market.

“We are happy to have this opportunity to continue to reach out to further educate the community,” said Nina Palomino, Gibson Farm Market manager. “We are aiming to continue to reach out to leaders in the agriculture industry to allow us to host more awareness days such as Pistachio Day.”

Pistachio Day worldwide is observed Feb. 26 but for this year a local observance is planned Thursday to highlight this new partnership, Palomino said. For more information and hours, call 559.278.4511 or email nipalomino@csufresno.edu.

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