National Pears Hélène Day is observed in the USA every March 15. This day celebrates the dessert Pears Hélène, which consists of pears poached in sugar syrup and served with vanilla ice cream, chocolate sauce, and often topped with sliced almonds instead of crystallized violets. The dessert has French origins, created by Auguste Escoffier as a tribute to the opera La belle Hélène by Jacques Offenbach, which debuted in December 1864. While Americans may not have the same affinity for pears as they do for apples, pears rank as the third most important crop in the U.S. On this day, people are encouraged to enjoy pears in various forms, including fresh, in desserts, or as juice and jams. Additionally, pears are recognized for their health benefits, being a good source of Vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium, and copper.