Dole Food Company

Dole Food Company will host more than a month of free activities in its hometown of Charlotte leading up to International Pineapple Day on June 27 as part of the produce leader’s 125th Pineapple Crowning Anniversary marking its first 125 years in the pineapple business.

A highlight of the month is the kick-off of a uniquely interactive community treasure hunt that sparks local residents to find 125 hand-painted pineapple rocks hidden in and around the Charlotte area and participating Uptown Chalotte businesses including some that can be redeemed for DOLE® Pineapples, merchandise and other prizes.

In honor of the holiday and Dole’s Uptown Charlotte U.S. headquarters, Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles has officially proclaimed June 27, 2026, as “Charlotte Pineapple Day.”

Dole’s Quasquicentennial celebration honors the foresight of a 24-year-old James Drummond Dole who planted his first pineapple plants in Wahiawa, Hawaii, in 1901 to found the Hawaiian Pineapple Company, which later became Dole.

As part of its "Sweet Surprise Pineapple Hunt," Dole team members are hiding 125 rocks hand-painted with pineapple-themed messages of positivity and inspiration in and around Uptown Charlotte. The company has recruited a host of neighboring Uptown Charlotte businesses—coffee shops, cafes, bakeries, delis. markets and stores—to join in on the fun according to the following week:

o June 7-13: Amelie’s French Bakery Café (Uptown Charlotte café)
o June 14-20: Johnny Burrito
o June 21-27: All businesses will participate during Pineapple Week leading up to International Pineapple Day on June 27.
o June 28-July 4: Rhino Market & Deli (Uptown Charlotte market)
o July 5-11: Coco and the Director
o July 12-18: Devon & Blakely (Uptown Charlotte café)
o July 19-25: Paper Skyscraper (Uptown Charlotte store)
o July 26-Aug. 1: Geno D’s Pizza

For details, go to https://www.dole.com/pineapple125.