National Harvey Wallbanger Day celebrates the iconic cocktail that combines vodka, orange juice, and Galliano liqueur. This beloved drink gained massive popularity in the 1970s and remains a classic cocktail choice today.
Quick Facts
When is it?: November 8
Tagged as: Food & Drink Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #HarveyWallbangerDay
When was it founded?: Early 1970s
Who founded it?: McKesson Imports Company
History
The Harvey Wallbanger’s origin story is wrapped in mystery and marketing genius. While some claim it was created by mixologist Donato “Duke” Antone in 1952, the drink’s true fame came through a brilliant marketing campaign by George Bednar of McKesson Imports Company. The campaign featured a cartoon surfer character created by artist Bill Young, alongside the catchy slogan “Harvey Wallbanger is the name. And I can be made!”
Timeline
- 1952: Alleged creation at the Blackwatch Bar
- Late 1960s: Launch of the marketing campaign
- 1970s: Peak popularity as America’s favorite cocktail
- 1972: Harvey Wallbanger becomes popular write-in presidential candidate
- 2016: Revival campaign “Vote 4 Wallbanger”
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Nov 8 | Friday |
| 2025 | Nov 8 | Saturday |
| 2026 | Nov 8 | Sunday |
Observed
The day is celebrated worldwide but particularly in the United States, where bars often offer special prices on Harvey Wallbanger cocktails and host themed parties.
Fun Facts About Harvey Wallbanger
- The drink is essentially a Screwdriver with a Galliano float
- It became the most popular imported liqueur in America during the 1970s
- The Milwaukee Brewers baseball team was nicknamed “Harvey’s Wallbangers” in 1982
Quiz
- What’s the main liqueur in a Harvey Wallbanger?
- In which decade did the drink reach peak popularity?
- Who created the famous Harvey Wallbanger cartoon character?
-(Answers: 1. Galliano 2. 1970s 3. Bill Young)
FAQs
- What’s in a Harvey Wallbanger?
- Vodka, orange juice, and Galliano
- Why the name?
- Named after a surfer who allegedly banged into walls after drinking too many
- How is it served?
- In a highball glass with an orange slice garnish
Importance of Harvey Wallbanger Day
This celebration preserves the legacy of a classic cocktail that represents the creative marketing and mixology of the 1970s American bar culture.
Related
- National Cocktail Day
- World Bartender Day
- National Orange Juice Day
- International Vodka Day