A margarita is a beloved cocktail made with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice, typically served in a glass with a salted rim. National Margarita Day celebrates this iconic drink that has become America’s most popular tequila-based cocktail.
Quick Facts
When is it?: February 22nd annually
Tagged as: Food & Beverage Holiday
What’s the hashtag?: #NationalMargaritaDay
When was it founded?: 2008
Who founded it?: Todd McCalla
History
The margarita’s origins remain mysterious, with multiple origin stories dating back to the 1930s. One popular tale credits Carlos “Danny” Herrera, who created the drink at his Tijuana restaurant Rancho La Gloria in 1938 for actress Marjorie King, who was allergic to all spirits except tequila. The name “margarita” means “daisy” in Spanish, possibly inspired by the prohibition-era cocktail called “The Daisy.”
Timeline
- 1930s: Tequila Daisy and Picador cocktails gain popularity
- 1938: Carlos Herrera creates the margarita at Rancho La Gloria
- 1953: First published margarita recipe appears in Esquire magazine
- 1971: First frozen margarita machine invented
- 2008: National Margarita Day established
Dates for Next Year
Year | Month | Date | Day |
---|---|---|---|
2025 | February | 22 | Saturday |
2026 | February | 22 | Sunday |
2027 | February | 22 | Monday |
2028 | February | 22 | Tuesday |
2029 | February | 22 | Wednesday |
2030 | February | 22 | Thursday |
Observed
The day is celebrated worldwide but particularly in the United States, where Americans consume approximately 185,000 margaritas per hour. Bars and restaurants often offer special promotions and unique variations of the classic drink.
Fun Facts About Margaritas
- The world’s largest margarita was made in Las Vegas, measuring 8,500 gallons
- The first frozen margarita machine was adapted from a soft-serve ice cream machine
- Popular variations include strawberry, mango, watermelon, and pomegranate
- A traditional margarita contains only three ingredients: tequila, triple sec, and lime juice
Quiz
- What does “margarita” mean in Spanish?
- In what year was the first frozen margarita machine invented?
- Who founded National Margarita Day?
-(Answers: 1. Daisy, 2. 1971, 3. Todd McCalla)
FAQs
- How do you make a classic margarita?
Mix 4 oz tequila, 2 oz triple sec, and 1.5 oz lime juice in a glass with a salted rim - What type of glass should be used?
A stemmed margarita glass or rocks glass - Can you make a virgin margarita?
Yes, simply omit the alcohol and use lime juice, orange juice, and simple syrup
Related Celebrations
- National Tequila Day
- National Cocktail Day
- International Bartender Day
- Mexican Independence Day
- Cinco de Mayo