National Sangria Day celebrates the beloved Spanish wine punch that combines wine, fruits, and sometimes spirits into a refreshing and festive drink. This delightful beverage has evolved from a practical solution for making water potable to a globally enjoyed cocktail.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: December 20th annually
- Tagged as: Food & Drink Holiday
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalSangriaDay #SangriaDay
- When was it founded?: Unknown
- Who founded it?: Origin remains unknown
History of National Sangria Day
Sangria originated in Spain and Portugal over 2,000 years ago when Romans occupied the region. The name comes from “sangre,” meaning blood, referring to its deep red color. Initially created to make water safe for drinking, it evolved into a sophisticated beverage that gained international recognition after being featured at the 1964 New York World’s Fair.
Timeline
- 1100 BC: Phoenicians plant vineyards in Spain
- 700s: Moors conquest temporarily halts sangria production
- 1800s: Sangria becomes popular in England and France
- 1964: Introduction to American audience at World’s Fair
- 2014: EU law restricts “Sangria” label to Spain and Portugal
Dates by Year
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Dec 20 | Friday |
| 2025 | Dec 20 | Saturday |
| 2026 | Dec 20 | Sunday |
How It’s Observed
People celebrate by gathering with friends, making homemade sangria, hosting tasting parties, or enjoying the drink at restaurants. Many create special holiday versions with seasonal fruits and spices.
Fun Facts About Sangria
- Traditional sangria must contain less than 12% alcohol by volume
- White sangria (sangria blanca) is a popular variation
- Virginia banned sangria until 2008
- Comedian Adam Carolla created “Mangria,” a unique sangria variation
Quiz
- What does “sangria” mean in Spanish?
- In which two countries must authentic sangria be made?
- When was sangria introduced to Americans?
-(Answers: 1. Blood 2. Spain and Portugal 3. 1964 World’s Fair)
FAQs
Q: What wine is best for sangria?
A: Traditional red wines like Rioja or Tempranillo work best, but any fruity red wine can be used.
Q: Can sangria be made with white wine?
A: Yes, white sangria (sangria blanca) is a popular variation.
Importance of National Sangria Day
This celebration highlights the rich cultural heritage of Spanish and Portuguese winemaking while promoting social gatherings and festive traditions during the holiday season.
Related
- World Wine Day
- National Cocktail Day
- Spanish Heritage Month
- International Drink Day