World Cocktail Day is an annual celebration dedicated to the art and history of cocktails. It commemorates the first recorded definition of a cocktail, published on May 13, 1806, in The Balance and Columbian Repository. This day honors the creativity and craftsmanship behind mixed drinks, making it a global occasion for cocktail enthusiasts and mixologists alike.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: May 13 every year
- Tagged as: A celebration of mixology and cocktails
- What’s the hashtag?: #WorldCocktailDay
- When was it founded?: 2006
- Who founded it?: The Museum of the American Cocktail
History of World Cocktail Day
The term “cocktail” was first defined in 1806 as a “stimulating liquor composed of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters.” This simple yet iconic description laid the foundation for modern mixology. Cocktails gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in Britain and the United States. By the 1920s Prohibition era in America, creative bartenders began crafting cocktails to mask the taste of low-quality alcohol.
World Cocktail Day was officially established in 2006 by The Museum of the American Cocktail to celebrate this rich history and the evolving artistry of cocktail-making.
Timeline
- 1806: The first definition of “cocktail” is published.
- 1862: Jerry Thomas writes The Bartender’s Guide, a seminal book on cocktail recipes.
- 1920s: Prohibition spurs innovation in cocktail creation.
- 1987: Dale DeGroff revives classic cocktails at New York’s Rainbow Room.
- 2006: World Cocktail Day is officially recognized.
Dates by Next Year (2025–2030)
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 13 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | May 13 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | May 13 | Thursday |
| 2028 | May 13 | Saturday |
| 2029 | May 13 | Sunday |
| 2030 | May 13 | Monday |
Observed
World Cocktail Day is celebrated globally with events like mixology classes, cocktail competitions, and themed parties. Bars often feature special menus, while enthusiasts experiment with new recipes at home.
Fun Facts About Cocktails
- The word “cocktail” may derive from “coquetier,” French for egg cup.
- The Sazerac, invented in New Orleans in 1838, is considered one of the oldest cocktails.
- During Prohibition, cocktails like the Bee’s Knees were created to mask poor-quality alcohol.
- Japan has elevated cocktail-making into an art form with techniques like hand-carved ice.
Quiz
- When was the term “cocktail” first defined?
- What are the four ingredients listed in the original cocktail definition?
- Which U.S. era popularized creative cocktail recipes due to alcohol restrictions?
(Answers:)
- 1806
- Spirits, sugar, water, bitters
- Prohibition
FAQs
Q: What is the most popular cocktail worldwide?
A: The Old Fashioned remains a favorite for its simplicity and flavor.
Q: Can I celebrate without alcohol?
A: Absolutely! Mocktails are a great way to enjoy World Cocktail Day.
Q: Why is May 13 significant?
A: It marks the publication date of the first recorded definition of “cocktail.”
Related
- National Cocktail Day (March 24)
- International Margarita Day (February 22)
- World Gin Day (Second Saturday in June)