When is National Bourbon Day?

It is observed on June 14 each year.

How do people celebrate National Bourbon Day?

Try a bourbon from a smaller distillery, or learn to make a classic Old Fashioned properly.

Annual observance

National Bourbon Day

June 14 Cultural / community observance Updated 2026-07-08

National Bourbon Day 🥃 is featured in the Obscure Holiday Calendar app with custom icons, reminder options, and quick posts.

Overview

National Bourbon Day, observed annually on June 14th, celebrates America's native spirit, bourbon whiskey. It's a day for enthusiasts and newcomers alike to appreciate the unique characteristics, rich history, and intricate craftsmanship involved in producing this distinctive American liquor, often enjoyed responsibly through tastings, special events, or a simple pour.

Why it matters: National Bourbon Day on June 14 celebrates bourbon whiskey as America's native spirit, highlighting its unique characteristics and rich history. This observance fosters appreciation for the craftsmanship behind bourbon production, connecting communities through shared cultural heritage.

Origin and story

In 1964, the U.S. Congress officially declared bourbon "America's Native Spirit."

To be legally called bourbon, it must be aged in new, charred oak containers (barrels).

Quick facts

DateJune 14
TypeCultural / community observance
Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

There's no law requiring bourbon to be made in Kentucky, yet the state still produces roughly 95% of the world's supply — largely thanks to limestone-filtered water that other regions simply can't replicate.

Pour a glass

Celebrate by:

Trying a bourbon you've never had, ideally from a smaller or lesser-known distillery.
Learning to make one classic bourbon cocktail properly, like an Old Fashioned.

See where the name and legal rules came from

Helpful resources:

Where Bourbon Really Got Its Name (Smithsonian Magazine)

Did you know?

Congress formally declared bourbon a "distinctive product of the United States" in 1964, but even historians disagree on where the name itself came from — competing theories point to Kentucky's Bourbon County or, separately, a street in New Orleans.

Fun facts

In 1964, the U.S. Congress officially declared bourbon "America's Native Spirit."
To be legally called bourbon, it must be aged in new, charred oak containers (barrels).
Bourbon's mash bill (the grain mixture before distillation) must be at least 51% corn.

Sources and attribution

Where Bourbon Really Got Its Name (Smithsonian Magazine)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Continue your streak

Open one more holiday before you go to build daily momentum.

Yesterday: National Weed Your Garden DayQuick context from the day before.
Tomorrow: Nature Photography DayKeep the streak going with tomorrow's pick.
Random pick: National Bow Tie DayJump to another surprise holiday.
Popular: National Brownie DayA fan favorite with broad appeal.

FAQ

When is National Bourbon Day?: It is observed on June 14 each year.
What is National Bourbon Day?: National Bourbon Day, observed annually on June 14th, celebrates America's native spirit, bourbon whiskey. It's a day for enthusiasts and newcomers alike to appreciate the unique characteristics, rich history, and intricate craftsmanship involved in producing this distinctive American liquor, often enjoyed responsibly through tastings, special events, or a simple pour.
How do people celebrate National Bourbon Day?: Try a bourbon from a smaller distillery, or learn to make a classic Old Fashioned properly.

Get the app

Thousands of obscure holidays, daily widgets, reminders, and fun facts—free on iOS and Android.