World Cocktail Day 🍸

Overview

World Cocktail Day is celebrated annually on May 13th, commemorating the first published definition of the word "cocktail" in an American newspaper. It's a global occasion for mixologists, enthusiasts, and the hospitality industry to appreciate the history, artistry, and diverse range of mixed drinks, encouraging people to explore new recipes, enjoy classic concoctions, and celebrate the culture of cocktails responsibly.

Origin and story

The first known definition of 'cocktail' was published on May 13, 1806, in *The Balance and Columbian Repository* of Hudson, New York.

The 1806 definition described a cocktail as 'a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water, and bitters.'

Quick facts

• DateMay 13
• TypeFood / Dessert
• Great forFoodies, Chocolate lovers, Home bakers

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Ways to celebrate

May 13 isn't a random date — it marks the earliest known print definition of the word "cocktail," published over two centuries ago in response to a curious reader's question.

Read the original definition

On May 13, 1806, a New York newspaper called The Balance and Columbian Repository answered a reader asking what a "cocktail" actually was, defining it as "a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water, and bitters." That's essentially still the bones of an Old Fashioned today.

Make something with that original structure

Mix a drink built on those same four elements — spirit, sugar, water, bitters — and taste how much (or how little) cocktail-making has actually changed in over 200 years.

Trace the name's murky origin

The definition explains what a cocktail is, but not why it's called that. Read up on the competing theories for where the word "cocktail" itself came from — nobody has ever definitively settled it.

Helpful resources: Origins of the Word Cocktail (Difford's Guide)

Fun facts

• The first known definition of 'cocktail' was published on May 13, 1806, in *The Balance and Columbian Repository* of Hudson, New York.
• The 1806 definition described a cocktail as 'a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water, and bitters.'
• While the term's precise origin is debated, popular theories include references to rooster tail feathers used as garnishes or a French egg cup (coquetier) used for serving drinks.

Sources and attribution

• Origins of the Word Cocktail (Difford's Guide)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Continue your streak

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

• Yesterday: National Limerick DayQuick context from the day before.
• Tomorrow: Dance Like a Chicken DayKeep the streak going with tomorrow's pick.
• Random pick: World Nutella DayJump to another surprise holiday.
• Popular: World Plant a Vegetable Garden DayA fan favorite with broad appeal.

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FAQ

When is World Cocktail Day?

It is observed on May 13 each year.

What is World Cocktail Day?

World Cocktail Day is celebrated annually on May 13th, commemorating the first published definition of the word "cocktail" in an American newspaper. It's a global occasion for mixologists, enthusiasts, and the hospitality industry to appreciate the history, artistry, and diverse range of mixed drinks, encouraging people to explore new recipes, enjoy classic concoctions, and celebrate the culture of cocktails responsibly.

How do people celebrate World Cocktail Day?

Mix a drink using the original 1806 definition of a cocktail (spirit, sugar, water, and bitters), and read about the still-unresolved debate over where the word came from.

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