National Eggnog Day

Joyful person holding a glass of eggnog, wearing a cozy sweater, surrounded by holiday decorations.. — National eggnog day illustration

Hey there, eggnog enthusiasts! Get ready to raise your glasses and salute the most delightful holiday beverage of all time. It's time to celebrate National Eggnog Day!

When is Eggnog Day?

It's national eggnog day on the 24th December.

The Origin Story of Eggnog

Have you ever wondered where this creamy, rich, and oh-so-festive concoction came from? Well, let me whisk you through the fascinating history of eggnog.

Believe it or not, eggnog has been around for centuries. Its origins can be traced back to medieval Europe, where it was called 'posset.' This early version of eggnog was a hot, spiced ale mixed with milk and eggs. Yum, right? The tradition of enjoying posset during winter celebrations spread across Europe, and each country put its own spin on the recipe.

But it wasn't until the beverage made its way to America that it truly became eggnog as we know it. The colonists gave it a twist by adding rum, a popular spirit at the time. In fact, eggnog was so beloved by the founding fathers that it even played a part in the American Revolution. George Washington himself reportedly served a version of eggnog at his famous Christmas parties. Talk about a patriotic drink!

Eggnog Takes the Internet by Storm

Now, let's fast forward to the age of the internet. With the rise of social media and countless recipe-sharing websites, eggnog's popularity exploded. People couldn't resist sharing their own unique variations of this creamy delight. From classic recipes to daring twists like eggnog-flavored ice cream, the internet became a treasure trove of eggnog-inspired creations.

On December 24, 2015, eggnog fever reached its peak online. Social media platforms were flooded with posts, tweets, and mouthwatering pictures of Christmas-themed eggnogs. It was a holiday phenomenon like no other!

CEggnog: The Perfect Holiday Drink

So, what makes eggnog so special? Well, besides its irresistible combination of milk, eggs, sugar, and nutmeg, eggnog brings people together. Just think about it: sipping on a mug of eggnog by the fireplace, surrounded by loved ones, and sharing stories of holiday cheer. It's pure magic.

Whether you enjoy it spiked with your favorite liquor or prefer a non-alcoholic version, eggnog is the go-to drink for spreading holiday joy. Its velvety texture and cozy flavors are guaranteed to put a smile on your face.

History behind the term 'Eggnog'

1607

The Early Origins

Eggnog's history dates back to 1607 when John Smith and the settlers of Colonial America began to explore and settle in the new world. They brought with them the tradition of consuming a warm, milk-based beverage known as 'posset.' Posset was made by curdling milk with ale or wine and adding spices. This early beverage was the precursor to eggnog.

1700s

Rising Popularity

By the 1700s, eggnog had gained popularity among the American colonies. The base ingredients typically included milk, eggs, and spirits such as rum or brandy. Due to the accessibility of these ingredients, eggnog became a staple of celebrations during the holiday season, particularly Christmas and New Year's. It was often served in large communal bowls, with each person adding their desired amount of alcohol.

1775

The Revolutionary Drink

During the American Revolutionary War in 1775, soldiers referred to eggnog as the 'revolutionary drink.' It played a significant role in fostering camaraderie among troops and boosting morale during the harsh winter months. General George Washington was also known to be a fan of eggnog, frequently serving it to his guests.

1820s

The Term 'Eggnog'

The term 'eggnog' itself emerged in the early 19th century. The 'nog' part originates from the word 'noggin,' which was a small, carved wooden mug used to serve alcohol. 'Egg' reflects the fundamental ingredient of the beverage. The combination of the two words created the term 'eggnog,' which eventually became the dominant name for the festive drink.

19th Century

Eggnog in Literature

Eggnog found its place in various literary works during the 19th century. In Charles Dickens' classic novel 'A Christmas Carol,' the character Ebenezer Scrooge enjoys a bowl of Smoking Bishop, a spiced wine concoction similar to eggnog. This further popularized the association of festive drinks like eggnog with holiday celebrations.

20th Century

Commercial Production and Variations

In the early 20th century, commercial production of eggnog became more prominent. Companies started bottling and selling pre-made eggnog, making it readily available for consumers. During this time, variations of the traditional recipe emerged, including non-alcoholic versions and flavor additions such as nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla. Eggnog became a beloved seasonal treat enjoyed by people of all ages.

Present

Continued Holiday Tradition

Today, eggnog remains a cherished holiday tradition. It is still traditionally consumed during the Christmas season, often spiked with alcohol or enjoyed in non-alcoholic forms. Additionally, various countries and cultures have incorporated their own unique versions of eggnog, such as 'coquito' in Puerto Rico and 'advocaat' in the Netherlands. Eggnog continues to bring joy and warmth to festive gatherings around the world.

Did you know?

Did you know that eggnog originally made its debut as 'posset' in medieval Europe? And it was even enjoyed by George Washington himself! Talk about a historical sip!