National Harvey Wallbanger Day

A cheerful person holding a cocktail named 'Harvey Wallbanger', dressed in casual beach attire, enjoying a tropical beach setting.. — National harvey wallbanger day illustration

Welcome to the wild and wacky world of National Harvey Wallbanger Day! Grab your favorite bottle of vodka and get ready to celebrate this delightfully named holiday.

When is Harvey Wallbanger Day?

It's national harvey wallbanger day on the 8th November.

What is National Harvey Wallbanger Day?

On this fantastic day, we pay tribute to the iconic Harvey Wallbanger cocktail. Originating in the 1950s, this drink has brought joy to countless parties and gatherings ever since. The Harvey Wallbanger consists of vodka, Galliano (a herbal Italian liqueur), and orange juice, creating a delicious and refreshing mix that will instantly remind you of sunny beaches and good times.

But where did this peculiar name come from? Who is this Harvey, and why is he banging walls? Well, my friend, the origins of the Harvey Wallbanger are shrouded in mystery. Some say it was named after a person who may or may not have enjoyed one too many of these cocktails. Others believe the drink got its moniker from the marketing campaign for the Galliano liqueur, featuring a fictional surfer named Harvey who supposedly banged into walls after drinking the cocktail.

Whatever the truth may be, National Harvey Wallbanger Day is all about embracing the joy and nostalgia that this cocktail brings. So, put on your bartending hat, mix up some Harvey Wallbangers, and let the good times roll!

How to Celebrate?

Celebrating National Harvey Wallbanger Day is as easy as one, two, three (or should we say vodka, Galliano, and orange juice?). Here are a few ways you can make the most of this memorable holiday:

Throw a Harvey Wallbanger-themed party: Invite your friends over for a fun-filled evening of Harvey Wallbangers, retro decorations, and groovy music from the 1950s and 60s.
Try new variations: While the classic Harvey Wallbanger recipe is fantastic, don't be afraid to experiment. Add a splash of cranberry juice or try different flavored vodkas to create your own unique twist on this iconic cocktail.
Share the love: Introduce your loved ones to the wonders of the Harvey Wallbanger. Whip up a batch and host a tasting session, or send out homemade Harvey Wallbanger kits as quirky and delightful gifts.
Host a mixology class: If you're a Harvey Wallbanger expert, why not share your knowledge with others? Gather a group of friends or colleagues and teach them how to mix the perfect Harvey Wallbanger.
Spread the word on social media: Use the hashtag #HarveyWallbangerDay to join the online celebration and share your favorite Harvey Wallbanger memories and recipes.

Did You Know?

In 2016, on November 8th, National Harvey Wallbanger Day received the most online mentions ever detected. It seems people couldn't resist sharing their love for this quirky holiday and the delightful cocktail it honors.

History behind the term 'Harvey Wallbanger'

1952

The Birth of the Harvey Wallbanger

In 1952, a talented mixologist by the name of Donato 'Duke' Antone created a new cocktail that would soon become known as the Harvey Wallbanger. Duke Antone was the owner of a popular bar in Hollywood called 'Duke's Blackwatch Bar.' He came up with this drink as a tribute to a local surfer named Tom Harvey, who was known for banging into walls after consuming too many drinks.

1963

The Rise to Popularity

The Harvey Wallbanger gained popularity in the 1960s and became the signature drink of a famous bartender named Bill Doner. Doner was known for his marketing skills, and he successfully promoted the Harvey Wallbanger by creating a fictional character named 'Harvey Wallbanger the Surfing Hippie' for a Galliano liqueur commercial. This clever advertising campaign helped spread the popularity of the cocktail across the United States.

1970

The Harvey Wallbanger Controversy

In the 1970s, there was some controversy surrounding the Harvey Wallbanger cocktail. Traditionally, the recipe called for vodka, orange juice, and Galliano liqueur. However, due to its popularity, many bars started using low-quality ingredients and neglecting the Galliano, resulting in a subpar experience. This led to a decline in the reputation of the drink and its association with being a 'cheap' cocktail.

2000

The Harvey Wallbanger Renaissance

Around the year 2000, there was a resurgence of interest in classic cocktails, including the Harvey Wallbanger. With the cocktail renaissance, bartenders started revisiting old recipes and techniques, leading to a revival of the Harvey Wallbanger. They began using high-quality ingredients and carefully balancing the flavors to enhance the cocktail's taste profile. As a result, the Harvey Wallbanger regained its status as a delicious and respectable drink.

Present

The Modern Harvey Wallbanger

Today, the Harvey Wallbanger continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. It is a classic cocktail that represents the fun and vibrant spirit of the 1960s and serves as a reminder of the creativity and innovation within the bartending community. Whether you order it at a beach bar or a sophisticated cocktail lounge, the Harvey Wallbanger is a beloved drink that has stood the test of time.