National Margarita Day

Happy people clinking salt-rimmed margarita glasses at a tropical beach, wearing colorful Hawaiian shirts and straw hats.. — National margarita day illustration

Oh, to imagine a day where relaxation and refreshment pair as perfectly as salt rims and lime wedges! Dear reader, we're diving into the frosty, rim-clinkin' celebrations of every tequila lover's favorite holiday - National Margarita Day. Now, you don't have to be an expert mixologist to appreciate this - we're about to 'shake up' some history!

When is Margarita Day?

It's national margarita day on the 22nd February.

A Toast to the History!

The National Margarita Day, contrary to popular belief, does not trace its origins back to Mexico. Instead, it’s an internet-crafted holiday, spotted first in the digital realms of cyberspace in the early 2000s (like a lime wedge in a tall glass of mixed drink!). The idea was simple – a day to honor the classic Mexican cocktail and the undeniable joy it brings to party-goers and relaxed recliners alike.

Internet Highlights

Oddly enough, despite the plenty of the mentions, the creator of this day remains as elusive as the origins of the margarita itself. Our data showed a jaw-dropping 152,350 mentions online! The internet collectively clinked their cocktail glasses in celebration on February 22, 2017 - the day with the highest number of mentions. The hashtag #NationalMargaritaDay trended worldwide - creating a symphony of clinking glasses and cocktail shakers in the digital realm!

Why does it Matter?

It isn’t just about tequila and triple sec! Celebrating National Margarita Day has shone a spotlight on Hispanic culture, turned many into amateur mixologists, and acted as a catalyst for communal merriment. Whether you enjoy a tried-and-true classic on the rocks, a fruity frozen variety, or a luxe top-shelf indulgence, it’s about getting together and toasting to good times.

History behind the term 'Margarita'

1938

The Birth of the Margarita

In 1938, the margarita was born in the city of Tijuana, Mexico. The credit for its creation is often attributed to Carlos 'Danny' Herrera, a bartender at the Rancho La Gloria restaurant. The story goes that a customer, an aspiring actress named Marjorie King, was allergic to all alcoholic drinks except tequila but found it too harsh to drink straight. Herrera, eager to accommodate her request, mixed tequila, lime juice, and a touch of triple sec to create the first-ever margarita.

1948

A Margarita Champion Emerges

Ten years later, in 1948, a socialite named Tommy Hilton visited the Rancho La Gloria restaurant in Tijuana. Impressed by the delicious margarita, he introduced it to the masses through his Hilton chain of hotels. This exposure helped popularize the cocktail and put the margarita on the map as a refreshing and enjoyable drink.

1971

The Rise of the Margarita in the United States

The 1970s saw the margarita gain immense popularity in the United States. With the rise of Mexican cuisine and an increased interest in tequila, the margarita became a mainstay on cocktail menus across the country. Its tangy and refreshing flavors, combined with the fun and festive image associated with Mexico, made it a go-to drink for many Americans.

1991

The Invention of the Frozen Margarita

In 1991, the world of margaritas changed forever with the invention of the frozen margarita machine by Dallas restaurateur Mariano Martinez. Inspired by the Slurpee machine, Martinez modified it to create a perfectly blended frozen margarita. This innovation made it easy for bartenders and individuals to prepare consistent and delicious frozen margaritas, further solidifying the margarita's place as a beloved cocktail.

2008

The Largest Margarita Ever Made

On October 14, 2008, the city of Las Vegas made history by creating the world's largest margarita. Weighing an astounding 8,500 gallons, this enormous margarita contained over 2,000 gallons of tequila, 1,300 gallons of triple sec, and 5,000 gallons of lime mix. It was a remarkable feat that celebrated the margarita's status as an iconic cocktail enjoyed by millions worldwide.

Did you know?

The original Margarita recipe claims to be equal parts tequila, orange liqueur, and lime, shaken over ice, strained into a salt-rimmed glass. But, hey, who's measuring when it's Margarita Day!