National Coquito Day

National Coquito Day is observed annually on December 21, celebrating the rich, coconut-based holiday beverage that is synonymous with Puerto Rican Christmas traditions. This festive occasion honors the “Little Coconut” drink that brings warmth, flavor, and community spirit to the holiday season.

History of National Coquito Day

The observance was officially founded in 2018 by Destilería Serrallés, the producer of Don Q Rum, one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic spirit brands. The company established the day to recognize the cultural significance of coquito, which serves as a delicious emblem of Puerto Rican heritage. By formalizing the date on December 21—right before the peak of Christmas festivities—the holiday ensures that the tradition of making and sharing this creamy elixir is celebrated widely, both on the island and across the diaspora.

The history of the drink itself is a blend of cultures, much like Puerto Rico itself. While the exact origins are debated, many historians believe coquito evolved from the Spanish tradition of eggnog (known as ponche), which was adapted by locals using indigenous ingredients. The introduction of coconut milk and Puerto Rican rum transformed the European recipe into a distinctively tropical beverage. Over generations, it has become a staple of “parrandas” (holiday caroling parties), with every family claiming their secret recipe is the best.

Why is National Coquito Day important?

National Coquito Day celebrates more than just a cocktail; it honors a symbol of hospitality and connection. In Puerto Rican culture, making coquito is often a communal activity where families gather to mix large batches. Bottling the drink and gifting it to friends, neighbors, and coworkers is a gesture of love and goodwill. The holiday reinforces these bonds, encouraging people to slow down amidst the holiday rush and share a moment of sweetness with others.

The day also highlights the diversity of holiday traditions within the United States. While traditional eggnog is widely known, coquito offers a flavorful alternative that reflects the vibrant Latino influence on American culture. It provides an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to explore new flavors, learning that the holidays can taste like coconut, cinnamon, and vanilla, not just pine and peppermint.

• It preserves and promotes Puerto Rican cultural heritage.
• The day encourages the tradition of homemade gift-giving.
• It highlights the unique culinary history of the Caribbean.
• The observance brings families together for kitchen rituals.
• It offers a delicious tropical alternative to traditional eggnog.

How to Celebrate National Coquito Day

The most authentic way to celebrate is to make your own batch of coquito at home. While recipes vary, the core ingredients usually include coconut milk, cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, vanilla, and plenty of white or aged Puerto Rican rum. Blending these ingredients with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a rich, creamy drink that is best served chilled. Many families leave out the eggs found in traditional eggnog, relying on the coconut fats for creaminess.

If you are not a mixologist, you can celebrate by supporting a local Puerto Rican restaurant or bakery that serves the drink during the holidays. It is also a perfect day to host a tasting party where friends bring their own versions—some might add pistachios, chocolate, or even coffee—to compare flavors. The spirit of the day is sharing, so pouring a glass for a neighbor or friend is the ultimate way to observe the holiday.

• Blend a fresh batch of coquito using a family recipe.
• Gift a bottle to a friend or neighbor as a holiday treat.
• Visit a Puerto Rican restaurant to try their version.
• Host a “Coquito vs. Eggnog” taste test with friends.
• Share your creation on social media to spread the tradition.

National Coquito Day Dates Table