National Hot Mulled Cider Day

National Hot Mulled Cider Day is celebrated annually on September 30. In 2026, this date falls on a Wednesday. This day invites everyone to warm up with a mug of spiced cider, filling homes with the inviting aromas of apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg as the autumn season arrives.

History of National Hot Mulled Cider Day

Mulled cider has a long history that stretches back to the Middle Ages, when it first gained popularity as a warming beverage for cold winter days according to holiday calendar sources. European settlers brought the tradition of mulled cider to the New World during colonial times, where apple orchards became abundant and the drink became a staple of autumn and winter gatherings.

Although the exact origins of the modern holiday itself remain unclear, the commercialization of mulled cider in the Victorian era helped cement its place in American culture. Over time, mulled cider became a popular choice for holiday celebrations throughout the United States, and companies began producing ready-made spice mixes that made home preparation simple and accessible. Today, National Hot Mulled Cider Day continues to grow in popularity as a well-loved tradition associated with crisp weather and falling leaves.

Why is National Hot Mulled Cider Day important?

Hot mulled cider is the perfect beverage to warm you up on a chilly autumn or winter day. The combination of apple, nutmeg, and cinnamon creates a powerful and inviting scent that fills homes and creates a cozy atmosphere. This drink is surprisingly simple to make at home, requiring only apple cider, brown sugar, and a blend of spices such as cloves, orange peel, and star anise.

National Hot Mulled Cider Day gives everyone a chance to honor this incredible drink and embrace the seasonal shift. It is often associated with fall holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving, but it can also be enjoyed throughout the entire holiday season. The day encourages people to slow down, savor the moment, and share warmth with loved ones.

• Hot mulled cider is a comforting drink that warms both body and spirit.
• It is easy to prepare with simple ingredients found in most kitchens.
• The holiday connects people to autumn traditions and seasonal flavors.
• Sharing a mug of mulled cider creates opportunities for togetherness and conversation.
• Celebrating this day supports local orchards and cider makers, especially when visiting farms or markets.

How to Celebrate National Hot Mulled Cider Day

Host a hot mulled cider party by gathering friends and family for a cozy get-together filled with warm mugs of spiced cider. You can make your own hot mulled cider at home, putting your culinary skills to the test, or support local businesses by visiting a nearby farm or orchard to enjoy freshly made cider. Another idea is to try different variations of the drink, experimenting with spices like cardamom, allspice, or peppercorn, and adding dried fruits such as orange rind or raisins for extra flavor.

If you cannot gather in person, organize a virtual hot mulled cider tasting where participants can share recipes and enjoy the experience together online. For a festive touch, look for candles that have the scent of hot mulled cider to enhance the atmosphere. You can also keep mulled apple cider warm in a slow cooker for a crowd, or fill a thermos with freshly made cider and take it on a hike to enjoy the autumn scenery.

• Mull your cider in a slow cooker throughout the day for the best results.
• Sneak in a bit of apple brandy or bourbon to make an adult version after serving the kids.
• Cheat by buying already spiced cider from stores like Trader Joe’s.
• Serve the cider with a cinnamon stick and a slice of orange for a beautiful presentation.
• Use the hashtag #HotMulledCiderDay to share your celebration with cider lovers worldwide.

National Hot Mulled Cider Day Dates