National Margarita Day

National Margarita Day is celebrated every year on February 22. The day is dedicated to one of the most beloved cocktails in the United States, encouraging people to appreciate the classic blend of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. While many food and drink holidays occur during the summer months, this particular celebration provides a bright, tropical-themed reprieve during the tail end of winter.

History of National Margarita Day

The holiday was founded in 2008 by Todd McCalla, a commercial real estate agent who wanted to spread his passion for the margarita and advocate for the use of high-quality, fresh ingredients over commercial mixes. McCalla purposefully chose late February for the observance, noting that it is often a gray and somber time of year that could be improved with the “summer sun” imagery associated with the drink. Since its inception, the day has grown from a personal initiative into a major commercial event for the hospitality industry, driving significant foot traffic to bars and restaurants nationwide.

The drink itself has a disputed history with several figures claiming its invention between the 1930s and 1940s. One prominent story credits Carlos “Danny” Herrera, who allegedly mixed the drink in 1938 at his restaurant in Baja California for a dancer named Marjorie King, who was allergic to many spirits but not tequila. Another account attributes the creation to socialite Margarita Sames, who supposedly whipped up the concoction for guests at her Acapulco vacation home in 1948. Regardless of its exact origin, the cocktail gained widespread American fame in the 1950s after being featured in “Esquire” magazine, eventually becoming the most ordered tequila-based drink in the country.

Why is National Margarita Day important?

This day is significant because it highlights the cultural and economic impact of the tequila industry and the craft of mixology. It provides a platform for bartenders to showcase their creativity by experimenting with various types of tequila, ranging from unaged blanco to complex extra-añejo. Economically, the holiday is one of the busiest days of the year for Mexican-themed restaurants and craft cocktail bars, often resulting in millions of margaritas being served in a single 24-hour period.

The observance also fosters community and social connection by bringing people together in a relaxed, festive environment. It serves as an educational opportunity for consumers to learn about the history of the blue agave plant and the traditional methods used to produce authentic tequila. By celebrating the “daisy” (which is the English translation of the Spanish word “margarita”), the holiday reinforces the drink’s status as a symbol of hospitality, relaxation, and shared enjoyment.

• The margarita is consistently ranked as the most popular cocktail in the United States.
• The holiday supports the agricultural industry involved in agave and lime production.
• It encourages a focus on fresh, natural ingredients rather than artificial sweeteners.
• The day provides a boost to the service industry during a typically slow retail month.
• It celebrates a cross-cultural culinary icon that bridges Mexican and American traditions.

How to Celebrate National Margarita Day

Participating in this holiday typically involves visiting a local restaurant to enjoy a professionally crafted drink or hosting a gathering at home. Many people use the day to explore the three primary ways the cocktail is served: on the rocks, frozen, or “straight up.” To celebrate authentically, use fresh-squeezed lime juice and a high-quality agave nectar rather than bottled mixes. For a modern twist, many enthusiasts experiment with spicy additions like jalapeños or fruity infusions involving mango, hibiscus, or blood orange.

Food pairings are another essential part of the celebration, with tacos, ceviche, and guacamole being the most traditional accompaniments. Many bars offer “margarita flights,” allowing patrons to sample smaller portions of several different flavors. If you are celebrating at home, you can rim your glasses with creative salts, such as chili-lime or smoked sea salt, to enhance the flavor profile. Sharing recipes and photos of your creations on social media using the holiday’s hashtag is a common way to connect with the global community of enthusiasts.

• Order a classic margarita with a salted rim at your favorite local Mexican eatery.
• Host a “make-your-own” margarita bar for friends featuring different fruit garnishes.
• Try a unique variation of the drink, such as a smoky version made with mezcal.
• Prepare a margarita-themed dessert, like a tequila-infused lime tart or pie.
• Learn about the different classes of tequila to find your preferred flavor profile.

National Margarita Day Dates Table