National Sangria Day

National Sangria Day is observed annually on December 20. This boozy holiday raises a glass to the famous wine-based punch that originated in Spain and Portugal. While often thought of as a summer cooler, this versatile cocktail is celebrated just before winter officially begins, highlighting its ability to be adapted with seasonal fruits and spices for any time of year.

History of National Sangria Day

The origins of sangria date back thousands of years to the Roman expansion across the Iberian Peninsula around 200 BC. The Romans planted extensive vineyards in the region, but because water at the time was often unsafe to drink, they fortified it with wine, herbs, and spices to kill off bacteria. This early mixture, sometimes called “hippocras,” was the ancestor of modern sangria. The name “sangria” comes from the Spanish word sangre, meaning “blood,” referring to the dark red color of the traditional red wine blend.

In the United States, the drink remained relatively obscure until the 1964 New York World’s Fair. The Spanish Pavilion served the fruity punch to visitors, and it became an instant sensation. Following its debut, American guests began serving it at dinner parties, and it quickly cemented itself as a staple of festive gatherings. Today, the definition has expanded well beyond the traditional red wine recipe to include white wine (Sangria Blanca), sparkling wine (Cava), and various regional interpretations.

Why is National Sangria Day important?

This holiday celebrates one of the most social and communal drinks in the world. Unlike cocktails made to order for individuals, sangria is almost always prepared in large pitchers or punch bowls, intended to be shared among a group. This makes it a symbol of hospitality and gathering. It encourages people to slow down, sit together, and enjoy conversation over a shared drink, reinforcing the connection between food, beverage, and friendship.

The day also highlights the incredible versatility of the beverage. Sangria is not a rigid recipe but a concept that allows for endless creativity. It can be light and citrusy for warm weather or rich and spiced with cinnamon and pears for the holidays. This adaptability makes it an approachable entry point for people exploring wine, as the addition of fruit and sweeteners can make the tannins in red wine more palatable for beginners.

• It encourages creativity in home bartending.
• It brings people together through shared serving vessels.
• It offers a way to use up leftover wine and fruit.
• It celebrates Spanish culture and culinary history.
• It provides a festive alternative to standard beer or wine.

How to Celebrate National Sangria Day

The best way to observe the day is by mixing your own pitcher at home. A classic recipe involves a bottle of dry red wine (like a Rioja or Garnacha), chopped fruits such as oranges and apples, a splash of brandy or orange liqueur, and a bit of sugar or syrup. Let the mixture sit in the refrigerator for several hours to allow the flavors to meld before topping it with soda water for fizz just before serving. Since the holiday falls in December, you might try a “winter sangria” using cranberries, pomegranates, and rosemary.

If you prefer to go out, visit a local Spanish tapas bar or restaurant. Many establishments offer special pricing or tasting flights on this date. Pairing a glass of sangria with traditional dishes like patatas bravas, jamón ibérico, or gambas al ajillo enhances the experience. It is also a great excuse to host a holiday party where guests bring different fruits or wines to create a “sangria bar,” allowing everyone to customize their own glass.

• Mix a pitcher of red wine sangria with seasonal winter fruits.
• Visit a Spanish restaurant to try their house blend.
• Experiment with a white wine or sparkling Cava version.
• Host a tapas night with friends and family.
• Share your unique recipe or photos on social media.

National Sangria Day Dates Table