Imagine stepping back into the roaring 1920s, a time of jazz, flappers, and, of course, the birth of some of the most iconic cocktails. Among these, the Black Cow stands out, a concoction that blends vodka, milk, and chocolate syrup into a drink that's as intriguing as its history. National Black Cow Day, celebrated every June 10th, pays homage to this unique cocktail, but how did this day come to be, and why does it deserve a spot on our calendars? The origins of the Black Cow cocktail itself are shrouded in mystery, with tales of its creation ranging from the bustling streets of San Francisco to the glamorous halls of the Savoy-Plaza Hotel in New York City. Despite the foggy details of its inception, there's no denying the Black Cow's place in cocktail lore. Fast forward to the 21st century, and we find the International Cocktail Database marking June 10th as a day to celebrate this creamy, chocolatey delight. But was it just a clever marketing ploy, or is there more to this day than meets the eye? As we raise our glasses to National Black Cow Day, let's delve into the spirited history of this lesser-known holiday and the timeless drink it honors.
Key Takeaway
Timeline
Day Activities
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Kick off National Black Cow Day by mixing up your very own Black Cow cocktail. Grab some vodka, milk, and chocolate syrup, and shake things up. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a newbie behind the bar, this day's all about celebrating the rich, creamy goodness of this classic concoction.
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Spread the cheer on social media. Snap a pic of your masterpiece or a selfie with your drink in hand and share it with the world. Use hashtags like #NationalBlackCowDay to connect with fellow enthusiasts. It's a fantastic way to see how others are marking the occasion and maybe even snag a few new recipes to try.
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Hit up local spots that are getting in on the action with special deals or themed menus. Supporting local businesses while savoring a delicious Black Cow cocktail? Now, that's a win-win. Plus, it's a great excuse to gather friends or family for a night out, exploring the unique takes on this beloved beverage.
Why We Love This Day
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Celebrating a unique cocktail tradition: National Black Cow Day on June 10 gives everyone a fantastic excuse to indulge in a classic drink that combines vodka, milk, and chocolate syrup. This quirky holiday honors a cocktail with a rich history, believed to have originated in the United States around the 1920s. Whether its creation took place in San Francisco's Black Hawk Restaurant or New York City's Savoy-Plaza Hotel remains a mystery, but its deliciousness is undeniable.
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A day for cocktail enthusiasts and foodies: Since its establishment by the International Cocktail Database in 2009, National Black Cow Day has been a hit among those who appreciate a good drink and a bit of culinary history. Bars and restaurants often jump on board with special deals and promotions, making it the perfect time for fans of vodka, milk, and chocolate to explore new variations of their favorite cocktail. Sharing photos and recipes on social media has become a popular way to celebrate, spreading the joy of this unique concoction far and wide.
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An excuse to try something new: Not only does National Black Cow Day celebrate the history and flavor of the Black Cow cocktail, but it also encourages folks to step out of their comfort zones and try something different. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail aficionado or someone who's curious about mixing up their drink routine, June 10 offers a splendid opportunity to raise a glass to innovation, tradition, and the simple pleasure of enjoying a well-made drink.
Past & Future Dates
| Month | Day | Year |
|---|---|---|
| JUNE | 10 | 2022 |
| JUNE | 10 | 2023 |
| JUNE | 10 | 2024 |
| JUNE | 10 | 2025 |
| JUNE | 10 | 2026 |
| JUNE | 10 | 2027 |
| JUNE | 10 | 2028 |
FAQ
Where did the term "black cow" come from?
Wisner, owner of Colorado's Cripple Creek Brewing, created the drink after realizing that the snowy peaks on Colorado's Cow Mountain reminded him of ice cream floating in soda. He combined root beer and vanilla ice cream, and called it the “Black Cow”, or more popularly known today as a root beer float.
What national day is on June 10th?
What is the difference between a black cow and a brown cow drink?
The difference between a black cow and a brown cow drink primarily hinges on the ice cream flavor and sometimes, the soda used. A black cow usually features vanilla ice cream with root beer, whereas a brown cow is often made with chocolate ice cream. However, the twist comes when cola steps in for root beer, turning both into fizzy delights with a different base.
What is a black cow ice cream?
A Black Cow is delightfully simple, a concoction of soda (traditionally Coca-Cola) and vanilla ice cream. While many might refer to it as a root beer float or an ice cream soda, it goes by 'Spider' in New Zealand and Australia, and the UK prefers calling it a coke float.