National Mixology Day June 10th

National Mixology Day June 10

Who knew science and art could come together in a glass? National Mixology Day on June 10 celebrates the creativity, precision and flair behind mixing drinks. This isn’t just about tossing liquor into a shaker. It’s history, culture, and chemistry all stirred into one. Bartenders—better yet, mixologists—craft drinks the way painters handle color. Behind every famous cocktail is a backstory full of trial, error and maybe a few hangovers. Whether you’re into a classic Old Fashioned, a tangy Margarita or something weird with smoke and rosemary, there’s a world of flavor waiting. Honestly, who doesn’t want an excuse to toast history with a well-balanced drink?

Key Takeaway

National Mixology Day honors the skill and tradition behind creating craft cocktails and innovative drink recipes.

It highlights the creativity and history of bartending as both a service and an art form.

Timeline

1806
First Use of ‘Cocktail’
The term ‘cocktail’ appears in a New York newspaper, described as a stimulating liquor composed of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters.
1862
First Bartending Guide
Jerry Thomas publishes *How to Mix Drinks*, the first known cocktail book, setting standards for mixology.
1920
Prohibition Begins
The U.S. bans alcohol sales, leading to speakeasies and creative cocktail recipes using lower-quality liquor.
1933
Prohibition Ends
Alcohol becomes legal again, reviving the bar scene and legitimizing bartending once more.
2004
Modern Cocktail Renaissance
A surge in interest leads to craft cocktail bars, historical revivals and a rise in bartender prestige.
2017
First National Mixology Day
The day is created to recognize mixology as a blend of tradition, technique and imagination.

Day Activities

  1. Try mixing a new cocktail at home—something classic like a Negroni or something wild with unexpected ingredients.
  2. Visit a local bar known for creative drinks and ask the bartender for their signature creation.
  3. Host a friendly tasting party where guests each bring their own homemade concoction for others to rate.

Interesting Facts

1. Cocktail Definition

The earliest printed definition was in 1806—spirits, sugar, water and bitters.

2. Jerry Thomas's Legacy

Often called the “father of mixology,” Jerry Thomas set global cocktail standards.

3. The Martini Mystery

No one knows exactly where the Martini came from—some say San Francisco, others New York.

4. Ice Was a Game-Changer

In the 19th century, better access to ice totally changed drink recipes.

5. Speakeasies Were Labs

During Prohibition, hidden bars became hotspots for experimental cocktails.

Why We Love This Day

  • Mixology connects history and creativity. Every cocktail has a backstory, from ancient punch recipes to 1920s speakeasies. It’s like drinking your way through time—one sip at a time.

  • It’s a toast to the makers. Bartenders often double as chemists and entertainers. National Mixology Day gives them the spotlight they rarely get but absolutely deserve.

  • Home mixologists get a reason to play. Whether you're a hobbyist or just experimenting, this day is all about trying something bold and flavorful without pressure.

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