national-pina-colada-day-july-10

National Pina Colada Day July 10

Have you ever paused to wonder about the origins of National Piña Colada Day on July 10th? This tropical cocktail, a blend of pineapple, coconut milk, and rum, has its roots tangled in the rich history of the Caribbean, particularly Puerto Rico. Despite its widespread popularity, the exact birthplace and creator of the Piña Colada remain shrouded in mystery, with records dating back to the 1800s or early 1900s. While the first mention of a similar drink appeared in 1922, it wasn't until 1954 that a recipe resembling today's beloved cocktail was documented. The inception of National Piña Colada Day itself is equally enigmatic, with some attributing its celebration to 1977, when the drink was allegedly declared Puerto Rico's official beverage. Yet, without concrete evidence, the true story behind this day is as elusive as the cocktail's origins. Nonetheless, National Piña Colada Day has become a cherished occasion to savor the summer vibes and indulge in the sweet, tropical flavors that define this iconic drink.

Key Takeaway

The exact origin of the Pina Colada is unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the Caribbean, specifically in Puerto Rico, in the 1800s or early 1900s.
The first documented recipe for a Pina Colada appeared in a 1954 edition of “Bartender’s Guide” by Donn Beach, who claimed to have first tasted the drink in Puerto Rico in the late 1930s. The origin of National Pina Colada Day on July 10th is unknown, but it is a fun way to celebrate the tropical flavors of the cocktail.

Timeline

1954
The Birth of the Piña Colada
Ramón ‘Monchito’ Marrero Pérez, a bartender at the Caribe Hilton’s Beachcomber Bar in San Juan, Puerto Rico, first mixed the Piña Colada.
1978
Piña Colada Becomes Puerto Rico’s Official Drink
The Piña Colada was declared the official beverage of Puerto Rico.
1984
National Piña Colada Day Established
The exact origin of National Piña Colada Day is unclear, but it has been celebrated on July 10 since at least 1984.
2004
50th Anniversary of Piña Colada
The Caribe Hilton celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Piña Colada, claiming that it was the birthplace of the iconic drink.

Day Activities

  1. Kick off National Piña Colada Day with a bang by hosting a DIY cocktail-making session. Gather friends or family and lay out all the essentials: fresh pineapples, coconut milk, rum, and ice. Don't forget the blender! It's a hands-on way to dive into the holiday spirit, blending up your own tropical concoction. As everyone sips on their creations, share fun facts about the drink's murky history, sparking lively debates and laughter.

  2. For those who love a good challenge, why not organize a Piña Colada scavenger hunt? Hide ingredients around your home or garden, each with a clue leading to the next. Participants will race against the clock, piecing together hints to find the hidden treasures. Once all ingredients are collected, the final task is to craft the perfect Piña Colada. It's a fantastic method to combine teamwork, problem-solving, and the joy of crafting a delicious reward.

  3. Cap off the day with a tropical-themed movie night under the stars. Set up a cozy outdoor cinema with blankets, pillows, and string lights for ambiance. Screen classics that evoke the essence of summer and adventure, like "Moana" or "Pirates of the Caribbean." With a freshly made Piña Colada in hand, it's the perfect way to unwind and soak in the balmy night air, celebrating the spirit of National Piña Colada Day in style.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrates Tropical Flavors
    Who doesn't love a reason to sip on something sweet and tropical? National Pina Colada Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in this delicious blend of pineapple, coconut milk, and rum. It's like a mini vacation in a glass, offering a taste of the Caribbean no matter where you are. This day reminds us to slow down, savor the flavors, and maybe even dream a little about our next beach getaway.

  • Honors Caribbean Culture
    This day isn't just about enjoying a tasty drink; it's also a nod to the rich Caribbean culture and its influence on global cuisine and beverages. The Pina Colada's roots in Puerto Rico highlight the region's vibrant history and its contributions to the world of cocktails. Celebrating National Pina Colada Day is a way to appreciate these cultural gems and the stories behind them, making every sip a little more meaningful.

  • Encourages Creativity in Mixology
    For enthusiasts and professionals in the world of mixology, National Pina Colada Day serves as an inspiration to get creative with cocktails. It's a day when bartenders and home mixologists alike can experiment with variations of the classic Pina Colada, adding their own twist or discovering new combinations that pay homage to the original. Whether it's through a modern interpretation or a faithful recreation, this day sparks innovation and celebrates the art of cocktail making.

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
JULY 10 2022
JULY 10 2023
JULY 10 2024
JULY 10 2025
JULY 10 2026
JULY 10 2027
JULY 10 2028

FAQ

Is there a National Piña Colada Day?

July 10 recognizes a sweet, rum-based cocktail on National Pina Colada Day. Today, we are anxiously waiting for the end of the work day to enjoy the cream of coconut and pineapple juice with a dash of run cocktail.

What does Piña Colada stand for?

Piña colada is the Spanish term for “strained pineapple.” The general formula for a piña colada is one part rum, one part pineapple, and a half part coconut.

Which country national drink is Piña Colada?

If you like piña colada, you should know the famous tropical drink was invented in Puerto Rico! The sweet mix of coconut cream, pineapple juice, white rum, and ice was born in San Juan, but the identity of its creator is still an unresolved controversy on the Island.

What bar invented the Piña Colada?

Ramón 'Monchito' Marrero Pérez claims to have first made it at the Caribe Hilton Hotel's Beachcomber Bar in San Juan on 15th August 1952 (the Caribe Hilton say 1954), using the then newly available Coco López cream of coconut.