Every February 22, we unite to celebrate National Margarita Day, raising a glass to honor our beloved festive cocktail. Crafted in 1938 in Mexico, the margarita, composed of triple sec, tequila, and lime juice, has earned its reputation as the quintessential drink for good times.
The notion that it is always 5 o’clock somewhere holds particularly true on National Margarita Day. Whether you prefer it shaken, blended in a frozen margarita machine, or served on the rocks, there is no wrong way to enjoy this classic concoction. So, grab a shaker, dust off your frozen margarita machine, or visit your local watering hole to savor a margarita in style. Cheers!
History of the Margarita
The Margarita was named drink of the month in the December 1953 issue of Esquire Magazine. Somewhere between 5 and 15 years after the drink was invented depending on which story you believe.
The origin of the iconic cocktail dates back to 1938 when Carlos “Danny” Herrera, the father of the drink, concocted it in his Baja California restaurant. The inspiration came from a famous customer, Marjorie King, a dancer from the renowned Broadway production “Ziegfeld Follies.” King was allergic to spirits but not to tequila, leading to the creation of our beloved margarita.
However, Herrera is not the sole claimant to the title of the original margarita maker. Another contender is Francisco “Pancho” Morales, a bartender in Mexico. He mixed the cocktail in 1942 in Juárez, Mexico, before leaving to become a US citizen and work as a milkman for 25 years. Morales is supported by the official Mexican newspaper, Notimex.
The most intriguing tale involves Margarita Sames, an affluent Dallas resident. She believed she crafted the drink in her Acapulco vacation home in 1948. Tommy Hilton, a friend of Margarita and part of the Hilton hotel chain, attended the party and added the cocktail to the hotel menu. However, Jose Cuervo, the famous tequila brand, claimed to have run ad campaigns for the drink in 1945, using the catchphrase, “Margarita: It’s more than a girl’s name.” Regardless of its origin, one thing is certain — everyone was enjoying themselves.
76% of Americans love their Margaritas
Fortunately, margaritas offer a myriad of variations, explaining why 76% of Americans savor this delightful drink. From strawberry and peach to mango and berry, or even with added beer for a stronger kick, the possibilities are endless. Health-conscious options like skinny margaritas and sporty cocktails (swap triple sec for Gatorade) are also available. Whether you are at a bar, relaxing at home, or just concluding a crucial meeting, grab some fruit, tequila, triple sec, and mix up the perfect margarita to the rhythm of “one tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor.” Always remember to drink responsibly; too much tequila has been known to T’kill’ya! 😊
Things to do on National Margarita Day
Margarita’s all night long! – Celebrate with Margarita night! You only need 3 ingredients: Tequila, lime, and orange liqueur. Of course, do not forget the ice, kosher salt, and shaker for a classic Margarita. Looking for a twist on the classic? Add just about any fruit and some vegetables for a new taste. Everything from favorite Strawberry to spicy jalapeno can be added to the classic recipe. Prefer your margarita frozen? Add ice to a large blender and crush the ice and add your favorite ingredients.
Hit your local Mexican restaurant – Tacos and Margaritas are sure to hit the spot. Invite family and friends to join you for a taco party.
Host a tequilla tasting party – Invite friends over and ask them to bring a bottle of tequila. Make sure everyone is bringing a different brand. Make margaritas with the different brands and see which one you like the best. You may just find a new favorite.
On the rocks or blended? – Try it both ways! Over two-thirds of people asked said they prefer a frozen Margarita. A frozen (blended) Margarita is like a slush but with a kick. On the rocks is all liquid with ice cubes to chew at the end. May take a few tries to decide your favorite.
The abundance of tequila options, a diverse array of fruits, and various sweeteners present exciting possibilities for the creation of novel margarita flavors. Anticipate being pleasantly surprised and delighted as you embark on countless happy hours, exploring the endless combinations that this versatile cocktail has to offer.
Did you know that Tequila can only come from Mexico?
Mexican law states that tequila must contain at least 51% liquor distilled from the nectar of blue agave. The plan is grown primarily in Jalisco, Mexico. There are 4 other Mexican state that are also allowed to legally produce tequila. The U.S. honors this Mexican law and why local distilleries do not produce or bottle tequila.
