National Mint Julep Day
National Mint Julep Day:
The ‘National Mint Julep Day’ celebrates the savoring alcoholic beverage made using mint leaves, bourbon, sugar, and water on the 30th of May each year. It is a traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby, and on this day, people around the country come together for this refreshing ‘Mint Julep.’
| Year | Date | Day | Where |
| 2023 | 30th May | Tuesday | United States |
| 2023 | 30th May | Thursday | United States |
| 2025 | 30th May | Friday | United States |
Twitter Hashtags:
#NationalMintJulepDay
#MintJulepDay
Related: Other National Days Celebrated on May 30th:
National Hole in My Bucket Day
Why National Mint Julep Day?
This refreshing minty drink was originally curated in Kentucky Derby in the 1930s, and since then, it has become the official drink of the event. The ingredients of this drink are similar to that of the Mojito, but here, the alcohol is replaced with bourbon giving it its signature southern hospitality cocktail. We can understand that this is a comfort drink during the summers for the people around the country.
The term ‘Julep’ signifies a sweet drink. So, each year people around the country come together for a toast of this iconic ‘Mint Julep.’ Mint julep is literally the best definition for ‘cocktail in a glass. This Mint Julep southern classic is a traditional drink of the Kentucky Derby.
There are also numerous theories as to how this drink was actually curated. Some say that the mint julep came into being when a man was searching for water near the Mississippi to add to his bourbon. He then supposedly saw mint growing in the wild and decided to drop a few leaves into his drink. Another theory states that the julep is a variation on an ancient Arabic drink called the julab, which featured rose petals and the theories go on and on. Well, these are just mere theories. We are here to enjoy the drink.
Known to be a local drink of the southerners, the drink is said to have a universal appeal to it. So, northerners, cheers. Well, this drink is very simple to prepare at home as well. This classic drink is made out of four simple ingredients- mint leaves, bourbon, sugar, and water, and the celebration is called sitting at home. And the more chilled the drink, the better. Adding ice cubes is always a good idea.
This event is celebrated solely for the ‘Mint Julep,’ resulting in the selling out of approximately 120,000 mint juleps at the Kentucky Derby each year during the time of the event. Celebrating this event once a year can really give you that summer vibe, and you’re all set for the season. Well, if you are a fan of this cocktail, anytime is the right time to celebrate the ‘National Mint Julep Day.’
How can we observe National Mint Julep Day?
- Organize a get-together.
Gather all your friends and family and kick start the summer on this day, drinking the iconic ‘Mint Julep’, of course.
- Easy peezy minty squeezy.
The first and foremost way to observe this day is by making this iconic and refreshing drink at home using the ‘easy peezy’ ingredients- sugar, water, bourbon, and mint leaves. And serve chilled.
- Click and upload.
Show the world your beautifully made drink. Click and post it on your social handles using the #NationalJulepMintDay #JulepMintDay.
Interesting facts on National Mint Julep Day:
- This drink was said to first be mentioned in a London publication in 1803.
- Mint juleps were initially used to treat upset stomachs in the late 1700s.
- The world’s largest mint julep glass stands at six feet displayed by Churchill Downs.
- Approximately 120,000 mint juleps are sold at the Kentucky Derby each year during the time of the event.
- Gin-based julep has become popular among Americans.
History of National Mint Julep Day:
‘Mint Julep’ is said to have originated in the southern regions of the United States. This day is observed on the 30th of May every year, where the Kentucky Derby horse race witnesses around 120,000 of these delicious beverages served each year. The premium version of this drink is served in a gold-plated cup with a silver straw and costs $1000. This drink made its first appearance in print in the year 1803 and was written by John Davis. It is said that U.S. Senator Henry Clay of Kentucky introduced the drink at the Willard Hotel in Washington D.C. in 1850, and that recipe is still used to this day. Other versions of this drink can be made with peach brandy or cognac, but bourbon will always remain the OG version.
