National Cocktail Day Recipes

Let's be honest — most these "National Whatever Day" holidays are deeply unserious. I genuinely don't know (or care!) where most come from, assuming they were created by industry trade groups to give their PR reps an excuse to bombard editors and writers with story "ideas" about promoting their product. National Cocktail Day is different.

Celebrated on March 24, it's the same in many respects. But I separate it from the rest of the ilk because it's broad enough and accessible enough to actually participate. And it's something you can actually partake in, with other people. 

Like, I'm sorry, but nobody participates in "National Dentists Day" in early March unless they're in the industry (or a masochist). I'll give you a pass if your dentist runs some sort of discount, but otherwise, sit down.

National Oreo Cookie Day? Absolutely a corporate scam. National Hug Your Dog Day? National French Bread Day? You sound unwell.

National Cocktail Day may be similarly goofy. My job certainly isn't giving us the day off, daycare is open, and if you mention it to the average person without a drinking problem, they'll look at you sideways.

But here's the thing — I have a list of cocktails burning a hole in my pocket. Things I've said I want to make. Whole cocktail recipe books on my shelf that I've yet to crack open and try. (Specifically, Shannon Mustipher's Tiki: Modern Tropical Cocktails.)

And the reality is, while I feel like a pretty decent home cook at this point, you do not want me making you a cocktail unless I'm following a recipe to a tee. I'm well below the threshold for improvising.

If — like me — this is your excuse to become a more competent home bartender, you're welcome.

Here are 24 to choose from (since the "holiday" is March 24). They're a pretty wide range of options, because depending where you live, late March may be decently warm out or still feel like the depths of winter. Regardless what you're in the mood for or what kind of liquor you prefer, you can find a decent option here.

I'm probably going to start with a martini in honor of my uncle, because it's his favorite drink and National Cocktail Day falls on his birthday. You should have no trouble finding one (or more!) that suits you as well.

Tip: Try these Easter brunch cocktails for the upcoming holiday! Or use our guide to ordering mocktails at a bar if you want something nonalcoholic but still want to celebrate.