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National Rum Day

August 16 All day

Mojito cocktail with lime slices and mint outdoors on wooden table with nature background

National Rum Day

National Rum Day is celebrated annually on August 16th. This day is dedicated to the celebration of rum, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugarcane byproducts, such as molasses or sugarcane juice, by a process of fermentation and distillation. Rum has a rich history, especially in the Caribbean, Latin America, and the United States, where it played a significant role in trade and culture.

What Countries Celebrate National Rum Day

National Rum Day is primarily celebrated in the United States. However, given rum’s rich history and cultural significance, it’s also informally acknowledged in several other countries, especially those with strong rum traditions. Here are a few places where National Rum Day or similar celebrations might be observed:

  1. United States: As the main country recognising National Rum Day, various events, promotions, and tastings are held in bars, restaurants, and distilleries across the nation.
  2. Caribbean Countries: Although not officially recognised as National Rum Day, many Caribbean nations like Jamaica, Barbados, and Puerto Rico celebrate rum in various forms throughout the year due to its cultural and historical importance.
  3. Cuba: Known for its rich rum-making tradition, Cuba has various celebrations and festivals that highlight rum, even if they don’t specifically align with National Rum Day.
  4. United Kingdom: The UK has a growing interest in rum, and while it may not have a formally recognised National Rum Day, rum tastings and events are becoming more popular.
  5. Latin American Countries: Countries like the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and others with significant rum production also celebrate the spirit through various festivals and cultural events.

While National Rum Day is specifically an American observance, the love for rum is widespread, and many countries with a tradition of rum production have their own ways of celebrating this beloved spirit.

How To Celebrate National Rum Day

Celebrating National Rum Day can be a fun and enjoyable experience. Here are some ideas on how to celebrate:

Tasting and Exploring Rum

  1. Rum Tasting: Organise a rum tasting event at home or visit a local bar or distillery. Sample different types of rum, including light, dark, spiced, and flavoured varieties.
  2. Rum Flight: Create a rum flight with a selection of rums from different regions, such as the Caribbean, Latin America, and the United States. Compare their flavours and learn about their unique production processes.

Cocktail Making

  1. Classic Cocktails: Make classic rum cocktails like Mojitos, Daiquiris, PiƱa Coladas, Mai Tai’s, or Dark ‘n’ Stormys. Experiment with different recipes and garnishes.
  2. Signature Drink: Create your own signature rum cocktail using your favorite ingredients. Share the recipe with friends and family.

Cooking with Rum

  1. Rum-infused Dishes: Cook dishes that incorporate rum, such as rum-glazed shrimp, rum-soaked ribs, or rum chicken. Use rum in marinades, sauces, and glazes to add a unique flavour.
  2. Desserts: Bake or prepare desserts featuring rum, like rum cake, rum balls, or bananas foster.

Learning and Exploring

  1. History of Rum: Spend some time learning about the history of rum, its origins, and its significance in various cultures. Watch documentaries or read articles and books on the topic.
  2. Distillery Tours: Visit a local distillery that produces rum. Take a tour to learn about the production process and the different types of rum they make.

Social and Festive Activities

  1. Rum Party: Host a rum-themed party with friends and family. Decorate with a tropical or pirate theme, play Caribbean music, and serve a variety of rum drinks and dishes.
  2. Virtual Celebration: If you can’t gather in person, organise a virtual rum tasting or cocktail-making session with friends and family. Share recipes and enjoy each other’s company online.
  3. Mixology Class: Attend a mixology class focused on rum cocktails. Many bars and restaurants offer classes where you can learn from professional bartenders.

Responsible Enjoyment

  1. Designate a Driver: If you plan to celebrate with friends and drink rum, make sure to have a designated driver or use ride-sharing services to ensure everyone gets home safely.
  2. Moderation: Enjoy rum responsibly. Pace yourself and make sure to have food and non-alcoholic beverages available.

Giving Back

  1. Support Local Distilleries: Purchase rum from local distilleries to support small businesses in your area.
  2. Charity Events: Participate in or organise events that donate a portion of proceeds to charity, combining celebration with a good cause.

No matter how you choose to celebrate National Rum Day, the key is to enjoy the spirit responsibly and appreciate the rich history and diversity of rum. Cheers!

National Rum Day Products

If you’re looking to celebrate National Rum Day in style then take a look at some of the amazing rum related products below and spoil yourself.

CleanCo R (Rum Alternative)

If you are looking to celebrate National Rum Day but can’t drink alcohol then we have just the thing for you! CleanCo R is a non-alcoholic version of Spiced Caribbean Rum which is sure to hit the spot. It can be drunk, used in recipes and the bottle looks amazing. It’s the perfect National Rum Day addition.

John Paul Jones Rum

John Paul Jones Rum offer some of the best rum on the market. Every single on of their bottles is filled with refreshing, flavourful and unique rum each with their own story and inspiration. The team at John Paul Jones Rum know exactly what they’re doing and it shows with every sip.

John Paul Jones Rum

Discarded Banana Peel Rum

This discarded banana peel rum is the ideal rum to enjoy on Rum Day if you’re looking for a rum with a difference. Discarded Spirits use discarded food that other people wouldn’t have a clue what to do with and turn it into something amazing. Their rum is flavourful and something to be desired.

Perfect for sustainable sipping, our Discarded Banana Peel Rum is where we turn an icon of waste into an icon of taste!

National Rum Day Recipes