National Mai Tai Day is celebrated each year on August 30, as drink fans and tiki devotees pay homage to America’s most iconic tropical cocktail: the Mai Tai. This day is dedicated to savoring the delightful flavors of a drink that has become synonymous with tiki culture and tropical relaxation.
The Birth of the Mai Tai
The Mai Tai was first introduced in August 1944 by tiki icon Trader Vic. According to liquid legend, Vic spontaneously created the experimental concoction for some friends at his Oakland restaurant. The original drink was comprised of 17-year-old Jamaican J. Wray Nephew rum, fresh lime, Orange Curacao from Holland, rock candy syrup, and a dollop of French Orgeat. The Trader shook this combination vigorously, poured it over shaved ice, and accented the glass with half a lime and fresh mint.
Upon tasting his creation, one of his guests exclaimed, “Mai Tai-Roa Aé.” In Tahitian, this translates to “out of this world—the best.” And thus, the Mai Tai was born.
The Rise to Fame
When Trader Vic was asked to create menus for the Royal Hawaiian, Moana, and Surfrider Hotels, he included the Mai Tai among his tiki offerings. The drink became a sensation and became one of the most popular—and most widely imitated—drinks of all time.
In recognition of Trader Vic’s historic contribution to cocktail culture, the City of Oakland officially declared August 30 Mai Tai Day on August 30, 2009. The formal proclamation touts the Mai Tai as the “quintessential tropical cocktail,” quoting the Oakland Tribune’s observation that the classic concoction “conjures universally positive images of retro-relaxation, portable Polynesia, a liberal lifestyle, multicultural mixology, exotic diversity, delicious creativity, and the friendly spirit of Aloha.” We couldn’t agree more.
Celebrating National Mai Tai Day
There are numerous ways to celebrate National Mai Tai Day. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
Make the Classic Mai Tai
Recreate Trader Vic’s original Mai Tai recipe at home. Use aged Jamaican rum, fresh lime juice, Orange Curacao, orgeat syrup, and simple syrup. Shake it all up, pour over shaved ice, and garnish with half a lime and a sprig of fresh mint.
Host a Tiki Party
Gather your friends for a tiki-themed party. Decorate with tropical decor, play Hawaiian music, and serve Mai Tais and other tiki cocktails.
Visit a Tiki Bar
Find a local tiki bar and enjoy a professionally made Mai Tai. Many bars will offer specials and events on National Mai Tai Day.
Learn the History
Dive into the fascinating history of tiki culture and the Mai Tai. Watch documentaries, read books, or explore online resources to learn more about Trader Vic and his contributions to mixology.
Experiment with Variations
Try different versions of the Mai Tai. Some variations include adding pineapple juice, dark rum float, or different types of citrus. Get creative and discover your favorite twist on this classic cocktail.
Did You Know?
- In Tahiti, Mai Tai is pronounced: “May Tay”. We’ve been saying it wrong for almost 80 years!
- The popularity of the Mai Tai was so immense that it was rumored to have depleted world rum supplies.
The Legacy of the Mai Tai
The Mai Tai, in its most authentic and simplest form, celebrates the rich flavors of Jamaican rum, complemented by just the right touch of lime, orgeat, orange curacao, and simple syrup. Over the years, its true origin has been disputed, but its status as a beloved classic cocktail remains undisputed.
On this National Mai Tai Day, ‘Tai’ one on and celebrate the legacy of this iconic drink. Whether you’re a seasoned tiki enthusiast or a casual cocktail fan, raise a glass to the Mai Tai and the spirit of Aloha it embodies. Cheers to National Mai Tai Day!
Quick Mai Tai Recipe
National Mai Tai Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate this iconic tropical cocktail with a twist. This year, elevate your Mai Tai game with a recipe that balances the fruity heat of Mango Habanero Barmalade with the smooth richness of Diplomático Planas and Pierre Ferrand Dry Curacao. Fresh lime juice adds a zesty kick, while orgeat syrup lends a touch of almond sweetness. After shaking the ingredients and straining over a large ice cube, top off your drink with a float of Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva for an extra layer of depth. Garnish with fresh mint for a refreshing finish. Whether you’re enjoying it poolside or at a summer gathering, this Mai Tai will impress. For more fantastic cocktail recipes, visit Barmalade’s recipes.
Enjoy your Mai Tai and celebrate in true tiki style!
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