Hot Buttered Rum Day

Hot Buttered Rum Day is an annual American holiday dedicated to the classic warming drink, celebrated on January 17. Hot buttered rum has been enjoyed for centuries and remains a favorite way to warm up during the cold winter months.

History

Hot buttered rum is popular not only in America but also in Europe, where it is grouped with other traditional winter drinks like Mulled Wine and Hot Toddy. The drink’s American roots trace back to Jamaica, where rum production began in the 1660s. The hot buttered variation is believed to have emerged in the mid-18th century.

The classic recipe is straightforward: butter is melted with sugar and spices, then combined with rum to create a rich, aromatic beverage. The drink can be diluted with hot water if desired and is best enjoyed immediately while still warm.

Interesting Facts

• It takes about 10 kilograms of sugar cane to produce just one liter of rum.
• Rum was considered the drink of choice among pirates and was once known as “Barbados water.”
• After Admiral Horatio Nelson died at the Battle of Trafalgar, his crew reportedly preserved his body in a barrel of rum for the voyage home.

How to Take Part

Celebrate Hot Buttered Rum Day by preparing this cozy drink at home and sharing it with friends or family. Gather for a relaxing evening, exchange stories, and enjoy each other’s company.

Take the opportunity to read up on the history of rum, its varieties, and how it’s made. Don’t forget to share your Hot Buttered Rum Day experience on social media!

When is Hot Buttered Rum Day in 2026?

Hot Buttered Rum Day is observed on January 17 each year.

Observations