National Horchata Day

National Horchata Day has been celebrated on September 24 since 2001. If you haven’t heard of horchata before, it’s time to join in and discover this unique drink. Traditionally, horchata is made from white rice soaked in water and flavored with almonds, cinnamon, sugar, and tiger nuts. The mixture is crushed and strained to separate the liquid from the solids.

History

Horchata is known for its smooth, milky texture and pleasant taste. There are many ways to enjoy horchata—plain, with milk, or flavored with coconut or vanilla. Nutritionists highlight the drink’s vitamin content and health benefits. While its roots are in Mexico, horchata is also extremely popular in the United States. According to some sources, the drink originated in West Africa, where it was known as “kuunu aya.”

Interesting Facts

• Horchata is considered one of the world’s oldest drinks; recipes date back to 2400 BC.
• Horchata arrived in Spain during the Muslim conquest.
• The Romans made a similar drink using barley instead of tiger nuts, believing barley had healing properties.
• In Mexico and Nigeria, horchata is believed to be an aphrodisiac.

How to Take Part

Share fun facts about horchata on social media and use the hashtag #NationalHorchataDay. There are many varieties of horchata—some sweet, some spicy—so pick your favorite or try several to find out which you like best. Look up recipes online, gather your ingredients, and try making horchata at home.

When is National Horchata Day in 2025?

National Horchata Day is observed on September 24 each year.

Observations