National Tequila Day

National Tequila Day is dedicated to one of the most iconic and beloved spirits in the United States—tequila, traditionally made from blue agave. With 24 hours (or nearly 86,400 seconds) in the day, you have plenty of time to learn all about this flavorful drink—but we don’t recommend using all of that time for tasting it!

History

The predecessor of tequila was a fermented drink called pulque, made from the agave plant. Pulque had a milky, foamy consistency and was first produced around 1000 BC by indigenous tribes in what is now Mexico. The drink we now call tequila originated in the 16th century in the region that would later be named Tequila.

Tequila production on an industrial scale began in the state of Jalisco about 70 years later, thanks to Spanish aristocrat Don Pedro Sánchez de Tagle. One of the most famous tequila brands, Vino Mezcal de Tequila de Jose Cuervo, was founded in 1795 and remains a leader in the industry today.

Interesting Facts

• In the United States, National Tequila Day is observed on July 24. In Mexico, a similar celebration occurs on the third Saturday of March.
• The blue agave plant takes 8 to 12 years to mature before it can be harvested for tequila production.
• Not all agave-based spirits are tequila—Sotol, for example, is made from a different desert plant and has a lighter, nuttier flavor.
• The United States is the largest importer of tequila worldwide.
• Harvesting agave requires a specialized blade called a coa de jima, used by skilled workers known as jimadors.

Holiday Traditions

National Tequila Day is a time to enjoy the variety of tequila—responsibly. Explore different types of tequila, create your own top-five favorites list, or invent a new cocktail recipe using tequila as the base. Many restaurants and bars offer special deals and events for the occasion, making it a perfect time to celebrate with friends.

When is National Tequila Day in 2025?

National Tequila Day is observed on July 24 each year.

Observations