When is National Pina Colada Day? This sweet tropical rum nectar is celebrated on July 10th
What is National Pina Colada Day? The phrase Pina Colada translates to “strained pineapple.” Which is fitting, seeing that a pina colada is made up of cream of coconut, pineapple juice, and rum — (usually) blended or shaken with ice. Pineapple and rum have been served together since rum’s inception, while the first mention of coconut being added didn’t show up until the 20th century in San Juan. Though there are tales of its pirate origin in earlier times off the Puerto Rican shores. Plenty of people claim to be the creators of the Pina Colada and no one really knows who’s right. Either way, we’re very thankful the drink exists!
Fun Facts about National Pina Colada Day! As the modern lore would tell us, the Pina Colada was (re)discovered in 1954 by a one Ricardo Garcia. Apparently, the Hilton, where he worked, ran out of a certain ingredient and Ricardo promptly served the drink in a pineapple instead of coconut shell. The concoction was an instant hit and thus the Pina Colada was rebirthed for humankind’s enjoyment.
How to (safely!) celebrate National Pina Colada Day: A pina colada can be enjoyed nearly anywhere with anyone. There are two ideal pictures often associated with this refreshing mixture, the first is one of shore line and palm trees. The second is a Caribbean cruise. But even if you don’t find yourself starring off into the sea or floating atop of one, you can still properly enjoy a pina colada at home or out with friends.
To help you get started here are two recipes:
A standard pina colada consists of 1 ½ cup of ice
½ cup of diced frozen pineapples
2 ounces of pineapple juice
2 ounces Coco Lopez coconut cream
1 ½ ounces of white rum
1 ounce dark rum
and pineapple slices
The Tropics by Storm pina colada consists of 2 cups of pineapple juice
2 cups of orange juice
1 cup of white rum
¾ cup of high-proof dark rum
3 tablespoons Campari
orange wedges and maraschino cherries for garnish.
For further help, there’s always YouTube to help walk you through any pina colada creation!
What is the hashtag for National Pina Colada Day? Share your pina colada adventures at #NationalPinaColadaDay