World Paloma Day Date in the current year: May 22, 2024

The paloma is a cocktail consisting of tequila, grapefruit-flavored soda, and lime juice. It is believed to have originated in the mid-20th century, when grapefruit soda became widely available in Mexico. It is unclear who was the first to mix tequila with grapefruit soda and add lime and decided to name the new drink “paloma”, which is Spanish for “dove”. Some claim that the drink was invented by Don Javier Delgado Corona, creator of the batanga, but this version is unsubstantiated.

The paloma is a fruity, refreshing cocktail perfect for BBQs, pool parties, beach vacations, outdoor wedding receptions, and other summertime events. The most simple variation of the cocktail consists of just two ingredients, tequila and grapefruit soda such as Fresca, Jarritos, or Squirt. Lime juice and a pinch of salt are often added for extra flavor.

The paloma is one of the IBA (International Bartenders Association) official cocktails. It is listed as one of the so-called new era drinks. According to the IBA specified recipe, the paloma is made by pouring 50 ml tequila in a highball glass and squeezing some fresh lime juice into the tequila. Then ice and a pinch of salt are added into the glass, and 100 ml pink grapefruit soda is poured over ice. The drink is stirred gently before serving and served with a lime wedge and (optionally) salt on the rim of the glass.

Alternatively, a mix of fresh red or white grapefruit juice and club soda can substitute for grapefruit-flavored soda. A more complex variation of the paloma named the cantarito can contain agave, lemon juice and orange juice in addition to lime juice. Instead of a highball glass, it is served in a special clay pottery cup known as a jarrito (“little jug”) that helps to keep the cocktail cold.

World Paloma Day was created by Cenote Tequila in 2019 to celebrate Mexico’s signature drink and, of course, to popularize its products. The next year, other tequila brands joined the celebration, jumping at the chance to promote themselves.

The best way to celebrate this holiday is to treat yourself to a refreshing cocktail. Everything tastes better when shared with your loved ones, so we recommend to make a pitcher of paloma and invite your friends over for a Mexican-themed cocktail party. And don’t forget to spread the word about the holiday by posting about it on social media with the hashtag #WorldPalomaDay.

World Paloma Day isn’t the only holiday celebrating a mixed drink. For example, the United States has a plethora of unofficial cocktail-themed observances such as National Bloody Mary Day (January 1), National Brandy Alexander Day (January 31), National Margarita Day (February 22), National Mimosa Day (May 16), National Mint Julep Day (May 30), National Piña Colada Day (July 10), and National Daiquiri Day (July 19).