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National Bartender Day

Raise a glass to National Bartender Day - show your appreciation for the hard work of your favorite bartenders with drinks, tips and kind words!

Friday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEFirst Friday in December

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCareers

SUBCATEGORYHospitality

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to raise your glasses and celebrate National Bartender Day on the first Friday of December! This day celebrates the hardworking bartenders all over the world, who have been crafting drinks for centuries. The history of bartending dates back to ancient Egypt, as it was believed that Pharaohs served their guests beer from behind a bar-like counter. Today, bartenders are still making delicious drinks and creating unique experiences for their customers. So let's give them a big round of applause and thank them for their hard work and dedication!

TIMELINE

National Bartender Day Timeline

Profession of Bartending Established

In the 1800s, bartending as a recognized profession in America came into existence, as bars and taverns became common fixtures in society.

First Mixology Book Published

The first book about mixology, "How to Mix Drinks: Or, The Bon Vivant's Companion", was written by bartender Jerry Thomas, which set a new standard for bartending.

Prohibition Era

During the Prohibition era, bartenders still managed to keep their craft alive while being under tight regulation and censorship by the government.

Golden Age of Cocktails

The 1970s marked the rise of cocktail culture, with bartenders experimenting with a variety of ingredients and techniques to make innovative and exciting drink creations.

First World Class Competition

In 2008, World Class, the world’s biggest and most prestigious cocktail competition, was held for the first time, highlighting the art cocktail crafting.

First Celebration of National Bartender Day

The first National Bartender Day was celebrated in 2017 on the first Friday of December, in appreciation of all bartenders worldwide.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Bartender Day

Create a signature cocktail

Mix up your own signature cocktail to celebrate National Bartender Day. It can be something simple like vodka and cranberry or something more complicated with multiple ingredients. Serve it up to your friends and family and enjoy!

VISIT

Visit a speakeasy

Speakeasies are making a comeback, and many of them feature some of the best bartenders in the country. Visit one of these establishments for a unique and special experience.

ATTEND

Attend a mixology class

Learn how to make craft cocktails and impress your friends. Many local bars, restaurants, and spirits companies offer classes in mixology. Pick up a few tips from the experts.

HOST

Host a bartending competition

Gather your friends together and have a bartending competition to see who can make the best drinks. Set up some rules, such as no pre-made mixes or ingredients, or whatever you prefer.

DRINK

Drink responsibly

Of course, National Bartender Day is also about celebrating all of the amazing bartenders out there, so remember to drink responsibly and tip your bartender.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Bartender Day is Important

Bartenders promote responsible drinking habits

Not only do bartenders help keep order in bars and pubs, but they also play an important role in promoting responsible drinking habits. Trained to serve customers drinks responsibly and safely, National Bartender Day gives us the opportunity to recognize their efforts in helping guests have a safe, fun time while out with friends or attending social events.

Bartenders bring people together

A good bartender has the power to turn a night out from just a regular outing into an unforgettable experience. They have a special talent for creating an atmosphere where people can enjoy each other's company and make new friends. Celebrating National Bartender Day is a great way to recognize the hard work and dedication that bartenders put into their craft.

Bartenders know their craft

Behind every great bar is a well-trained, knowledgeable, and passionate bartending staff. Becoming an expert in mixology takes years of practice and perfecting recipes - all skills that are essential to providing seamless service. By celebrating National Bartender Day, we honor the expertise of these professionals and provide them with the recognition they deserve.