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National Eggnog Day

Celebrate National Eggnog Day with friends and family! Enjoy the creamy, festive treat with a twist of holiday cheer.

Thursday

December 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEDecember 24

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYSoft Drinks

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to get festive and celebrate National Eggnog Day on December 24! This day has been celebrated for many years as a way to enjoy the holiday season with friends and family. Eggnog is believed to have originated in Europe, where it was originally made from brandy, sherry or wine mixed with eggs and cream. Today there are many variations of this classic winter drink including versions that are dairy-free, vegan-friendly, low sugar or even spiked with spirits like rum or whiskey. So grab your favorite eggnog recipe and let the celebrations begin!

TIMELINE

National Eggnog Day Timeline

Eggnog in America

Jamestown settlers in Virginia are believed to have consumed Eggnog, using ingredients available to them like milk, eggs, and sherry.

George Washington's Recipe

First U.S. President George Washington had his own eggnog recipe that included rye whiskey, rum, and sherry.

The Eggnog Riot

The Eggnog Riot occurred at the United States Military Academy in West Point when cadets smuggled in whiskey to make eggnog for a Christmas celebration.

Eggnog Traditions

Drinking eggnog during holiday celebrations became a popular tradition in the United States, especially on Christmas Eve.

Commercialized Eggnog

Supermarkets began selling ready-made eggnog which also boosted the drink's popularity and accessibility.

Vegan Eggnog

Introduction of vegan and dairy-free versions of eggnog catered to those with dietary restrictions, making the delightful beverage accessible to everyone.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Eggnog Day

Create your own eggnog recipe

Mix up your own batch of homemade eggnog with eggs, cream, sugar, spices and a splash of brandy or rum. Get creative with your ingredients for the perfect holiday treat.

BAKE

Bake eggnog goodies

Try out a few eggnog recipes like cookies, muffins or cupcakes to get into the holiday spirit. Or surprise your friends with a festive eggnog cake.

HOST

Host an eggnog tasting party

Invite some friends over for an evening of taste testing different brands of eggnog and rating them on flavor. You can even make up awards like “Best Spice Mix” or “Most Authentic Taste”.

MAKE

Make an eggnog latte

Brew some coffee, add in a shot of steamed eggnog and top it with a sprinkle of nutmeg for a delicious drink that will warm you up this winter.

Go ice skating

Bundle up and go ice skating while sipping warm eggnog to really get into the holiday spirit.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Eggnog Day

It's packed with vitamins and minerals

Contrary to popular belief, eggnog isn't just sugar and cream. It's actually made from eggs, which contain essential nutrients such as Vitamin D, Iron, and zinc making it a great alternative to other sugary drinks during the holidays.

Eggnog is a holiday classic

Nothing screams "holiday season" like a glass of creamy eggnog. Whether you opt for the original dairy version or vegan alternatives, this sweet treat has been a beloved staple in households worldwide during the festive period.

It can be used in all sorts of recipes

Not only can eggnog be enjoyed on its own, it can also be used in all sorts of recipes. From eggnog French toast and pancakes to bread pudding and martinis, there are so many different ways to enjoy this sweet seasonal favorite!