There is great debate about when and where the margarita originated. Some claim it was invented it in the mid 1930s, while others claim it was invented in the forties. Despite its uncertain history, there is no doubt that it is one of the most popular and well-known cocktails made today. In fact, several consumer reporting companies have stated that the margarita is the #1 most popular cocktail in the U.S. So, it is only natural that it should have its own celebration falling on Feb. 22 of each year: National Margarita Day.
According to the Patron website, National Margarita Day was founded around 2008 by commercial real estate agent Todd McCalla who wanted to “share his love of margaritas, and to promote a more sophisticated appreciation of the beverage.”
Margarita Day Deals in Gainesville
- Bahama Breeze – Buy 2, Get 2 Free
- Tijuana Flatts – Margaritas are $2
- Chuy’s – Happy hour prices all day and dollar floaters with every drink
- Miller’s Ale House – Margaritas are $2.22
Home Recipes
There’s nothing like a classic margarita, but sometimes it’s fun to switch things up. Use this recipe and try out different substitutions to find your perfect match.
Classic Margarita
- Tequila 1.5 oz
- Orange Liqueur 1 oz
- Lime Juice 1-1.5 oz
- Agave or Simple Syrup (optional) 0.5 oz
- Salt and lime wedge (optional)
Take a lime wedge and run it around the rim of a glass. Then, dip or roll the rim in a plate of salt. Add ice to a cocktail shaker or glass and then add the tequila, orange liquor, lime juice and agave or simple syrup to the shaker or glass. Combine. Pour the mixture into a glass and serve.
5 Variations To Try
- Aperol Margarita: replace the orange liqueur with Aperol and the lime wedge with an orange slice
- Blackberry Lemonade Margarita: use 2 oz of tequila, remove the agave or simple syrup and replace the lime wedge with a lemon wedge; add muddled blackberries to the glass with the ice, and add 4 oz of lemonade
- Watermelon Margarita: use 2 oz of tequila and add watermelon chunks; add the ingredients to a blender with some ice instead of using a shaker
- Spicy Margarita: add some sliced jalapeño or serrano peppers to the glass with the ice, and replace the salt with Tajín seasoning
- Pickle Margarita: try this pickle margarita recipe from Matthew McConaughey and Nick DiGiovanni on Instagram (this one isn’t for everyone, but let us know if you try it!)
This year, celebrate your favorite cocktail or decide to try the classic with a fresh twist. Whether you’re a margarita purist or like to try different types and flavors of margaritas, make today an opportunity to gather with friends and spend time making memories and appreciating this cocktail. As they say, when life gives you limes, make a margarita!
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