Holiday on July 11, 2026: Roma Day is celebrated around the world
In 2026, World Rum Day falls on July 11. This is an unofficial international holiday celebrated annually on the second Saturday in July. On this day, rum producers, bartenders, and enthusiasts reflect on the drink’s history, discover new varieties, and host themed festivals, tastings, and educational events.
World Rum Day is a celebration of one of the world’s most famous alcoholic beverages. It is dedicated not only to rum itself but also to its centuries-old history, production traditions, and the cultures of various countries where this drink has become a true symbol.
Every year, distilleries, restaurants, bars, travel companies, and millions of rum lovers join in the celebration. For some, it’s an opportunity to try a new variety; for others, it’s a chance to learn more about the history of the Caribbean, seafaring, and the development of global trade.
How World Rum Day Came to Be
World Rum Day was established in 2019. It was initiated by British writer and journalist Paul Jackson, who has spent many years researching the history of this drink and is the author of *The World Rum Guide*—one of the most famous guides on rum.
According to the founder, he wanted to create a special day that would bring together rum producers, bartenders, and rum enthusiasts from different countries. The idea quickly gained support from distilleries, industry publications, and the international bar community. Today, World Rum Day is celebrated in dozens of countries around the world. Well-known brands, small family-run distilleries, themed bars, and museums all join in the celebration.
The History of Rum
The history of rum began in the 17th century on the islands of the Caribbean. It was there that sugarcane was actively cultivated, and molasses—a thick syrup—remained after sugar production, which became the main raw material for a new alcoholic beverage. Gradually, rum production became an important part of the Caribbean islands’ economy. The drink quickly gained popularity among sailors, merchants, and military personnel, and later spread throughout Europe and the Americas.
Historians note that rum played a significant role in global trade. It was transported by sea along with sugar, spices, and other goods. At certain times, rum was even used as a form of payment or as part of sailors’ wages. Today, rum is produced in many countries around the world, but it is most closely associated with the Caribbean region—Jamaica, Cuba, Barbados, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and other islands.
Interesting Pages of History
The history of rum spans nearly four centuries. In 1630, sugarcane began to be cultivated on a large scale in Barbados, which spurred the development of rum production.
In 1664, one of the first commercial distilleries was opened in what is now New York City, producing rum for the British colonies.
In 1733, the British Parliament passed the so-called Molasses Act, which imposed taxes on imports of raw materials used to produce rum. This legislation became one of the factors contributing to economic tensions between Great Britain and its American colonies.
In 1862, the Bacardí company was founded in Cuba, which later became one of the world’s most famous rum producers.
How World Rum Day Is Celebrated
Every year on the second Saturday in July, dozens of themed events take place in various countries. Major distilleries open their doors to visitors and offer tours that showcase the entire production process—from processing sugarcane to aging the spirit in oak barrels.
Bars and restaurants organize tastings of various types of rum, introducing guests to cocktails and the history of their creation. There are also master classes led by bartenders, lectures on drinking culture, presentations of new collections, and themed festivals. Many events are streamed online, so people from around the world can join in the celebration.
The Most Famous Rum Cocktails
World Rum Day often serves as an occasion to revisit classic cocktails that have long been part of global bar culture. Among the most famous is the Mojito, which consists of rum, lime, mint, sugar, and soda water. The Piña Colada remains just as popular—a combination of rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice that many consider a symbol of a tropical vacation.
Another classic is the Daiquiri, made with rum, lime juice, and sugar. Each of these cocktails has its own history and has long been a hallmark of global cocktail culture.
Interesting Facts About Rum
Rum is produced from sugarcane byproducts—most often from molasses or fresh sugarcane juice. Depending on the production method and aging process, it can be light, golden, dark, or spiced.
Some varieties are aged in oak barrels for over 20 years, giving them a complex flavor and aroma. The most expensive collectible bottles of rum sell at international auctions for tens of thousands of dollars. Today, rum is produced not only in the Caribbean, but also in Latin America, the United States, India, Australia, the Philippines, and other countries.
The Main Idea Behind the Holiday
World Rum Day is, first and foremost, an opportunity to reflect on the history of one of the world’s most famous alcoholic beverages and the people who have developed the culture of its production over the centuries.
The organizers emphasize that the celebration is dedicated not only to tastings but also to learning about the traditions of different countries, the history of maritime trade, the development of distilling, and responsible alcohol consumption. That is why the organizers’ main message is often heard during themed events: “Rum should be appreciated for its history, the craftsmanship of its producers, and its culture, and responsible consumption must always remain the top priority.”
The organizers of World Rum Day also remind us: “The best way to celebrate this holiday is to discover new flavors responsibly and with respect for the culture behind every bottle.”
