Your Guide to Celebrating National Tequila Day Like a Pro

June 13, 2025 by

Tequila lovers, take note! National Tequila Day might be a US tradition, but that doesn’t mean we can’t raise a glass on this side of the pond too. Celebrated every year on July 24th, it’s the perfect excuse to gather your mates, mix up something bold and delicious, and toast to the agave spirit that’s taken the cocktail world by storm.

Whether you’re a casual sipper or a home mixologist in the making, there’s something seriously satisfying about celebrating tequila with great drinks, tasty food, and good company.

What & when is National Tequila Day?

This day might not come with centuries of cultural tradition, but that’s kind of the point; it’s casual, fun, and made for celebrating. National Tequila Day is all about recognising one of Mexico’s most beloved spirits and giving it a proper moment in the spotlight. Though it started as a niche observance, it’s now recognised by tequila fans worldwide as a reason to raise a glass to the blue agave.

Tequila is deeply tied to Mexican heritage, with roots stretching back to Aztec times and modern-day production practices that still honour tradition. So, while July 24th might not be a national holiday, it’s a great excuse to enjoy a piece of that culture and spark a little tequila appreciation.

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Hosting a Tequila Day celebration at home

If you’re wondering how to celebrate Tequila Day, it doesn’t take much to turn your living room, backyard, or balcony into a mini fiesta.

Start with the vibe. We like to start with warm lighting, colourful table settings, and a punchy playlist. Think paper garlands, vibrant napkins, and even a DIY cactus centrepiece if you’re feeling crafty. You don’t need to spend a fortune; a few thoughtful touches go a long way.

For a more relaxed feel, go with a laid-back taco night, tequila highballs, and simple snacks. If you’re aiming for something more elevated, you can shake up some classic cocktails, add food pairings, and bring out your nicest glassware.

Keen on more involved tequila celebration ideas? Try a dress-up theme like “Agave and Elegance” or print fun tasting scorecards for your guests. It’s about creating a memorable experience, minus the hosting stress.

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5 Must-try cocktails for National Tequila Day

Whether you’re mixing for two or prepping pitchers for a group, these Tequila Day cocktails celebrate tequila’s versatility and personality. From zesty and fresh to bold and complex, there’s a drink here for every kind of guest.

1. Lime Margarita

This classic is bright, zingy, and impossible to resist. The Lime Margarita is a celebration in a glass, perfectly balanced and endlessly crowd-pleasing. It’s a totally iconic Tequila Day recipe because it puts tequila front and centre, highlighting its crisp agave bite while complementing it with the citrussy sharpness of lime. Whether you’re salt-rimming glasses or going minimalist, it’s a familiar favourite that always brings party energy.

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2. Paloma

The Paloma is grapefruit-forward and sparkly, making it ideal for those who want something light, zesty, and not as sweet as a Margarita. It’s low-effort but high-impact, offering a refreshingly laid-back alternative that still feels festive. Tequila plays beautifully with the bitter citrus in this one, creating a juicy, thirst-quenching drink that’s as welcome on a patio as it is at a backyard bash.

3. Tequila Sunrise

With its layered look and citrus-meets-grenadine profile, the Tequila Sunrise brings colour and flair to your table. It’s a retro showstopper that tastes as joyful as it looks. This is the drink that says, ‘we’re here to have fun.’ Sweet, smooth, and sunshiny, it leans into tequila’s fruit-friendly side. The visual drama alone makes it worth a spot on your Tequila Day menu, ideal for hosts who love a little extra flair in their glassware.

4. Tequila Soda

Crisp, unfussy, and wildly drinkable, the Tequila Soda is one of the best tequila drinks for parties. Easy to make in batches, it lets the agave shine with a fizzy twist. It’s the go-to for those who prefer cleaner sips that aren’t overloaded with sugar. A squeeze of lime or grapefruit turns it into something effortlessly elevated, making it a practical hero for large gatherings and sunny afternoons alike.

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5. Tequila Sour

The Tequila Sour adds a touch of sophistication to your lineup. Creamy, tangy, and complex, it’s a great way to surprise guests who think they know tequila. With its velvety mouthfeel and well-balanced bite, it delivers something unexpected, especially for those used to sharper, punchier serves. A beautifully made Tequila Sour shows off the spirit’s versatility and adds a bit of cocktail-bar glam to your celebration.

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Tequila & food pairings to impress

No tequila celebration would be complete without some seriously tasty bites. Whether you’re serving a full meal or a few nibbles, these tequila food pairings will do the trick:

Meaty: Grilled steak or lamb with smoky salsa matches perfectly with reposado’s oak-kissed notes.

Vegetarian: Sweet potato tacos with lime crema are a dream with blanco tequila.

Vegan: Try grilled corn with chilli-lime seasoning and avocado for a vibrant pairing.

Got a sweet tooth? Serve up tequila-laced chocolate truffles, fresh churros, grilled pineapple with agave drizzle, or lime sorbet to end things on a bright note.

TASTY TIP! Set up a DIY taco bar with tortillas, proteins, salsas, and toppings. It’s interactive, delicious, and lets everyone build their perfect bite.

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DIY tequila tasting at home

Planning a tequila tasting at home is easier than you think, and it adds a fun, educational touch to the evening.

Grab a bottle of each style, including blanco, reposado, añejo, and cristalino. Espolòn has a great range to try. Serve each in small, tulip-shaped glasses to help capture the aromas.

Use plain crackers or white bread as palate cleansers and offer a small tasting card so guests can jot down notes. Encourage them to take their time: smell first, sip slowly, and look for flavours like agave, vanilla, oak, and spice.

Also see: Mezcal Cocktails 101(Smoky, Flavourful Drinks to Try at Home)

National Tequila Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate the character and history of tequila, and all the good times it brings to the table. Whether you go all out with a tequila tasting or keep it casual with tacos and cocktails, these tequila day ideas are your ticket to a memorable night. Want to keep the agave spirit alive year-round? Visit the Espolòn website to stock up on some amazing tequila, and remember to sign up for our newsletter to stay in the Mix.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

National Tequila Day is celebrated on July 24th every year. It’s not an official public holiday, but it’s a fun reason to raise a glass and celebrate this iconic Mexican spirit.

Host a themed get-together with cocktails, food pairings, and maybe even a tasting session. From casual nights with friends to full-blown fiestas, there are endless ways to honour tequila at home.

Margaritas, Palomas, Tequila Sours, and Tequila Sunrises are all popular choices. Each one highlights tequila in a unique way, making them perfect for toasting the occasion.

Tequila works beautifully with tacos, grilled meats, spicy salsa, and citrussy dishes. You can also pair it with sweet options like chocolate, fruit, or desserts with lime and agave.