National Aperitif Day for the year 2024 is celebrated/observed on Thursday, May 18th. There are until the next observance.

Every year on the third Thursday of May, National Aperitif Day is observed. It is held on May 18 this year. Aperitifs—beverages used before meals, such as fizz, dry vermouth, and white wine—are popular during the day.

📆 When is National Aperitif Day?

This year, National Aperitif Day is on May 18th. It is the 3rd Thursday in May; in 2024, it is on Saturday.

Countdown to National Aperitif Day

Did you know: A gin and tonic garnished with lemon is the Queen’s favorite aperitif.

You can also explore all fascinating things you didn’t know about and facts about May 18, 2023.

📜 History of National Aperitif Day

Aperitif is a French word. However, it is known as “aperitivo” in Italian. Both meanings derive from the Latin word “aperire,” which means “to open, or uncover.” These libations were intended to stimulate the appetite and get the palate ready for eating. Aperitifs are typically served before heavy or complicated dinners. The term “aperitif” can refer to a group of alcoholic beverages and the cocktails that contain them. These alcoholic beverages and cocktails frequently include herbs or other flavors that pique the consumer’s appetite.
Europe frequently engages in aperitifs, particularly in France and Italy. They are frequently offered as after-dinner beverages to enhance the dining experience. Some people choose to consume a digestif—a beverage that assists in digestion—instead of an aperitif at the conclusion of their meal. Bars in Europe offer their customers aperitifs and light nibbles similar to the American happy hour.

☑️ National Aperitif Day facts

There’s a reason why aperitifs are bitter
Bitter drinks help us become more aware and prepared for the meal ahead of us.

Campari got its red color from beetles
Campari received its distinctive red color from cochineal bugs when it was initially made.

Digestifs are the opposite of aperitifs
Digestifs, as opposed to aperitifs, are offered after meals to promote digestion.

Things to do on National Aperitif Day

Host a dinner party
Host a dinner party to commemorate National Aperitif Day. This cannot, however, be just any other party. Remember to start with aperitifs and conclude with another kind of aperitif or digestif.

Make your own cocktails
On National Aperitif Day, show off your bartending abilities. Make your favorite aperitif-based drinks or try out new recipes and invite your friends over for a tasting test—how fun does that sound?

Visit a bar
Is your favorite pub known for its aperitif cocktails? Celebrate National Aperitif Day at your favorite pub with your favorite aperitif cocktails. Invite your friends to join in on the fun!

📅 National Aperitif Day Observances

YEAR DATE DAY
2023 May 18 Thursday
2024 May 18 Saturday
2025 May 18 Sunday
2026 May 18 Monday
2027 May 18 Tuesday

See all May holidays, including Food & Beverage and other Cocktail holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and fun facts about National Aperitif Day. So be sure to check back soon.