National Hot Toddy Day (January 11)

January 11 is the perfect excuse to cozy up with a warm drink—it’s National Hot Toddy Day!

This classic winter beverage has been enjoyed for centuries, blending soothing ingredients like honey, lemon, and whiskey.

Whether you’re sipping it to ward off the cold or just looking for a comforting way to relax, the hot toddy has stood the test of time. Plus, it’s one of the many weird holidays in January!

When is the Holiday?

National Hot Toddy Day is celebrated every year on January 11th. This midwinter date makes it the perfect occasion to enjoy a warming drink during the coldest months.

Who Invented It?

The origins of the hot toddy trace back to Scotland in the 1700s.

Physicians at the time recommended it as a remedy for colds and sore throats, believing the warm alcohol mixed with honey and lemon had healing properties.

Some sources also credit Irish doctor Robert Bentley Todd, who often prescribed a similar drink of brandy, sugar syrup, and Canella (a type of cinnamon).

The History of the Holiday

The word “toddy” comes from the Hindi term “tārī,” a drink made from the fermented sap of the toddy palm.

The beverage evolved in Scotland, where whiskey replaced other spirits, and it became a staple for staying warm in harsh winters.

During the American Revolutionary War, soldiers adopted the drink using rum or brandy instead of whiskey.

By the 1800s, the hot toddy gained widespread recognition, with its first published recipe appearing in Jerry Thomas’s 1860s book The Bartender’s Guide.

While the exact origins of the holiday remain unclear, it’s a fitting celebration for a drink long associated with warmth and comfort in winter.

Top 5 Facts About the Holiday

1. The hot toddy was originally considered a medicinal drink, used to soothe sore throats and colds.
2. The earliest recorded mention of a hot toddy in American print appeared in The Burlington Free Press in 1837.
3. Traditional hot toddies include whiskey, but modern variations use rum, brandy, tequila, or even non-alcoholic substitutes.
4. Some people believe a hot toddy can help with sleep due to the combination of warm liquid and alcohol.
5. The drink has inspired countless variations, including those infused with different teas, fruit juices, and spices.

Activities to Celebrate

• Make your own hot toddy at home with a classic recipe or a creative twist.
• Host a cozy winter gathering featuring hot toddy variations and warm appetizers.
• Visit a local bar or pub that serves hot toddies and try their signature version.
• Learn about the history of traditional winter beverages from around the world.
• Pair your hot toddy with a good book or a classic movie for the ultimate cozy night in.
• Share your favorite hot toddy recipe on social media using #NationalHotToddyDay.

Related Recipes for the Holiday

• Traditional Hot Toddy Recipe – Made with whiskey, honey, lemon juice, and hot water, this is the go-to classic for a cozy winter night.
• Tequila Hot Toddy – A smoky twist using añejo tequila, honey, lemon, and cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
• Chamomile Hot Toddy – A calming variation that combines chamomile tea with honey, lemon, and whiskey or brandy.
• Fireball Hot Toddy – A spicy, cinnamon-infused version that replaces traditional whiskey with Fireball for extra warmth.
• Cranberry Apple Hot Toddy – A fruity take on the classic, combining cranberry juice, apple cider, whiskey, and honey.
• Lemon, Ginger, and Honey Hot Toddy – A soothing option that includes fresh ginger, honey, lemon, and dark rum for a bold taste.
• Blood Orange + Earl Grey Hot Toddy – A tea-infused citrus delight that adds the deep flavors of Earl Grey and blood orange juice.
• Lemon Honey Hot Toddy with Vodka – A vodka-based alternative with a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Apple Chai Hot Toddy – A comforting chai-spiced version featuring apple cider and warm spices.
• Hot Spiced Cider Toddy – A mulled cider variation that combines apple cider, cinnamon, and cloves with a splash of whiskey.
• Hot Buttered Rum – A rich, buttery alternative featuring spiced butter, brown sugar, and rum.

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Links to Resources

• Wood Stove Kitchen Hot Toddy Mix: This all-natural mix combines clover honey, lemon juice, ginger, and a proprietary blend of spices, making it easy to craft a delicious drink at home.
• Hot Toddy Cocktail Tea Bags: Infuse these tea bags with cold water to enjoy a premium craft cocktail featuring honey, cinnamon, crystallized lemon, and clove. They’re organic, gluten-free, and non-GMO.
• Hot Toddy Glasses: Elevate your drinking experience with these crystal-clear mugs, perfect for serving hot toddies, Irish coffee, mulled wine, spiked cider, or eggnog. Their elegant design showcases your beverage beautifully.

Related Holidays

• National Gourmet Coffee Day (January 18) – Celebrate coffee lovers’ favorite day by indulging in specialty brews and gourmet blends.
• Hot Chocolate Day (January 31) – A day dedicated to the beloved cocoa drink, perfect for warming up during winter.
• National Iced Tea Day (June 10) – A summer favorite, this holiday celebrates the refreshing and versatile beverage enjoyed worldwide.
• National Pina Colada Day (July 10) – Embrace tropical vibes with a cool and creamy piña colada, perfect for beachside relaxation.

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