National Vodka Day is an unofficial holiday in the United States, celebrated annually on October 4th. The purpose of this holiday is to celebrate vodka—an alcoholic beverage made by distilling fermented cereal grains or potatoes.

Vodka is the second most consumed beverage in the world, behind whiskey, with almost eleven billion dollars’ worth sold worldwide every year. So, if you’re inclined to celebrate this intoxicating holiday and you’re of legal drinking age, you may want to pour yourself a drink and enjoy the day with your friends.

The History of Vodka

While the lineage of many alcoholic beverages we enjoy today can be traced back in time, the history of vodka continues to elude modern scholars. This is because there simply isn’t enough historical information on the subject.

All that scholars know is that for many centuries, vodka-like beverages have been brewed for consumption. To further complicate matters, these alcoholic beverages were significantly different from one another and often made in a wide variety of flavors and smells.

What scholars do know, however, is that vodka was produced during the Middle Ages in Poland. This is evidenced by its mention in court documents from the Palatinate of Sandomierz in the 15th century.

At that time, vodka wasn’t widely consumed for recreational purposes. Instead, it was used as a cleanser or for medicinal purposes. It wouldn’t be until the following century that vodka would become a popular beverage for recreational drinking. Vodka also gained popularity in Russia during this period.

However, most of this vodka had an alcohol content of only about 40% ABV. In many parts of the country, this beverage replaced the more expensive grape wines. Eventually, Russians began to produce a drink called vodka, which was about 75% ABV.

This drink wasn’t really meant for recreational consumption but was intended for its medicinal properties. During the 19th century, vodka spread throughout Europe, thanks to Russian soldiers involved in the Napoleonic Wars.

As it crossed borders, it continued to gain followers and popularity. Unfortunately, the demand for vodka became so great that many distilleries began to produce it using lower-grade products, such as potato mash.

This issue was addressed by the end of the 19th century when standards were established that guaranteed the quality of vodka in Russia and many parts of Europe. During the 20th century, as Russians emigrated, they brought their vodka-making techniques with them to all parts of Europe and the United States.

The History of National Vodka Day

Currently, the exact origin of National Vodka Day is unknown. However, it was likely invented sometime between 2004 and 2008, around the time when television programs in the U.S. began acknowledging the holiday.

Intoxicating Vodka Facts

• Vodka is lighter than water.
• Vodka was used to make gunpowder during the 15th century.
• Vodka can be used to make aftershave.

Top Vodka Drinks

• Screwdriver
• Bloody Mary
• White Russian
• Black Russian
• Vodka Martini
• Moscow Mule
• Vodka Salty Dog
• Sex on the Beach
• Sea Breeze Cocktail
• Vodka Tonic

Celebrating National Vodka Day

Celebrating National Vodka Day is quite simple. All you need to do is pour yourself a glass of this alcoholic beverage or enjoy it with friends. If you prefer to go out to the local tavern, pub, or bar, you can also order one of your favorite vodka-based drinks. Just be sure to drink responsibly.

True vodka enthusiasts may even choose to cook with this beverage on this day. And if you’re on social media enjoying a stiff drink, you might want to use the hashtag #NationalVodkaDay as you post pictures of your celebration.

Conclusion

National Vodka Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a nice cold glass of vodka or one of your favorite vodka concoctions and reflect on the history of a beverage that originated in Eastern Europe and is now enjoyed by people all over the world.