The Best Way to Celebrate National Bartender Day

Bartenders do so much than just serve drinks. They craft complex flavors and help create unforgettable experiences. They offer the support of welcoming smiles and a friendly ear at the end of a long day. They show up on holidays and stay late into the night. On December 8th, join us as we raise a toast to one of the world’s oldest professions. Cheers! It’s National Bartender Day!



History of National Bartender Day

National Bartender Day originated in America, and it was originally started by Sailor Jerry Rum to recognize the great contributions made by this profession. Over the years, bartenders have shaped the industry of cocktails and spirits into what we enjoy today. From reinvigorating classics to innovating trends, new recipes, and eco-friendly, locally-sourced ingredients, bartenders continue to push their craft to the next level. On December 8th, raise a glass to these magicians of mixology, in recognition of the many men and women who craft cocktails and pour pints nightly.

How to Best Celebrate

On December 8th, buy your bartender a drink or two and toast to all their hard work. If it’s not too busy, reverse the typical scenario and ask your bartender how their week is going. These men and women spend a lot of time interacting with people at their highest, and their lowest. Part flavor artist, part entertainer, and part therapist, your local bartender is guaranteed to have some stories to share.

Fun Facts About Bartenders

• According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were almost 650,000 bartenders in the United States in 2018.
• While no formal education is required, some bartenders go to bartending school to learn everything from flavor profiles and mixology to eye-catching flair and cutting-edge methods.
• The Bartending Olympics are totally a thing. From flavor to flair, competitors can show off their skills at annual events, where they take home big prizes and win top distinctions in their field.
• It’s said there are three nights a bartender always works: March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day), October 31 (Halloween), and December 31 (New Year’s Eve).

Join us, and our bartenders, at McCray’s Tavern on December 8th! Or come see us on one of the busiest nights of the year, when we’ll be ringing in the Roaring Twenties with a Gatsby-themed New Year’s Eve celebration at all our McCray’s Tavern locations!

McCray’s Tavern is your local neighborhood bar and pour house! Serving brunch, lunch, and dinner, with kid-friendly options and live music. Call 678.370.9112 for reservations, or book your next event!