National Sangria Day, observed on December 20, is a great reason to enjoy a glass of wine mixed with fresh fruit and a touch of sweetness. Sangria has deep roots in Spain, with early versions dating back to Roman times, and the observance has been officially recognized in the United States since 2013. Its late-December timing makes it a natural fit for relaxed gatherings as the holiday season approaches.
On this day, people are encouraged to enjoy and experiment with different variations of sangria, making it a great way to bring some holiday cheer.
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When Is National Sangria Day Celebrated?
If you’re planning to mark National Sangria Day, it helps to know that this wine-focused observance is celebrated every year on December 20. Its fixed date places it just days before Christmas, making it a popular choice for relaxed gatherings and seasonal toasts.
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | December 20, Saturday |
| 2026 | December 20, Sunday |
| 2027 | December 20, Monday |
| 2028 | December 20, Wednesday |
| 2029 | December 20, Thursday |
| 2030 | December 20, Friday |
The History Behind Sangria
Sangria developed from early practices of mixing wine with water, herbs, and spices, a method used in ancient times when clean drinking water was not always available. By the 18th century, fruit became a regular addition, shaping the drink into a form closer to modern sangria in Spain and Portugal.
The drink gained international attention in 1964, when sangria was served at the Spanish Pavilion during the World’s Fair in New York. From there, it spread quickly, especially in the United States. While the classic version uses red wine with citrus and sugar, sangria has since adapted to regional tastes, including white wine versions, sparkling variations, and recipes featuring berries or seasonal fruits.
How to Celebrate National Sangria Day
Celebrating National Sangria Day can be as simple or as creative as you like. Enjoy a classic version made with red wine, citrus slices, and a hint of spice, or try a lighter option such as white sangria with apples and sparkling water. Seasonal fruits and gentle spices can easily adapt the drink to a December setting.
Sharing the day with others fits the tradition well. A small sangria tasting lets everyone bring their own variation, from traditional recipes to modern twists. Pairing sangria with simple tapas like olives, cheese, or cured meats adds a nod to its Spanish origins.
For inspiration, this short video shows an easy white sangria recipe:
Facts About Sangria
Sangria reflects centuries of wine culture and regional tradition, shaped by local ingredients and social customs. Beyond the familiar fruit-and-wine mix, there are several lesser-known details worth noting:
- In the European Union, the term sangria is legally protected. Only wine-based drinks made in Spain or Portugal can be sold as “sangria,” while similar drinks elsewhere must use alternative names.
- Traditional sangria was often prepared in large batches and allowed to rest for hours, or even overnight, so the fruit flavors could fully infuse the wine.
- White sangria, sometimes called sangria blanca, developed as a regional adaptation rather than a modern invention, especially in areas where white wine was more common than red.
- In Spain, sangria is more closely associated with gatherings and celebrations than with daily drinking, and it is less commonly ordered in restaurants than many visitors expect.
- While citrus fruits are classic, some traditional recipes include apples or peaches, reflecting what was locally available rather than a fixed ingredient list.
