NATIONAL PUNCH DAY | SEPTEMBER 20
#NationalPunchDay
A wide assortment of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, fall into the category of punch. A combination of fruit juice and a carbonated beverage, the colorful, bubbly drink sparkles with party personality. In fact, parties, weddings, and other celebrations serve punch as part of the centerpiece at the beverage table. Large wide bowls known as punch bowls provide a beautiful vessel for serving punch.
In the early 17th century, punch made its appearance. It’s believed sailors en route to England via India created the drink. Punch quickly grew in popularity and soon spread to other countries.
The word punch is a loanword from Hindi panch (meaning five). Originally, punch was made with five ingredients: alcohol, sugar, lemon, water, and tea or spices. It was called paantsch.
Soft drink manufacturers today distribute many types of “fruit punch” beverages. Most punch mixes are red in color. However, despite the name, they contain a small fraction of fruit juice. Sugar, corn syrup, citric acid, and artificial flavors make up the main ingredients.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PUNCH DAY
Make some punch and make a toast! Thousands of punch recipes make the beverage versatile and easy to make. Check recipe books and online. Be sure to share your favorites, too! Use #NationalPunchDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL PUNCH DAY HISTORY
National Day Calendar continues seeking the source or founder of this beverage holiday.
