Last updated: January 17 , 2026
Quick Answer: January 17 National Hot Buttered Rum Day is an annual American food holiday observed every January 17 that honors one of the oldest warm cocktails in United States history. The drink combines dark rum, butter, sugar, spices, and hot water in a mug for a rich, warming winter sip. In 2026, the day falls on a Saturday; in 2027, it lands on a Sunday.
Key Takeaways
National Hot Buttered Rum Day is observed on January 17 every year in the United States, including January 17, 2026 and January 17, 2027.
Hot buttered rum is a colonial American drink made from dark rum, butter, sugar, spices, and boiling water served in a warm mug.
The drink traces its roots to Caribbean rum production in the 1600s and became popular in New England taverns during the colonial era.
Jerry Thomas documented the hot buttered rum recipe in his 1862 book How to Mix Drinks, cementing its place in American cocktail history.
A standard serving contains roughly 200-300 calories and approximately 14-20% ABV depending on the pour.
The batter (butter, sugar, and spices) can be made days in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.
A non-alcoholic mocktail version substitutes apple cider or spiced tea for rum, making the drink accessible to all guests.
Related drink days include World Rum Day in July and National Rum Day in August, along with International Dark ‘n Stormy Day.
When Is National Hot Buttered Rum Day and Why January 17?
National Hot Buttered Rum Day falls on January 17 every year. According to Checkiday, the observance is confirmed for January 17, 2026 (Saturday), January 17, 2027 (Sunday), and continues annually through at least 2028 [1]. The mid-January timing is no coincidence, it sits deep in winter when a hot drink feels most welcome.
No single founder has been officially credited with establishing the national day, which is common among informal American food holidays [2]. The date aligns with the coldest stretch of the winter calendar in most of the United States, making it a natural fit for a warm, spiced rum drink. January is also when many people search for comfort food days and cozy drink days after the busy holiday season.
Upcoming dates at a glance:
YearDateDay2026January 17Saturday2027January 17Sunday2028January 17Monday
The national day calendar for January is packed with food and drink observances. January 17 sits alongside other winter food days that celebrate rich, indulgent flavors, much like National English Toffee Day on January 8 and National Bittersweet Chocolate Day on January 10.
Quick Facts About National Hot Buttered Rum Day
National Hot Buttered Rum Day celebrates one of America’s oldest cocktail traditions, rooted in colonial New England tavern culture. The observance appears across major holiday databases including National Today, Dayspedia, and Drink Holidays [2][3][4].
Official hashtag: #NationalHotButteredRumDay
Category: National food days, drink days, winter holidays
Primary ingredient: Dark rum (though spiced rum also works)
Serving vessel: A warm mug or heat-safe glass
Core flavor profile: Butter, brown sugar, spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves), and rum
Related days: World Rum Day (July), National Rum Day (August), International Dark ‘n Stormy Day, National Hot Toddy Day
National Hot Buttered Rum Day Timeline: History of the Drink
Hot buttered rum has a documented history spanning more than 350 years, from Caribbean sugar plantations to American inauguration celebrations. Understanding the timeline helps explain why this drink earned its own national day [5][7].
Caribbean Rum Influence Begins (1600s)
Rum production began in the Caribbean during the 1600s, when sugarcane molasses was first distilled into a spirit on Barbados. Rum quickly became a major trade commodity, and ships carried it north to the American colonies. New England merchants and tavern keepers became the primary distributors, making rum the dominant spirit in colonial America [7].
Hot Buttered Rum Emerges in Colonial America (1700s)
As rum flooded New England markets, colonists began mixing it with hot water, butter, sugar, and available spices to create warming winter drinks. Colonial taverns served these hot drinks during cold months, and hot buttered rum became a staple of American hospitality. The drink’s popularity spread from New England south through the United States [5].
Rum at George Washington’s Inauguration (1789)
Rum held such cultural significance in America that it was reportedly served at George Washington’s inauguration in 1789. Washington himself was known to favor rum-based drinks, and the spirit was deeply woven into American political and social life during the founding era [7].
Jerry Thomas Publishes How to Mix Drinks (1862)
Bartender Jerry Thomas published How to Mix Drinks in 1862, which included one of the first printed hot buttered rum recipes. Thomas, often called the father of American bartending, helped standardize cocktail recipes and gave the drink lasting legitimacy. His work remains a foundational reference in American cocktail history [5][7].
Prohibition Disrupts Rum Traditions (1920-1933)
Prohibition banned alcohol production and sales in the United States from 1920 to 1933, disrupting rum traditions across the country. Hot buttered rum and other classic American drinks went underground during this period. After Prohibition ended, the drink gradually returned to American bars and home kitchens [2].
What Is Hot Buttered Rum and How Do You Make It?
Hot buttered rum is a warm cocktail made by combining dark rum, a spiced butter batter, and boiling water in a mug. It is one of the oldest hot drinks in American history and remains a popular winter beverage today [5][8].
The base recipe uses a “batter”, a blend of softened butter, brown sugar, and spices, that dissolves into the hot liquid. Here is a standard recipe for the January 17 National Hot Buttered Rum Day celebration:
Classic Hot Buttered Rum Recipe (serves 1):
1.5 oz dark rum
1 tablespoon spiced butter batter (see below)
6 oz boiling water
Garnish: cinnamon stick, pinch of nutmeg
Spiced Butter Batter (makes ~12 servings):
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves
Pinch of allspice and vanilla extract
Steps:
Beat butter, brown sugar, and spices together until smooth.
Store batter in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.
To serve: add one tablespoon of batter to a warm mug, pour in 1.5 oz dark rum, then fill with boiling water.
Stir until the butter melts completely. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
The January 17 national hot buttered rum day recipe is one of the most searched variations of this drink during the winter months. The key ingredients, butter, sugar, spices, and rum, create a drink that is both rich and aromatic [4][5].
Best Rum Brands, Batter Tips, and Drink Variations
Dark rum is the traditional choice for hot buttered rum, though spiced rum adds extra depth without much extra effort. The Old Tennessee Distilling Co. recommends using a full-flavored dark rum with molasses notes to complement the butter and spices [5].
Recommended rum styles:
Dark rum (Gosling’s, Myers’s, Plantation Original Dark): Classic molasses flavor, pairs perfectly with butter and brown sugar
Spiced rum (Captain Morgan, Sailor Jerry): Adds vanilla and cinnamon notes; reduces the need for extra spices
Aged rum (Ron Zacapa, Appleton Estate 12): Adds complexity for a more refined drink
How to make hot buttered rum batter in advance: The batter keeps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 14 days and in the freezer for up to three months. Make a large batch before the holidays and portion it into tablespoon-sized scoops on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-lock bag for easy single-serving use.
Does hot buttered rum go bad? The batter can spoil if left at room temperature for more than two hours due to the butter content. Always refrigerate or freeze unused batter promptly.
Hot buttered rum calories: A standard serving (1.5 oz rum plus one tablespoon of batter) contains approximately 220-280 calories, with most calories coming from the butter and brown sugar [2].
How much alcohol is in hot buttered rum? A standard serving with 1.5 oz of 80-proof rum diluted in 6 oz of water yields an ABV of roughly 8-12% in the finished drink, comparable to a strong glass of wine [4].
Hot Buttered Rum vs. Hot Toddy: What’s the Difference?
Hot buttered rum and a hot toddy are both warm spirit-based drinks, but they differ in ingredients and texture. A hot toddy typically uses whiskey (or sometimes rum), honey, lemon juice, and hot water, it is thinner, brighter, and more citrus-forward. Hot buttered rum uses butter and spices instead of honey and lemon, giving it a richer, creamier mouthfeel [8].
Key differences:
FeatureHot Buttered RumHot ToddyBase spiritRum (dark or spiced)Whiskey or rumSweetenerBrown sugarHoneyFat contentButter (rich, creamy)NoneFlavor profileWarm spice, butteryCitrus, floral, lightGarnishCinnamon stick, nutmegLemon slice, cloves
Both drinks are popular during winter and appear on national food days and drink days lists. National Hot Toddy Day is also observed in January, making it a natural companion to National Hot Buttered Rum Day [10].
Is hot buttered rum good for a cold or sore throat? The warm liquid, butter, and spices can soothe throat irritation temporarily, and the alcohol may help with sleep. However, alcohol is not a medical treatment for illness. The warm mug of spiced drink offers comfort, not a cure.
How to Celebrate National Hot Buttered Rum Day
The best ways to observe January 17 National Hot Buttered Rum Day are to make the drink at home, visit a local bar, share a mug with friends, or post about it using #NationalHotButteredRumDay. National Today and Checkiday both suggest using the day to explore the drink’s history and experiment with flavors [1][2].
Explore a Local Bar Version
Many American bars and restaurants that serve warm cocktails will feature hot buttered rum during January. Search for craft cocktail bars or New England-style pubs near you, these venues often have house-made batter recipes using local dark rum. Ordering from a bartender is a great way to taste professional variations before making your own at home.
Experiment With Flavors
The standard butter, sugar, and spices formula is a starting point. Try adding a splash of vanilla extract, a pinch of cardamom, or a teaspoon of maple syrup to the batter. Some recipes swap brown sugar for coconut sugar or add a small amount of cream for extra richness.
Share a Mug With Friends
Hot buttered rum is a natural group drink, the batter scales easily, and a slow cooker can keep a large batch warm for a party. Share a mug with friends on a cold January evening and use the occasion to talk about the drink’s colonial American roots.
Capture and Share the Mood
Photograph your mug against a cozy winter backdrop, a fireplace, snow outside a window, or a rustic wooden table, and share it on social media with the hashtag #NationalHotButteredRumDay. Tag the day as a word-of-mouth moment and encourage others to search for the recipe.
Can You Make Hot Buttered Rum Without Rum?
Yes. A non-alcoholic mocktail version replaces rum with hot spiced apple cider, strong chai tea, or a combination of both. Use the same spiced butter batter, dissolve it in the hot liquid, and serve in a warm mug. This version is suitable for non-drinkers, designated drivers, and anyone who wants to participate in the food holiday without alcohol [4][5].
Related Food Days and Holidays on January 17
January 17 shares its date with several other national days and holidays, making it one of the busier days on the January national days calendar. In 2027, the day falls on a Sunday, which makes it an ideal occasion for a brunch-style celebration [1][6].
Other observances on January 17, 2027 (Sunday) include:
Benjamin Franklin Day, honoring the American founding father born January 17, 1706
World Snow Day, an international day celebrating winter outdoor activities
International Mentoring Day, focused on mentorship and professional development
Feast of the Holy Child, a religious observance in some traditions
Related rum and drink days throughout the year:
World Rum Day, observed in July (exact date varies by year); a global celebration of rum culture in June, July, and August
National Rum Day, observed in August, with wide recognition across the United States
International Dark ‘n Stormy Day, celebrates the Gosling’s Dark ‘n Stormy cocktail, a registered trademark drink
National Hot Toddy Day, another warm winter drink day in January
The pattern of drink days follows the calendar logically: hot drinks dominate the January, February, and March months, while cold rum cocktails peak in the June, July, August, September, October, November, and December cycle. The national day calendar tracks these from january february march through october november december, giving food and drink enthusiasts a year-round reason to celebrate.
For more January food holidays, browse the full list of January national days or check out National French Onion Soup Day on January 12 for another warm winter comfort food celebration. Fans of sweet January food days may also enjoy National Whipped Cream Day on January 5 or National Shortbread Day on January 6.
FAQ: National Hot Buttered Rum Day
What is National hot buttered rum Day?
National Hot Buttered Rum Day is an annual American food holiday observed on January 17 that celebrates the classic warm cocktail made from dark rum, butter, brown sugar, spices, and hot water. The day encourages people to make or order the drink, learn about its colonial American history, and share the experience with others. It appears on major national day calendars including National Today and Checkiday [1][2].
Is January 17 a holiday in the United States in rum?
January 17 is not a federal public holiday in the United States, but it is recognized as National Hot Buttered Rum Day, an informal national food and drink observance. The day does not result in business closures or government recognition, but it is widely listed on American holiday and food days calendars. It is one of many drink days celebrated informally across the country each year [1][3].
Is Tom and Jerry the same as hot buttered rum?
No, a Tom and Jerry is not the same as hot buttered rum, though the two are closely related. A Tom and Jerry uses a batter made with eggs (beaten yolks and whites separately), sugar, and spices, then adds both rum and brandy with hot milk or water. Hot buttered rum uses a butter-based batter with no eggs and typically only rum. The Tom and Jerry is richer and more custard-like, while hot buttered rum is simpler and more spirit-forward [5][7].
What do you mix with hot buttered rum?
Hot buttered rum is mixed with four core components: dark rum (1.5 oz), a spiced butter batter (1 tablespoon of butter, brown sugar, and spices), and boiling water (about 6 oz), all combined in a warm mug. Optional additions include a splash of vanilla extract, a cinnamon stick garnish, a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg, or a small pour of cream for extra richness. The January 17 national hot buttered rum day recipe calls for butter, sugar, spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, plus a quality dark rum [4][5].
Conclusion
January 17 National Hot Buttered Rum Day is more than a quirky entry on the national food days calendar, it is a genuine connection to American culinary history stretching back through colonial New England taverns, George Washington’s era, and Jerry Thomas’s landmark 1862 bartending guide. Whether the goal is to mix drinks at home, visit a local bar, or simply share a warm mug with friends on a cold January day, the observance offers a concrete reason to slow down during winter.
Actionable next steps for 2026 and 2027:
Make a batch of spiced butter batter before January 17 and store it in the freezer for easy single-serving use.
Search for a craft cocktail bar in your area that serves hot buttered rum and support local drink culture.
Share a photo with #NationalHotButteredRumDay on January 17 to help the word spread.
Try the mocktail version with hot apple cider if serving guests who don’t drink rum.
Mark January 17, 2027 (Sunday) on your calendar now, a Sunday makes it the perfect day for a leisurely brunch celebration.
For more warm winter food holidays throughout January, explore the full January food holidays collection, or check out National Bloody Mary Day on January 1 for another classic American drink day to kick off the new year.
References
[1] National Hot Buttered Rum Day – https://www.checkiday.com/0217e907bc148f93ff4c6c0e837c9d2f/national-hot-buttered-rum-day
[2] National Hot Buttered Rum Day – https://nationaltoday.com/national-hot-buttered-rum-day/
[3] Dayspedia – https://dayspedia.com/us/calendar/holiday/1102/
[4] National Hot Buttered Rum Day – https://drinkholidays.com/holiday/national-hot-buttered-rum-day
[5] National Hot Buttered Rum Day – https://oldtennesseedistillingco.com/national-hot-buttered-rum-day/
[6] National Hot Buttered Rum Day – https://www.kuriose-feiertage.de/national-hot-buttered-rum-day/
[7] National Hot Buttered Rum Day January 17 – https://uswhiskeyreport.com/national-hot-buttered-rum-day-january-17/
[8] Liquor Holidays – https://nationaltoday.com/liquor-holidays/
[9] National Hot Buttered Rum Day 2024 – https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/national-hot-buttered-rum-day-2024-all-about-the-january-17-occasion-dedicated-to-the-colonial-era-drink-101705479268646.html
[10] Beverage Holidays – https://nationaltoday.com/beverage-holidays/