The beloved tequila-based cocktail gets its own special celebration on February 22nd, as National Margarita Day returns with festivities and deals across the country.
This year, the holiday reaches new heights with a special 15-minute short film collaboration between Chili's and Lifetime starring Taye Diggs and Maria Menounos. "I'll Be Home for National Margarita Day" premieres Saturday at 11 a.m. across multiple streaming platforms.
California Roots and Mysterious Origins
While several origin stories exist, the margarita's history remains clouded in mystery. The first documented mention appeared in Esquire magazine's December 1953 edition, describing the cocktail's now-classic recipe of tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and salt rim.
The drink gained major traction in Los Angeles during the mid-1950s when McHenry's Tail o' the Cock restaurant began selling large volumes of tequila through their margarita sales. A local distributor took notice and began sharing the recipe with other establishments, helping popularize the cocktail throughout California and beyond by the 1960s.
Where to Find Deals
Chili's leads the National Margarita Day promotions with several special offerings:
- $5 Tequila Trifecta Margaritas featuring three premium tequilas
- $6 StrawEddy Margarita of the Month
- The Presidente Margarita, featured in the holiday short film
- Limited edition margarita merchandise tied to the Lifetime special
The classic margarita recipe emerged in bars during the 1940s, combining tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur. Today's variations include skinny, spicy, and even avocado-infused versions, showcasing the cocktail's versatility and enduring popularity.
Restaurants and bars nationwide are expected to offer special pricing and unique margarita creations to mark the occasion. Local establishments often promote their deals through social media platforms using #NationalMargaritaDay.