February 6 - International Bartender's Day: history and traditions of the holiday

Every year on February 6, many countries celebrate International Bartender's Day, a holiday dedicated to professionals who not only masterfully prepare drinks, but also create a good atmosphere in an establishment. In 2025, the date falls on Thursday. Read about the history and traditions of the celebration in the material "Izvestia".

International Bartender's Day - 2025: the history of the holiday on February 6

International Bartender's Day gained popularity in the early XXI century, first in Europe, and then in many other countries. According to various sources, it was first widely celebrated in 2008. The holiday is loved by both bar professionals and those who appreciate the culture of drinking establishments.

The date of February 6 was chosen not by chance - it is the day of St. Amand's memory, considered the patron saint of winemakers and brewers. St. Amand in the VII century actively preached Christianity in the wine-growing regions of France, Flanders and Germany, which was the reason for his connection with the alcohol industry.

The bartending profession is one of the most colorful in the hospitality industry. Today, it is not just a person pouring drinks, but a real master who understands the combination of tastes, psychology of communication, as well as possessing artistry. Bartenders create the atmosphere of the establishment, set the rhythm of parties and often become their main characters.

The first bartenders can be considered the owners of taverns and inns in Europe and America. In XVII-XVIII centuries visitors were offered mostly simple drinks: ale, beer, rum and whiskey. As a rule, the owners themselves poured alcohol for the guests.

The situation changed in the XIX century, when the "golden age of cocktails" began. The first professional bartenders began to appear in the USA. They did not just pour drinks, but also added ingredients and invented new recipes.

In 1862, American Jerry Thomas published the book "Bartender's Guide" - the first paper outline of cocktail making technologies. He was called the father of mixology, and the book itself laid the foundation for the creativity of modern representatives of this profession.

At the beginning of the XX century, the dry law came into force in the United States. It was in force from 1920 to 1933. As a result, many American bars closed, and bartenders emigrated to Europe, which contributed to the development of bar culture in France, Great Britain and other countries.

After World War II, the profession received a new round of development, cocktails became an important part of the restaurant business. Schools of bartenders appeared. In 1951, the International Bartenders Association (IBA) was founded, which now holds world championships and sets standards for the preparation of drinks.

In Russia, drinking establishments have existed since ancient times: taverns, inns, taverns. However, the profession of bartender did not exist. In establishments, drinks were poured either by the owners themselves or by employees.

After the revolution of 1917 private drinking establishments were liquidated. In the 1950s and 1960s, with the development of the restaurant industry, the first buffet bartenders appeared, who worked in hotels and restaurants. However, cocktail culture was practically absent in the USSR.

After the collapse of the USSR, on the wave of active growth of the restaurant business, the bartending profession emerged, cocktail bars began to open, where a large number of classic recipes were offered, author's drinks were developed, and the first bartending schools appeared. In 1997 the Russian Bartenders Association (RBA) was founded, which contributed to the development of the profession.

Traditions of celebrating the International Bartender's Day in Russia and the world

In Russia, themed events, contests and tastings are held on February 6. Bars and restaurants organize spectacular shows in which bartenders show their skills in flairings (juggling bottles and shakers).

Many establishments offer a unique cocktail menu created especially for the holiday. Also on this day there are master classes where guests can learn the basics of bar art. Professional competitions among bartenders are organized, where speed, technique and creativity in preparing drinks are taken into account.

In other countries on February 6, there are also many different events dedicated to the holiday. In the United States and Canada, cocktail festivals and competitions among bartenders are popular. In France, Belgium and Germany on this day there are parties in wine bars and pubs with tasting of national drinks.

Who and how to congratulate on International Bartender's Day

International Bartender's Day is a great opportunity to express gratitude to those who create the atmosphere of the holiday and know how to combine flavors.

Congratulations on this day are addressed to bartenders, mixologists, bar owners, sommeliers, as well as to all those who are connected with the hospitality industry. "Izvestia" prepared a few examples of how to do this.

"Dear bartenders! We congratulate you on your professional holiday! Your labor is not just mixing drinks, but the art of creating atmosphere, coziness and good mood. Let every cocktail bring joy to the guests, and your work will always be inspiring and grateful!"

"Dear friends, Congratulations to everyone who stands behind the counter creating perfect drinks and mood! May your working day be easy, tips - generous, and life - rich and bright as your best cocktails! Happy Holidays!"

"Congratulations on International Bartender's Day! Let every cocktail created by you bring joy to the guests. Let the institution will always be filled with the atmosphere of fun and guests who know the measure! We wish you success, health and inexhaustible creative approach to your business!"

Earlier "Izvestia" told about the traditions of celebrating the International Jeweler's Day in Russia.