National Rum Day on August 16 celebrates the rich history of rum and offers various deals across the country. Discover how rum is made and where to find the best offers.
Washington DC, United States Aug 16, 2026 ALN: For pirates and Tiki bar lovers, today is a very important occasion. National Rum Day, celebrated annually on August 16, is a day dedicated to honoring the sweet and spicy alcohol that features prominently in cocktails like piña coladas, zombies, and mojitos. This day not only serves as a reminder to enjoy the versatile spirit but also to reflect on its rich history and cultural significance.
Let’s take a look at some history before we dive into the deals.
There are many different varieties of rum, but all of them start with sugarcane, a tropical grass that thrives in warm climates. Once harvested, the sugarcane is transformed into one of the base ingredients for the liquor: molasses, cane juice, or cane syrup. Molasses, a byproduct of sugar refining, is the most common ingredient used in rum production.
Next is the fermentation process, where water and yeast are added to the mix. The yeast consumes the sugars present in the molasses or cane juice, producing alcohol and carbon dioxide. This new mixture is then distilled by heat, which concentrates the alcohol and flavors. The distillation process can vary; some rums are distilled multiple times to achieve a smoother finish, while others may be distilled just once for a more robust flavor.
The amount of times this occurs depends on the type of rum. Some rums are also aged in oak barrels, which imparts additional flavors and colors to the spirit, while others go straight to the bottle for immediate consumption. Aging can significantly affect the taste profile of rum, leading to varieties that are light, amber, dark, spiced, or aged, each with unique characteristics.
Modern rum as we know it today has an unsavory history intertwined with colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade. It dates back to the 17th century, coinciding with the expansion of sugarcane production and enslaved labor in the Caribbean. Somewhere along the line, it was discovered that molasses could be fermented, leading to the production of this potent spirit.
These early concoctions were crude and strong, often referred to as “kill-devil” or “rumbullion.” The latter name was eventually shortened to rum, a term that has persisted through the centuries. Pirates, notorious for their adventurous and rebellious lifestyles, learned to loot the liquor from merchant ships, further embedding rum into maritime culture.
However, pirates weren’t the only ones who appreciated the beverage. Colonial America also developed a strong affinity for rum, which was often cheaper and easier to obtain than beer or brandy. The drink became a staple in the colonies, leading to the establishment of local distilleries. Colonists even began distilling their own rum, and tensions rose when England attempted to impose taxes on molasses, an essential ingredient for rum production. This taxation fueled resentment and contributed to the revolutionary spirit that ultimately led to the American Revolutionary War, where the colonists emerged victorious.
Rum has continued to evolve over the years, adapting to changing tastes and production techniques. Today, it is celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its versatility in cocktails and its ability to evoke tropical imagery and leisurely days by the beach.
Before the rum runs out (which would break Jack Sparrow’s heart), here’s where you can pillage some of your own treasure.
At participating Twin Peaks Restaurant locations, like the one in Broomfield, Colorado, the rum is flowing. You can order a mai tai for $6.50, a mojito for $7.50, or a Cuban Old Fashioned for $10.50. These prices reflect the restaurant's commitment to making rum cocktails accessible for all to enjoy on this special day.
In our nation’s capital, Tiki TNT wants to feed you as well. This establishment is offering a $15 burger special, pairing perfectly with their $9 Thrasher’s rum drink, which can be mixed as a rum and coke or a Resort Mai Tai. If you want to explore a variety of flavors, they are also offering $12 Thrasher’s flights, allowing patrons to sample different types of rum.
In Ohio, at Smash Park Westerville, rewards members are in for a treat. After playing a quick game of pickleball, you can refresh your taste buds with a $4 mojito. This special runs all weekend, from August 14-16, making it a perfect opportunity for both sports and relaxation.
At LALO’s Tacos & Cantina in Watkinsville, Georgia, you can grab a mojito for $7.99, or a rum and soda for $4 with the purchase of an entrée, blending the flavors of rum with delicious Mexican cuisine.
Enter to win at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille, with locations in Fort Myers Beach, Sanibel, and St. Petersburg, all in Florida. With every purchase of Doc’s Coco XO Mojito rum cocktail or a rum flight, you will receive a raffle ticket for a chance to improve your at-home bar. The prize includes a gift basket featuring a bottle of Mount Gay’s XO rum and all the serving apparatus needed, making it an enticing offer for rum enthusiasts.
Back in D.C. and Virginia, at participating Colada Shop venues, you can enjoy $5 mojitos, though this deal is not available at the DCA Airport location, highlighting the importance of local participation in the celebration.
At Havana Central in New York City, patrons can enjoy half off on classic mojitos, making it a prime location for those looking to celebrate National Rum Day in a vibrant atmosphere.
On the West Coast, Venus Spirits in Santa Cruz, California, is the go-to spot for a $10 daiquiri. If geography isn’t on your side, you can still take part in the celebration by heading to their online shop for 20% off on El Ladrón Rums. Be sure to use the code RUM20 at checkout to enjoy this special offer.
With all these deals, the rum is sure to last, allowing enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike to celebrate National Rum Day in style. Whether you prefer to enjoy your rum in a classic cocktail or explore new concoctions, this day is a perfect occasion to raise a glass and toast to the rich history and cultural significance of rum.
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