National Refreshment Day, observed on the fourth Thursday in July, is a celebration of enjoyment during the peak of summer. It commemorates those moments of cool, refreshing indulgence, with a special nod to the pleasure of a chilled, ice-cold beer. It's a day to appreciate and savor these simple yet cherished pleasures that offer respite during the hottest times of the year. Cheers to #NationalRefreshmentDay and the delightful moments it brings!

History and Origin

National Refreshment Day was established by Traveler Beer Company in 2015 to highlight the importance of taking a moment to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink or activity. The day is meant to encourage people to unwind, rejuvenate, and celebrate the pleasures of summer.

Significance of Refreshment

Refreshment is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Taking breaks and enjoying refreshing beverages or activities can:

1. Rehydrate: Help maintain hydration, especially important during the hot summer months.
2. Rejuvenate: Provide a mental and physical break from daily routines and stress.
3. Socialize: Offer an opportunity to connect with friends and family in a relaxed setting.
4. Boost Energy: Refreshing drinks and activities can boost energy levels and improve mood.

How to Celebrate

National Refreshment Day can be celebrated in a variety of enjoyable ways:

1. Enjoy a Refreshing Beverage: Treat yourself to a cold drink, such as iced tea, lemonade, soda, beer, or a cocktail. Try making a new refreshing drink recipe at home.
2. Take a Break: Step away from work or daily chores to relax and recharge. Spend time outdoors, read a book, or take a leisurely walk.
3. Host a Gathering: Invite friends and family over for a refreshment-themed party. Serve a variety of cold drinks and snacks, and enjoy each other’s company.
4. Try a New Activity: Engage in a fun and refreshing activity such as swimming, hiking, or visiting a local park or beach.
5. Share on Social Media: Post pictures of your refreshing drinks and activities on social media using the hashtag #NationalRefreshmentDay to join the celebration online.

Popular Refreshing Beverages

• Lemonade: A classic summer drink made with lemon juice, water, and sugar.
• Iced Tea: Tea served chilled, often sweetened and flavored with lemon or mint.
• Smoothies: Blended drinks made with fruit, yogurt, and ice.
• Craft Beer: Enjoy a cold craft beer from a local brewery.
• Mocktails: Non-alcoholic beverages that are flavorful and refreshing.

Refreshing Activities

• Swimming: Cool off in a pool, lake, or ocean.
• Picnicking: Enjoy a meal outdoors with refreshing drinks and light snacks.
• Gardening: Spend time tending to plants and enjoying the tranquility of nature.
• Outdoor Games: Play sports or lawn games such as frisbee, badminton, or cornhole.
• Reading: Find a shady spot and relax with a good book.

Fun Facts about Refreshing Beverages

• Lemonade History: Lemonade dates back to ancient Egypt, where a lemon-flavored beverage made from a mix of lemon juice, sugar, and water was enjoyed.
• Iced Tea Origins: Iced tea gained popularity in the United States after being served at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis.
• Smoothie Trend: Smoothies became popular in the 1960s and 1970s as health food trends grew.

Refreshing Beverage Recipes

Here are a couple of simple recipes for refreshing drinks you can make at home:

Classic Lemonade: Ingredients:

• 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-6 lemons)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 5 cups cold water
• Ice
• Lemon slices and mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup of water and the sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool.
2. In a pitcher, combine the lemon juice and the sugar syrup. Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water.
3. Stir well and refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice, garnished with lemon slices and mint.

Refreshing Iced Tea: Ingredients:

• 4 black tea bags
• 8 cups water
• 1/4 cup honey or sugar (optional)
• Ice
• Lemon slices and mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil. Remove from heat and add the tea bags. Let steep for 5-7 minutes.
2. Remove the tea bags and stir in honey or sugar if using. Add the remaining 4 cups of cold water.
3. Refrigerate until chilled. Serve over ice, garnished with lemon slices and mint.

Responsible Enjoyment

• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re consuming caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
• Moderation: Enjoy alcoholic beverages in moderation and never drink and drive.
• Health Considerations: Be mindful of sugar content in beverages, and consider healthier alternatives when possible.

National Refreshment Day is an ideal time to take a step back from your routine, enjoy a refreshing beverage, and engage in activities that help you relax and recharge. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, trying a new drink recipe, or simply taking a break, this day is all about finding ways to refresh your body and mind.