National Eggnog Day is celebrated on December 24 each year, on Christmas Eve. Eggnog, a rich, creamy drink made with milk, cream, sugar, eggs and nutmeg, is a classic holiday treat. It can be served spiked with rum, bourbon or brandy for adults or alcohol-free for everyone. Love it or not, eggnog is one of the most recognizable flavors of the season.
History of National Eggnog Day
Eggnog likely descends from posset, a hot drink of milk curdled with ale or wine, enjoyed in medieval Britain. Because milk, eggs and sherry were luxuries, eggnog-style drinks were associated with the wealthy.
In the American colonies, dairy and eggs were plentiful, and rum from the Caribbean was cheap, so eggnog became popular across social classes. A recipe attributed to George Washington called for brandy, rye whiskey, rum and sherry, though historians are not sure he wrote it. The origin of the word is uncertain; it may come from 'nog', a type of strong ale, or 'noggin', a small wooden cup.
On Christmas Eve 1826, cadets at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point smuggled whiskey into their barracks to make eggnog. The party turned into the 'Eggnog Riot', and about 20 cadets were court-martialed. Today, store-bought eggnog fills dairy cases each holiday season. Who created National Eggnog Day is not documented.
Why National Eggnog Day Matters
Eggnog is a nostalgic holiday tradition that connects people to centuries of winter celebrations.
Its history, including the West Point Eggnog Riot, is full of fun stories.
Making eggnog at home also teaches food safety, since raw eggs can carry bacteria; cooked or pasteurized eggs make it safe.
How to Celebrate National Eggnog Day
- Make eggnog: use a cooked custard base for safety.
- Try it alcohol-free: enjoy it for the whole family.
- Bake with eggnog: make eggnog cookies, bread or French toast.
- Add spice: grate fresh nutmeg on top.
- Learn the history: read about the Eggnog Riot.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, offer alcohol-free eggnog at a holiday gathering, with alternatives for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan. In classrooms, students can learn about the Eggnog Riot, colonial foods, or food safety and pasteurization. At home, families can make cooked eggnog or eggnog French toast together. Use pasteurized eggs or heat the mixture to 160°F, and keep alcohol away from children.
Fun Facts About National Eggnog Day
- Eggnog likely descends from medieval British posset.
- A recipe attributed to George Washington used four kinds of alcohol.
- The Eggnog Riot took place at West Point in 1826.
National Eggnog Day FAQs
When is National Eggnog Day?
National Eggnog Day is celebrated on December 24 each year.
What is eggnog made of?
Eggnog is made with milk, cream, sugar, eggs and spices like nutmeg.
Where did eggnog come from?
Eggnog likely descends from posset, a medieval British drink.
Is homemade eggnog safe?
Yes, if you use pasteurized eggs or cook the mixture to 160°F.
What was the Eggnog Riot?
A Christmas Eve 1826 party at West Point that turned into a riot, leading to court-martials.
Can eggnog be made without alcohol?
Yes, eggnog is delicious alcohol-free.