Do You Like Pina Coladas?

On July 10th the nation makes homage to a sweet, rum-based cocktail on National Pina Colada Day. Along with rum, a Pina Colada includes cream of coconut and pineapple juice and is usually served blended or shaken with ice.

Did You Know?   Pina Colada means ‘strained pineapple,’ a reference to the freshly pressed and strained pineapple juice used in the drink.

While pineapple has been a part of the distillation history of rum, coconut didn’t show up until later. The first written reference to a pina colada was in 1922. However, two different claims to the invention of the pina colada in 1952 come from San Juan. Neither wavers from their story.

Pina Coladas made a resurgence in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s, most likely due to the popularity of Rupert Holmes’ song, “Escape (The Pina Colada Song),” which made it to the number one spot on Billboard‘s Hot 100 chart in December of 1979, the last song to hit number one in that decade.  “Escape” was knocked out of the top spot but returned to number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart during the second week of 1980, having been displaced for a week by KC and the Sunshine Band’s “Please Don’t Go”.  Thus it is the only pop song to ascend to #1 on the Billboard pop chart in two decades.

No matter who created the first creamy, sweet rum drink, or why you like to drink it, it is forever infused with the ocean and beaches. The cocktail’s bright flavor suggests sunshine and vacation. The coconut alone makes us think of suntans and the pineapple’s freshness delivers a sparkling note of summer breezes.

The beverage isn’t the only way to celebrate either. The day is dedicated to all things pina colada. Whether we make a dessert or snack on pina colada jelly beans, everyone can join in the day.

Put on your sunglasses, kick back and enjoy a sip or a taste. It’s the best way to celebrate.

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Photo Credit: PawelG Photo / Shutterstock.com