Celebrated on 07/02/2026
National Anisette Day celebrates the anise-flavored liqueur that originated in the Mediterranean. Anisette is often clear and sweet, and it's a key ingredient in many classic cocktails like the Sazerac and the Absinthe Frappé.
National Anisette Day was established in 2018 by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) in collaboration with anisette producers. The date, March 2nd, was chosen to mark the beginning of spring and the traditional season for anise-based spirits. The holiday aims to promote the heritage and versatility of anisette, a liqueur with roots dating back to ancient Greece and Rome.
Initially a niche observance, National Anisette Day has grown through social media campaigns and cocktail competitions. Today, bars and distilleries host tasting events, and enthusiasts share recipes for classic and modern anisette cocktails. The day also highlights the liqueur's role in cultural traditions, such as the French "pastis" and Italian "sambuca."
Anisette is typically 25-30% alcohol by volume (ABV), making it a moderately strong liqueur. The United States imports over 500,000 liters of anisette annually, with France being the largest exporter. * Anisette's distinct licorice flavor comes from aniseed, which is actually a fruit from the Apiaceae family, not related to true licorice.
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