NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

National Harvey Wallbanger Day

Celebrate the rich history of cocktails with a Harvey Wallbanger in hand this November 8.

NOV8
Sunday, November 8Every year on November 8
 days to go
Roots
1952, credited to bartender Duke Antone
Vibe
The Harvey Wallbanger embodies the playful and vibrant spirit of its era.
Hashtag
#NationalHarveyWallbangerDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Mix the classic cocktail

Combine vodka, orange juice and Galliano over ice and garnish.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a retro cocktail hour

Dress seventies style and shake up a round of Wallbangers.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Plan a mocktail version

Mix orange juice and soda so everyone can join the toast.

Plan ahead

National Harvey Wallbanger Day is observed on November 8 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sun, Nov 8this year
2027Mon, Nov 8
2028Wed, Nov 8
2029Thu, Nov 8
2030Fri, Nov 8
2031Sat, Nov 8
2032Mon, Nov 8
2033Tue, Nov 8
2034Wed, Nov 8
2035Thu, Nov 8
2036Sat, Nov 8

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

The cocktail gained fame in the 1970s, especially after being featured in advertising.
Galliano liqueur is key to the drink’s unique flavor profile.

The story

The Harvey Wallbanger is a cocktail that rose to fame in the late 1960s and 1970s, capturing the spirit of a decade defined by experimentation and leisure. The drink combines vodka, orange juice, and Galliano, a sweet herbal liqueur, creating a refreshing and slightly sweet flavor. It became a staple in American bars, symbolizing the carefree lifestyle of the time.

Read the full story

Its name is said to have originated from a California bartender who created the drink, possibly named after a surfer known for his wild antics. The cocktail quickly gained popularity, making its way into various cocktail books and becoming a favorite at parties across the country. By the late 1970s, it had become one of the most recognized cocktails in America.

As you celebrate National Harvey Wallbanger Day, consider how this drink reflects a time of cultural change in the U.S. Its vibrant colors and fruity flavors evoke a sense of nostalgia, inviting people to gather and reminisce about the past. Whether you enjoy it poolside or at a lively gathering, the Harvey Wallbanger remains a symbol of fun.

In recent years, the cocktail has seen a resurgence as craft cocktails gain popularity. Bartenders are reinventing the classic, experimenting with fresh ingredients and modern techniques. On November 8, take a moment to honor not just the drink itself, but also the spirit of creativity and enjoyment that it represents.

Did you know?

01

Cocktail Origins

The Harvey Wallbanger was originally created as a variation of the Screwdriver.

02

Famous Advertisements

The cocktail was heavily promoted from around 1968 with a cartoon Harvey Wallbanger character.

03

Galliano's Role

Galliano is an Italian herbal liqueur that adds a unique flavor to the drink.

04

1970s Party Culture

The drink embodies the vibrant party culture of the 1970s in America.

05

Global Variations

Different countries have their own takes on the Harvey Wallbanger.

06

Modern Mixology

Today's bartenders often experiment with flavors to create new versions of this classic.

07

Pop Culture References

The Harvey Wallbanger has appeared in various films and TV shows, solidifying its place in pop culture.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesThe Harvey Wallbanger became a cultural icon in the U.S., especially during the 1970s.
  • AUAustraliaThe drink also gained popularity in Australia, showcasing the global appeal of this refreshing cocktail.
  • CACanadaCanadians have embraced the Harvey Wallbanger as part of their cocktail culture.
  • GBUnited KingdomIn the UK, the cocktail is often featured in retro-themed bars.
  • DEGermanyGermany has seen its own take on the Harvey Wallbanger, with local twists.
  • FRFranceIn France, classic cocktails are enjoying a renaissance, including the Harvey Wallbanger.

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