Now more than ever it seems like there is always some national day being celebrated every time you look around. It can be overwhelming. One day that you should not pass up celebrating though is National Rum Day. On August 16th one of the most popular spirits, rum, has its day in the spotlight.

So why not revel in the day that is dedicated to rum. Since the day happens to fall on a Friday it is cause for even more celebration. After a long work week you can now unwind and relax with a refreshing cocktail. Here are a few delicious recipes that you should try out.

If you are having a party I would go with the Port Royal Punch. If you are having a smaller gathering why not try the Black and Ginger Tea. Cheers!

PORT ROYAL PUNCH (Serves 25)

Ingredients:

2 46-oz. cans of pineapple juice

3 cups mango juice

1 750 mL bottle of Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum

4.5 oz. grenadine

3 oranges sliced thinly and quartered

3 cans of Sprite for fizz

Directions: In a punch bowl or large serving vessel, add the above ingredients and stir. Serve over ice in a punch glass – or glass of your choosing.

BLACK & GINGER TEA

Ingredients:

3 oz. Ginger Tisane (tea base)

1 oz. Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum

1 Tablespoon agave nectar (or sweetener of choice)

1/4 oz. lemon juice

Directions: Brew tea base or tea bag in 6-8 oz. of water. Brew hot for four minutes and flash-chill, or cold for one hour. Shake with Captain Morgan Black Spiced Rum, sweetener and lemon juice, and pour into rocks glass over ice.  Created by Owl’s Brew.

CAPTAIN’S INVASION

Ingredients:

1 ¼ oz. Captain Morgan Sherry Oak Finish Spiced Rum

¼ oz. Grand Marnier Liqueur

¾ oz. lime juice

2 dashes of bitters

Directions: Add all ingredients to an ice-filled rocks glass. Stir to blend and garnish with lime wedge. Created by Owl’s Brew.