International Dark 'n Stormy® Day (June 9th)

Quick facts
When is it?	Every June 9th
Tagged as:	Alcohol Food & Drink
What's the hashtag?	#InternationalDark8216;nStormy®Day
When was it founded?	1980
Who founded it?	Goslings Brothers Ltd
We first published this page on:	Jun 12th, 2025
We last updated this page:	Jun 12th, 2025

Contents

International Dark ’n Stormy® Day kicks off with a nod to that bold cocktail—dark rum layered over fizzy ginger beer. This drink blends strong flavors in a tall glass that demands your attention.

You’ll sense its deep color and fizzy sparkle before you even take a sip. It feels like a celebration in your hand—a simple mix that speaks of rich taste and sharp refreshment.

On this day, fans of the drink around the world celebrate how it brings people together. It gives drinkers a moment to pause, share stories, and enjoy a break from the ordinary.

It honors a unique recipe that’s trademarked and linked to seafaring tradition. Whether at home or at a bar, raising a glass means joining a community that loves this spirited blend—and savors its lively kick.

How to Celebrate International Dark ’n Stormy® Day

Here are some fun ways to celebrate International Dark ’n Stormy® Day:

Host a Dark ’n Stormy Night

Gather friends and mix cocktails using the classic rum and ginger beer recipe. Layer the rum over ice for a dramatic look. Let everyone tailor their own garnish. This creates a relaxed vibe.

Sample a Ready‑to‑Drink Can

Try the official canned version in your kitchen or on the go. These come pre‑mixed and easy to pour. They deliver the trademark taste without measuring.

Try a Dark ’n Stormy Treat

Explore twists like sherbert or slushy variations that blend rum, lime, and ginger. These cold treats echo the drink’s bold layers.

Visit a Participating Bar

Check local bars or pubs for special drink menus or happy hour deals focused on this cocktail. You’ll enjoy a fresh take made by pros.

Experiment with Food Pairings

Serve spicy snacks or citrusy dishes alongside the cocktail. The drink’s ginger‑rum mix complements bold flavors. Guests will notice how well they match.

Share Your Storm on Social Media

Post photos or stories of your celebration, using event tags or hashtags. You’ll connect with others enjoying the same moment globally. Many brands encourage this.

Learn or Teach the Signature Mix

Explore the official method using Gosling’s Black Seal rum and Stormy ginger beer. Then show others the correct way to layer and garnish.

History of International Dark ‘n Stormy® Day

The Dark ’n Stormy® cocktail was born in Bermuda. In the 1920s, British naval officers mixed dark Goslings rum with homemade ginger beer. They claimed it helped with seasickness, but the bold flavor made it more than just medicine.

The drink’s name came from its look. Sailors said the dark rum floating above the ginger beer looked like a storm cloud over the sea.

Years later, Goslings Brothers Ltd.—the family-owned rum company—took steps to protect their creation. On June 9, 1980, they officially trademarked the name “Dark ’n Stormy®.”

This meant only drinks made with Goslings Black Seal Rum and ginger beer could carry the name. No other rum brand could use it for this cocktail. That move turned the mix into a signature product.

Goslings launched its own ginger beer in 2009, creating the perfect match for its dark rum. This gave them full control over the drink’s core ingredients.

International Dark ’n Stormy® Day was later created to celebrate this famous combo and its journey from a sailor’s cure to a barroom classic.

International Dark ‘n Stormy® Day