National Vodka Day at Hurricane Hanks: Celebrate with Classic Cocktails on Anna Maria Island

Raise a Glass This Saturday, October 4th, 2025

Mark your calendars and clear your schedule, because **this Saturday, October 4th, 2025**, is **National Vodka Day**—a celebration of one of the world’s most versatile and beloved spirits. At **Hurricane Hanks**, the iconic pub and grill nestled in the heart of **Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island**, we’re ready to raise a glass with you in style.

Whether you’re a fan of a classic **Vodka Martini**, a refreshing **Moscow Mule**, or one of our inventive house cocktails, Hurricane Hanks offers a full vodka experience that’s perfect for honoring this spirited holiday. Our fully stocked bar features a curated selection of top-shelf vodkas and local favorites, all served with the laid-back island hospitality that keeps visitors and locals coming back for more.

The Storied History of Vodka

Vodka’s roots run deep into Eastern Europe, with both **Russia and Poland** claiming ownership over its origins. The name itself is derived from the Slavic word *voda*, meaning “water,” and historically, vodka was prized not just for consumption, but for medicinal and even cosmetic use.

In the early 1400s, vodka was a rudimentary spirit often used for antiseptic and medicinal purposes. But by the 17th century, it evolved into a more refined drink enjoyed during social and religious occasions. Vodka eventually made its way westward, and by the 20th century, it had taken America by storm, especially during and after World War II when brands like **Smirnoff** popularized the spirit with inventive marketing and cocktail recipes.

Fast forward to today, and vodka has become a staple of modern mixology, known for its neutral flavor that allows it to blend effortlessly with fruit juices, herbs, citrus, spices, and more. Its adaptability is exactly what makes vodka so beloved at restaurants like Hurricane Hanks, where it’s the base of some of our most popular cocktails.

Vodka’s Popularity in the U.S.

Since the 1950s, vodka has reigned supreme as one of America’s favorite spirits. In fact, vodka outsells every other spirit in the U.S. by volume. Its neutrality makes it an ideal base for a wide array of cocktails, from brunch-time **Bloody Marys** to post-dinner **Espresso Martinis**.

Millennials and Gen Z have brought new life to vodka consumption through elevated craft cocktails and flavored vodkas—think cucumber, vanilla, citrus, and pepper infusions. At Hurricane Hanks, we’ve embraced this evolution, offering a diverse lineup of vodka-based cocktails that celebrate both timeless classics and modern twists.

Vodka Selections at Hurricane Hanks

At Hurricane Hanks, we proudly offer a variety of top-quality vodkas, ranging from classic labels to small-batch artisanal distillers. Some of our most popular vodka brands include:

• Tito’s Handmade Vodka – A fan favorite and always a hit in our Basil Gimlet
• Grey Goose – Smooth, refined, and perfect in a Vodka Martini
• Ketel One – Crisp and clean, great in a Cucumber Vodka Tonic
• Stolichnaya (Stoli) – The classic choice for a Moscow Mule
• Deep Eddy Flavored Vodkas – Lemon, Grapefruit, and Orange for vibrant island cocktails

Whether you’re in the mood for something bold or something refreshing, our vodka lineup is ready to deliver.

Vodka Cocktails to Try This National Vodka Day

Here are a few vodka-forward cocktails that are a must-try when you join us at Hurricane Hanks:

1. Basil Gimlet

Our **Basil Gimlet** is a showstopper, combining Tito’s Handmade Vodka with fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and muddled basil leaves. This herbaceous and zesty drink is as photogenic as it is delicious.

See the Basil Gimlet here →

2. Cucumber Vodka Tonic

A refreshing classic with a twist. We start with **Ketel One**, add fresh cucumber slices, a splash of tonic water, and a hint of lime. Light, crisp, and ideal for a sunny island afternoon.

3. Lemon Drop Martini

The **Lemon Drop Martini** is a sweet-tart blend of Deep Eddy Lemon Vodka, triple sec, and lemon juice, served with a sugared rim for a decadent yet refreshing treat.

4. Classic Bloody Mary

Start your weekend brunch right with our **Classic Bloody Mary**, a savory mix of vodka, tomato juice, and house spices. It’s garnished with olives, celery, and a little kick of island flavor.

5. Espresso Martini

End your meal with a bang. Our **Espresso Martini** is a rich blend of vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur. It’s the perfect pick-me-up and nightcap all in one.

What Pairs Best with Vodka Cocktails at Hurricane Hanks

The beauty of vodka lies in its flexibility. It plays well with a wide range of flavors, making it a perfect companion to many dishes on the Hurricane Hanks menu. Here are some curated pairings for your National Vodka Day celebration:

Vodka Martini + Shrimp Cocktail

The smooth and briny elegance of a vodka martini is perfectly complemented by the fresh, chilled shrimp and zesty cocktail sauce of our **Shrimp Cocktail Starter**.

Moscow Mule + Grouper Sandwich

The ginger-lime brightness of a **Moscow Mule** brings out the savory, flaky character of our legendary **Grouper Sandwich**, served grilled, blackened, or fried to your liking.

Basil Gimlet + Asian Chicken Salad

The herbal profile of the Basil Gimlet pairs beautifully with the nutty sesame and ginger notes of our **Asian Chicken Salad**, creating a light and flavor-packed duo.

Espresso Martini + Key Lime Pie

Pair the velvety smooth Espresso Martini with our house-made **Key Lime Pie** for a dessert course that balances zingy citrus with rich coffee decadence.

Check out our desserts here →

Why Celebrate National Vodka Day at Hurricane Hanks?

Located in the heart of **Holmes Beach on Anna Maria Island**, Hurricane Hanks is more than just a restaurant—it’s a gathering place. Our laid-back island vibe and elevated pub fare make us a perfect spot to relax, unwind, and celebrate all things vodka.

Our skilled bartenders don’t just pour drinks—they craft them. From muddling herbs to fresh-pressing juices, every cocktail is made with care. And with our extensive vodka selection, there’s something for everyone—whether you like it shaken, stirred, spicy, sweet, or somewhere in between.

We also pride ourselves on our **friendly service**, **locally sourced ingredients**, and a menu that balances comfort food with creative flair.

Pro Tips for Enjoying Vodka Like a Pro

If you’re planning to celebrate National Vodka Day at home or with friends, here are a few quick tips to enjoy vodka like a connoisseur:

• **Chill your vodka** – Vodka is best served cold. Keep your bottle in the freezer for the perfect silky sip.
• **Use quality mixers** – Fresh juices and herbs make a world of difference.
• **Don’t overdo it** – Vodka goes down easy, but moderation is key to a great night (and next morning).

Want to explore more about vodka’s global history and mixology trends? Check out these great reads:

• Liquor.com: All About Vodka
• VinePair’s Vodka Guide

Join Us This Saturday and Say “Na Zdorovie!”

Whether you’re sipping something citrusy, kicking back with a classic martini, or digging into a hearty island entrée, **Hurricane Hanks** is the place to celebrate **National Vodka Day 2025**. Bring your friends, toast to tradition, and let our incredible food and drink pairings elevate your weekend.

We’ll be pouring all day and mixing up your favorites at the bar. And if you haven’t tried the **Basil Gimlet** yet… what are you waiting for?

Explore the full drink menu here →

Final Toast

Here’s to vodka—an international icon that’s equally at home in a Moscow Mule mug or a sleek martini glass. And here’s to **Hurricane Hanks**, where every cocktail tells a story and every dish is crafted with heart.

**Happy National Vodka Day!**