National Mimosa Day: May 16 Is Your Excuse to Brunch Like You Mean It

It’s not just a brunch drink. It’s the brunch drink. And on May 16, we celebrate it in style: National Mimosa Day.

Light, bubbly, citrusy, and just boozy enough to feel fancy without trying too hard, the mimosa is what happens when champagne stops taking itself so seriously and decides to hang out with orange juice.

So yes—today’s the day to raise a glass to a drink that’s equal parts effortless and iconic.

Where Did the Mimosa Even Come From?

Like all good stories involving alcohol, the origin of the mimosa is a little fuzzy.

The most widely accepted story traces it back to 1925 at the Ritz Hotel in Paris, where bartender Frank Meier combined equal parts chilled champagne and orange juice. Whether he invented it or just gave it a name, we thank him either way.

Fun fact: The mimosa’s name likely comes from the bright yellow mimosa flower, a nod to its sunny color and equally sunny personality.

Why the Mimosa Became a Brunch Legend

Sure, a mimosa is easy to make—but don’t mistake that for being basic. There’s a reason it owns the brunch menu and gets its own holiday:

• It’s light and refreshing
• It pairs with sweet or savory dishes
• It feels a little luxurious but doesn’t break the bank
• You don’t need a bar cart—just two ingredients and a glass

In other words, it’s the drink that shows up early, looks great in photos, and doesn’t overstay its welcome.

How to Make the Perfect Mimosa

There’s no official rulebook (that’s part of the charm), but here’s how to keep it classy:

• The Ratio: 1 part orange juice to 1 part dry sparkling wine. Some go heavier on the wine, others the juice—your call.
• The Bubbles: Go for a Brut sparkling wine, Cava, or Prosecco. Save the vintage Champagne for a different party.
• The Juice: Fresh-squeezed is best, but no judgment if it’s from a bottle. Just make sure it’s not from concentrate.
• The Glass: Flute if you’re being fancy. Anything else if you’re not.

And if you want to take it up a notch?

Try these easy upgrades:

• Add a splash of Grand Marnier or triple sec for a boozier brunch.
• Swap the OJ for blood orange, pineapple, mango, or grapefruit.
• Garnish with a sprig of mint or slice of orange for that Instagram moment.

Perfect Mimosa Pairings

You know what makes a mimosa even better? A plate of food that can keep up. Some winning combos:

• Eggs Benedict
• Belgian waffles with berries
• Smoked salmon bagels
• Avocado toast with chili flakes
• Quiche Lorraine or veggie frittatas

If it’s on a brunch menu, chances are it goes great with a mimosa.

How to Celebrate National Mimosa Day

This is your sign to not skip brunch today.

• Host a DIY Mimosa Bar – Offer different juices, fresh fruit, and bubbly options. Let people mix their own.
• Surprise Co-Workers (Responsibly) – A lunchtime mimosa with co-workers? Only if the boss is cool with it.
• Brunch with Friends – Extra points for patio seating and a menu full of carbs.
• Post and Tag – Document your mimosa moment. The hashtag #NationalMimosaDay is surprisingly active.

Mimosas aren’t just for influencers and Sunday brunchers. On May 16, everyone gets to sip and smile.

The Real Reason Mimosas Matter

Here’s the deal: life is full of meetings, deadlines, and messages that say “per my last email.”

Mimosas remind us to pause. To mix the bubbly with the bright. To take an ordinary morning and make it feel like something worth celebrating.

So whether you’re toasting with friends, sipping solo, or just enjoying the sunshine in your backyard, remember—National Mimosa Day isn’t about the drink. It’s about the moment.

And that moment is best served chilled.