A little reason to celebrate

National Ranch Water Day

Drink · April 11

A day for ranch water, the simple Texas-style highball of tequila, fresh lime juice and sparkling mineral water served over ice.

National Ranch Water Day falls on Sunday, April 11, 2027. That is 166 days away.

Ranch water is a tall, cold drink made from three things: blanco tequila, fresh lime juice and sparkling mineral water. It is poured over ice, usually in a highball glass, and it is closely tied to Texas and the dry heat of West Texas in particular.

The appeal is how little it asks of you. There is no syrup, no shaker and no garnish beyond a lime wedge. The mineral water does most of the work, adding a salty, sharp fizz that makes the drink taste lighter than it is. Many people in Texas reach for Topo Chico, a Mexican mineral water with especially lively bubbles, though any firm sparkling water will do.

Some bartenders add a splash of orange liqueur, which nudges it toward a margarita. Others skip the glass entirely, drinking a little of the mineral water from the bottle and topping it up with tequila and lime right there. It is less a recipe than a habit, and people argue about the ratios.

It pairs well with food that likes lime: tacos, grilled corn, chips and salsa. A porch, a cooler and a warm evening are its natural setting.

For anyone skipping alcohol, the same glass of mineral water, lime and ice holds up on its own, and it is still very cold.

Ways to celebrate

Mix tequila, fresh lime juice and mineral water over ice in a tall glass.
Try a few brands of sparkling mineral water to compare their fizz.
Make an alcohol-free version with lime, mineral water and a pinch of salt.
Serve it alongside tacos or grilled corn on a warm evening.
Share your preferred ratio of tequila to lime with friends.

Dates

Year	Date
2026	Saturday, April 11
2027	Sunday, April 11
2028	Tuesday, April 11
2029	Wednesday, April 11
2030	Thursday, April 11

All national days on April 11

Also on April 11

Categories: Drink days