The Rum Lab, event organizers known for their celebration of rum culture, will mark the 70th anniversary of the Piña Colada at the historic Caribe Hilton in San Juan, Puerto Rico—the cocktail’s reputed place of origin.
Scheduled from July 10th to 14th, the festivities promise a diverse array of activities and experiences. Commencing on July 10th, guests will be welcomed with complimentary Piña Coladas upon arrival, accompanied by lively performances from a Calypso band and DJs. The event will also feature the debut of the art show ‘El Sabor De Nuestra Piña’, curated by Sylvia Villafañe and showcasing works by local artists Carlos Dávila Rinaldi, Eduardo Cabrer, and Orlando Meléndez.
On July 11th and 12th, attendees can participate in seminars led by Rums of Puerto Rico’s ambassador. July 13th, recognized globally as World Rum Day, will feature a bartending competition hosted by Rums of Puerto Rico, where eight bartenders will vie to create a new cocktail that could rival the Piña Colada’s renown. Concurrently, a Piña Colada tasting experience will offer variations crafted with different rums from six to eight bars.
The week culminates on July 14th with a special performance by jazz musician Humberto Ramírez and an open bar for exclusive ticket holders.
Federico José Hernández, president of The Rum Lab, expressed excitement about the event, stating, “We are thrilled to collaborate with the Caribe Hilton in presenting this unique celebration. From Conrad Hilton’s vision to the Piña Colada tastings, the book signing of Puerto Rico Rum-Clopedia, live entertainment, and the bartender competition, attendees will enjoy an unforgettable experience celebrating the rich history and culture of Piña Colada and rum in Puerto Rico.”
The Piña Colada, reportedly invented by bartender Ramón ‘Monchito’ Marrero at the Caribe Hilton’s Beachcomber Bar on July 10, 1954, holds a significant place in cocktail history.
Established in 1949, the Caribe Hilton itself is commemorating its 75th anniversary this year.
Recently, The Rum Lab organized the inaugural Women Leading Rum conference in Madrid, underscoring its commitment to promoting diversity and innovation within the rum industry.
