September 20th marks National Punch Bowl Day, and there's no better excuse to gather your crew and raise a bowl of something bold, tropical, and shareable. From ancient origins to modern tiki traditions, punch has always been about celebration—and at Trader Vic’s, we put our own spin on this time-honored ritual.
Where Did “Punch” Come From, Anyway?
The word “punch” is widely believed to come from the Hindustani word panch—meaning “five”—a nod to the original five ingredients used in the drink:
🍋 Spirits
🍋 Lemon or lime juice
🍋 Sugar
🍋 Water
🍋 Tea or spices
In the early 1600s, British sailors and East India Company merchants brought this exotic new beverage home from India, where it quickly became a party staple among the elite and adventurous alike.
Punch Bowls in Polynesian Culture
While punch made waves in Europe, communal drinking bowls were already a deep-rooted tradition in other parts of the world. In ancient Polynesia, ceremonial luau drinks were often served in large, festive bowls—meant for sharing, storytelling, and connection.
The Trader Vic’s Take: Bowls Built for Celebration
At Trader Vic’s, we honor the punch bowl’s legacy with tiki-style cocktails made to share. These festive drinks are meant to bring people together, spark conversation, and bring a little adventure to your night out.
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Scorpion Bowl – A citrus-forward rum punch with a sting of strength
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Kava Bowl – Tropical and tangy, perfect for sipping with friends
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Tiki Bowl – Bold, boozy, and made to turn heads (and light fires)
Each one is served in our signature ceramic bowls, with garnishes as eye-catching as the drinks are delicious.
How to Celebrate National Punch Bowl Day
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Gather your crew – Punch is best shared
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Pick your bowl – Scorpion, Kava, or Tiki—we won’t judge
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Raise a ladle – And toast to tradition, culture, and a good time
Big bowl. Bigger vibes.
Celebrate National Punch Bowl Day the Trader Vic’s way—because nothing says aloha like a drink you can share.
