National Kool-Aid Day

National Kool-Aid Day on August 21 is a branded drink mix holiday tied to Hastings, Nebraska, where Edwin Perkins developed Kool-Aid. Treat the brand name as a trademark on packaged mix.

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About National Kool-Aid Day

History & origins

National Kool-Aid Day is commonly listed on August 21. The drink’s origin is clearer than the holiday’s: Perkins created the powder in Hastings, Nebraska, after working with a liquid concentrate. Kraft Heinz now owns the brand.

Why it matters

The date is a piece of Midwestern food-industry history as much as a kids’ punch recipe.

How to celebrate

Mix a pitcher of drink mix, try a nostalgic flavor, or read how Perkins reduced a liquid concentrate to a powder in Hastings.

Facts

Edwin Perkins developed Kool-Aid in Hastings, Nebraska
The powder mix grew out of a fruit-concentrate product called Fruit Smack
August 21 is used as National Kool-Aid Day on popular calendars

Upcoming dates

Friday, August 21, 2026
Saturday, August 21, 2027
Monday, August 21, 2028
Tuesday, August 21, 2029
Wednesday, August 21, 2030

Frequently asked questions

When is National Kool-Aid Day in 2026?

National Kool-Aid Day in 2026 falls on Friday, August 21, 2026.

Where did Kool-Aid start?

Hastings, Nebraska, with Edwin Perkins.

Who started the food day?

The August 21 label is a popular calendar date; do not invent a private founder beyond the product’s documented history.

How do you celebrate?

Mix a pitcher or visit Hastings-related history if you are in Nebraska.

Help others discover this day by sharing it.

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