May 8 – The Birthday of Coca-Cola

Every year on May 8, millions of people celebrate the birthday of Coca-Cola. Often referred to as “Coke” in English-speaking countries, Coca-Cola is a carbonated soft drink produced by The Coca-Cola Company.

The History of Coca-Cola

In the late 19th century, John Pemberton invented Coca-Cola at his Eagle Drug and Chemical House store in Columbus, Georgia. Initially, Pemberton intended to patent the drink as a medicinal remedy. However, Asa Griggs Candler acquired the business, and his marketing strategies led to Coke’s dominance in the global soft drink market throughout the 20th century.

Coca-Cola Timeline

  • May 8, 1886: Coca-Cola is sold for the first time as a tonic during the Temperance Movement in the United States. The main ingredients of the original Coca-Cola were three parts coca leaves (from which Albert Niemann isolated cocaine in 1859) to one part kola nut. At the time, cocaine was not yet a banned substance.
  • 1891: Coca-Cola is bottled for the first time at the Biedenharn Candy Company in Vicksburg, Mississippi.
  • 1894: The first outdoor wall advertisement for Coca-Cola is painted in Cartersville, Georgia.
  • 1914: The Fliman Pharmacy in Atlanta opens, featuring the world’s longest-operating Coca-Cola soda fountain, which became a historic landmark for both Atlanta and Coca-Cola. The pharmacy operated until 1995, closing after 81 years.
  • 1944: On July 12, The Coca-Cola Company produces its one-billionth gallon (3.79 liters) of Coca-Cola syrup.
  • 1955: The company introduces Coca-Cola in cans for the first time.

Ways to Celebrate Coca-Cola’s Birthday

There are countless ways to mark Coca-Cola’s birthday on May 8. Enjoy your favorite Coca-Cola product while exploring the company’s fascinating history. Learn about collectible items such as caps, bottles, cans, and labels, and discover which ones hold real value. You can also try making cocktails with Coke or enjoy frozen Coca-Cola treats. Don’t forget about Diet Coke and other unique flavors from the Coca-Cola lineup!