GUIDE - Celebrating National Tequila Day in Orlando

Tequila is an alcoholic beverage made from the blue agave plant, originating in either the 14th or 16th century, depending on which source you refer to. Today, there are well over 1,000 registered tequila brands from more than 150 producers worldwide, with the Jaliscan Highlands of Mexico generally considered to be the point of origin.

In Mexico, the tradition is to drink tequila "neat", while many of us Gringos are known to slam back a shot with salt and lime. With craft cocktails becoming such the in thing, it seems that our boozy innovations have caught flight, and tequila is no stranger to the creative party. From clever cocktails and classic margs to tasteful flights and traditional shots - here's your guide to celebrating National Tequila Day in Orlando on July 24th.

Cocina 214 - 151 E Welbourne Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789

Contemporary Tex-Mex dining with signature margaritas and innovative tequila drinks.

Paddlefish -  Disney Springs 1670 Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Seafood-centric paddleboat restaurant at Disney Springs offering a classic margarita and the "Not Everyone's Margarita".

98Forty Tapas & Tequila - Rosen Centre Hotel 9840 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

Experience forty premium tequilas and an assortment of shareable plates

Wall Street Cantina - 19 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Famous for Taco Tuesdays, but a Cantina-rita is fine any day of the week!

Agave Azul - 4750 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32811

It's no coincidence that they are named after the blue agave plant! Aside from the extensive tequila selection, they offer tequila-infused menu items featuring shrimp, chicken, and bacon.

Reyes Mezcaleria - 821 N Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Extensive list of mezcal and tequila with fine Mexican fare in the North Quarter District.

Chela Tequila & Tacos - 183 S Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801

Upscale spot offering global fusion small plates, margaritas and palomas in a minimalist setting. Go for the guava marg!

Felipe Rodriguez Tequila House - 900 E Washington St, Orlando, FL 32801

Brand new eatery and tequila house offering traditional Mexican food, brunch, a cocktail menu, and an entirely separate tequila menu which offers all four "types" of tequila: mezcal, anejo, blanco, and reposado.

Rocco's Tacos & Tequila Bar - 7468 W Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819

Not to gloss over the fabulous tacos, but there are over 400 varieties of tequila here - also known as the WALL of tequila.

Don Julio Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar - 551 S Chickasaw Trail, Orlando, FL 32825

Assortment of margs, including "popsicle" margaritas - or opt for a tequila flight (massive selection).

La Cava del Tequila - Epcot, Walt Disney World

The grandaddy of all things tequila in the Orlando-area, La Cava del Tequila in Epcot's Mexico Pavilion is about as good as it gets. Exceptional selection of tequilas, including exotic and rare labels. Exquisite flights and specialty cocktails, too - but this place is all about atmosphere. 

At the time of this writing, I've located a few noteworthy events to toss into the mix:

• Bahama Breeze - multiple locations - specials from June 21-27
• Chuy's - multiple locations - specials on July 24
• Tequila Tasting @ CityArts Orlando - July 26

And of course, it goes without saying that we now have not only Margaritaville at CityWalk, but the Margaritaville Resort in Kissimmee. You're bound to have an appropriate time at either of these locations! No matter how you take your tequila - or where - make it a great day, and don't blow out your flip-flops!