8 Ways to Celebrate Vernors’ 150th Birthday

You better believe Detroit’s going to celebrate. We suggest you celebrate, too. Here are 8 ways to do it:

Meet the Vernors gnome, join a Vernors scavenger hunt run, help break the record for most pop-drinkers and more at the anniversary party, June 11, at the Detroit Historical Museum (check out the calendar of events). You can purchase Vernors floats, cream ales and Boston Coolers, with proceeds supporting the purchase of a Vernors’ historical marker for Detroit.

Or, should we say, a Detroit Cooler? Add one 12 oz. can Vernors to a heaping scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect summer treat.

A float or a cocktail is the most popular concoction, but don’t limit yourself to liquids. Head to Pinterest and search for Vernors recipes, like Vernors Ginger Ale Spice Cake or Vernors Breaded Pork Loin Chops.

Impress your friends with Vernors’ history this month. It was invented by James Vernor at his pharmacy at Woodward and Clifford, then stored it in an oak cask for four years when he was called off to war in 1862.

A long list of Detroit restaurants will be serving up special menu items or cocktails using Vernors. Try a Ginger Amaro cocktail at Ottava Via or a Motown Mule at State Bar & Grill  Check out the full list of participating restaurants and bars.

The Detroit Experience Factory is hosting one on June 10 (sold out  “”  but get on the waitlist by calling 313-833-0277), or plan you own by visiting bars with tasty ginger concoctions.

In 2014, 7-Eleven announced it would start selling Vernors Slurpees in all of its Michigan stores.

Keep an eye out for Detroit buildings lit in green and yellow in honor of the Vernors anniversary, including a marquee at Cobo Center and an electronic message at The Detroit Opera House.