Legal Drinking Age Day

Legal Drinking Age Day is an annual holiday that celebrates responsible drinking and sobriety. The occasion day is not merely a nod to the legalities surrounding alcohol consumption. Indeed, it also reflects society’s attitude shift about alcohol consumption.

Legal Drinking Age Day intertwines legal frameworks with cultural narratives. Thus, it offers a unique opportunity to understand the concept of responsible drinking better.

History of Legal Drinking Age Day

The roots of this occasion connect with the complex history of alcohol regulation in the United States. The story of Legal Drinking Age Day begins in the early 20th century, in the Prohibition era (1920–1933). For about thirteen years, federal authorities implemented a nationwide ban on alcohol. It was not legal to manufacture, sell, or transport any alcoholic beverages. This era became famous for a new lifestyle of speakeasies and bootlegging. It also revealed the country’s complicated relationship with alcohol.

The federal government repealed Prohibition in 1933. Instead of federal oversight, states received the autonomy to set their drinking laws. State regulation created a complex patchwork of legal drinking age laws, which varied from state to state. The turning point came in the 1980s. That decade brought with it an ever-growing concern over drunk driving fatalities, particularly among younger people. The outrage over the rising death tolls led to the 1984 passage of the National Minimum Drinking Age Act. The bill was championed by groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and signed into law by President Ronald Reagan on July 14, 1984. The act effectively mandated that all states raise the legal drinking age to 21. States that did not comply would receive a stout penalty — a reduction in federal highway funds.

Interestingly, the choice of July 21st as National Legal Drinking Age Day is a nod to the birthday of the legendary author Ernest Hemingway, He was well-known for his adventurous life and love for a good drink, with a strong preference for his signature drink, a daiquiri-like cocktail called the Hemingway Special. 

How to Celebrate Legal Drinking Age Day

Celebrating National Legal Drinking Age Day can be both fun and meaningful. Those indulging in alcohol, be sure to book an Uber! Here are some whimsical (but responsible!) ways to mark this occasion:

Hemingway-Themed Cocktail Party

Host a party featuring cocktails from Hemingway’s era or mentioned in his books. Let each drink tell a story, from the classic Daiquiri to the robust Whiskey Sour. From the speakeasies of the Roaring Twenties to the adventurous life of Hemingway, everyone will undoubtedly find an adventure worthy of a cocktail.

Mocktail Competition

For those under 21 or anyone who prefers non-alcoholic options, a mocktail-making contest can be a delightful way to become immersed in the day’s spirit. Creativity is critical. So think of unique ingredients and some fun names!

Historical Pub Crawl

Organize a pub crawl on Legal Drinking Age Day. Visit local historical bars or speakeasies. While everyone enjoys their drinks, share stories about how each establishment navigated the changing legal landscape of alcohol in America.

Responsible Drinking Workshop

Partner with local organizations to host an educational workshop on responsible drinking. It’s a great way to raise awareness about the importance of moderation and the impact of alcohol on communities.

Host a Hemingway Movie Night

Several of Hemingway’s classics became box office hits! These not classic movies tell timeless stories. They include: “The Old Man and the Sea,” “A Farewell to Arms,” “For Whom the Bell Tolls,” “To Have and Have Not.” Stream these movies and pair them with a good cocktail or two for a fun night, responsibly tucked away at home.

DIY Infusion Kits

Get creative with DIY infusion kits for spirits. These make great gifts and are a fun way to experiment with flavors. Think beyond the traditional. Anyone up for a Hemingway-inspired rum with hints of grapefruit and coconut?

Literary Toasts

Invite book-loving friends over for a reading of Hemingway’s works. If Hemingway’s not to everyone’s taste, consider other authors or stories from the Prohibition era — F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” for example. Raise a glass and toast with quotes from these literary giants.

Visit a Distillery or Brewery

Take a tour of a local distillery or brewery to learn about the art and science that goes into brewing and making alcohol. It’s a great way to appreciate the craftsmanship behind some of those favorite libations.

Social Media Challenge

Start a social media challenge where participants share photos of their legal first drink and a story or a toast to responsible drinking.

Alcohol-Free Day

Instead of celebrating Legal Drinking Age Day with alcohol, there’s also the option to observe the day by abstaining from alcohol. Many use this day to consider alcohol and its role in society and personal life. This option is a great way of supporting those who choose sobriety.