December 5 marks a historic moment in American history—Repeal Day, the anniversary of the day the United States said goodbye to Prohibition in 1933. After 13 dry years under the 18th Amendment, the passage of the 21st Amendment restored Americans’ right to legally produce, sell, and enjoy alcohol. Repeal Day isn’t just about cocktails and celebrations; it’s about the enduring triumph of individual freedoms and the joy of coming together to raise a glass.
Prohibition began in 1920 with the lofty goal of reducing crime, improving public health, and boosting morality. Instead, it gave rise to a booming black market, speakeasies, and legendary bootleggers like Al Capone. Americans, resourceful as ever, turned to creative measures to keep the booze flowing—whether it was crafting homemade moonshine or smuggling barrels of whiskey across borders.
By 1933, Prohibition had lost its fizz. The 21st Amendment made history by becoming the first and only amendment to repeal another. On December 5, bars across the country reopened, and Americans could finally sip their drinks without fear of a raid. It was a day of jubilation, marking a return to community gatherings and cultural vibrancy that alcohol often fosters.
How to Celebrate Repeal Day Today
Repeal Day is the perfect excuse to embrace the cocktail culture that Prohibition inadvertently inspired. Craft your favorite classic drinks, like a sidecar or an old fashioned, both popularized during the 1920s and ’30s. Visit your local speakeasy-style bar to soak up the ambiance of the era, or host a themed party with vintage attire, jazz music, and plenty of cheers. See Rare Book Bar or La Viuda Negra or Midnight Rambler
More than just a boozy celebration, Repeal Day reminds us of resilience, adaptability, and the importance of advocating for freedoms we hold dear. So, this December 5, raise your glass high—not just to cocktails, but to the enduring spirit of liberty and the joy of a shared toast. Cheers!
