National Drinking Day

Two friends cheersing their glasses, wearing casual attire, in a vibrant bar scene filled with laughter.. — National drinking day illustration

Hey there, my thirsty friend! Welcome to the world of National Drinking Day. Prepare to raise your glasses high and salute the art of fermented beverages!

When is Drinking Day?

It's national drinking day on the 20th April.

The History of National Drinking Day

Have you ever wondered why we have a day dedicated to drinking? Well, let me enlighten you with a sip of knowledge. National Drinking Day, a celebration of all things boozy, has its roots in the ancient land of the Internet.

Back in 2007, a group of enthusiastic individuals gathered on an online forum to discuss their love for everything from fine wines to frosty beers. Their conversations about the art of drinking quickly gained popularity, capturing the attention of netizens far and wide.

As the years went by, people from all corners of the internet started joining the festivities. Soon enough, National Drinking Day became an annual tradition, observed on the 20th of April each year. It's a day to savor the tastes, enjoy the camaraderie, and give a respectful nod to the journey of libations throughout history.

How to Celebrate

Ready to pour yourself a glass of happiness? Here are a few ideas to get your celebration started:

Gather your loved ones, because drinking is always more fun with good company.
Try a new cocktail recipe or indulge in your favorite libation.
Host a tasting party with different types of alcohol and challenge your friends to guess the flavors.
Explore the rich history of your favorite beverages by reading up on the brewing process or watching documentaries.
Support your local breweries and wineries by visiting their tasting rooms or buying their products.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, always remember to drink responsibly and take care of yourself and those around you.

History behind the term 'Drinking'

2,000 BC

Ancient Beginnings

The history of drinking traces back to around 2,000 BC when the ancient Egyptians were known to consume beer and wine. The Nile Valley provided the fertile soil needed for growing barley and grapes, which were used to make these alcoholic beverages. Beer played a significant role in Egyptian culture and was even considered a staple in their daily diet.

Ancient times

The Dawn of Civilization

Drinking has been a part of human culture since ancient times. Archaeological evidence suggests that early humans began consuming alcohol as early as 7000 to 6000 BCE. The cultivation of cereal crops and the discovery of fermentation techniques allowed humans to produce beer and other alcoholic beverages.

5th Century BC

Cheers to the Greeks

In the 5th century BC, the ancient Greeks valued the social aspect of drinking. They introduced communal drinking cups called kylikes, which were passed around during gatherings. Wine was the drink of choice among the Greeks, who believed it had divine qualities. They even had a god of wine, Dionysus, who played a central role in their mythology.

4000 BCE

The Birth of Distillation

Distillation, the process of purifying liquids through heating and cooling, was developed by ancient civilizations such as the Mesopotamians, Egyptians, and Greeks. This method enabled the creation of stronger alcoholic drinks, including spirits like wine and brandy.

Middle Ages (5th to 15th century)

Monastic Brewing and Guilds

During the Middle Ages, monastic brewing played a significant role in the preservation and advancement of brewing techniques. Monasteries became centers of brewing knowledge, and monks were known for their brewing skills. Additionally, guilds emerged as associations of brewers, regulating the quality and production of alcoholic beverages.

9th Century AD

The Birth of Distillation

The 9th century AD marked a breakthrough in the history of drinking with the invention of distillation. Islamic alchemists developed the process of distilling alcohol, allowing for the production of stronger spirits like brandy. This innovation spread across the Middle East and later made its way to Europe, revolutionizing the world of drinking.

18th Century

Rise of Cocktails

The 18th century witnessed the emergence of cocktails. The term 'cocktail' originated in America and referred to a mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. This era saw the creation of classic cocktail recipes that are still popular today, such as the Old Fashioned and the Martini. Cocktails became symbols of elegance and sophistication.

1492

Exploration and Global Spread

The age of exploration in the 15th century led to the global spread of various alcoholic beverages. European explorers, like Christopher Columbus, brought plants such as grapes and sugarcane from the Americas, leading to the production of new types of alcoholic drinks like wine and rum.

18th Amendment (1920)

Prohibition Era

In the United States, the 18th Amendment to the Constitution resulted in the prohibition of alcohol from 1920 to 1933. This led to the rise of illegal speakeasies and the illicit production of alcohol. Prohibition had a significant impact on shaping attitudes towards drinking and paved the way for organized crime involvement in the alcohol trade.

20th Century

Prohibition and Speakeasies

The 20th century was marked by the era of Prohibition in the United States. From 1920 to 1933, the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages were illegal. This led to the rise of secret bars known as speakeasies, where people could gather in secret to consume alcohol. Prohibition had a profound impact on drinking culture and gave rise to the clandestine and rebellious nature of speakeasies.

21st Century

Craft Beer and Mixology Renaissance

The 21st century witnessed a renaissance in drinking culture. Craft beer became increasingly popular, with microbreweries and homebrewing gaining traction. The rise of mixology brought renewed creativity to cocktails, with bartenders experimenting with innovative ingredients and techniques. This era also saw a growing emphasis on responsible drinking and the development of alcohol-free alternatives to cater to a wider audience.

Present Day

Diverse Drinking Culture

Today, drinking has evolved into a diverse and varied culture worldwide. Each country and region has its unique drinking traditions and customs. From wine to beer, whiskey to sake, people celebrate and socialize through shared drinking experiences. The modern craft beer movement and the revival of traditional brewing techniques highlight the ongoing innovation and appreciation for alcoholic beverages.

Did you know?

Did you know that according to ancient Egyptian mythology, the goddess Hathor was believed to be the patroness of beer and wine? So, the next time you raise a glass, you can thank Hathor for her divine inspiration!