Date
Friday
Jan
17

January 17

National Bootlegger’s Day

Raise a glass and honor the rebel spirits of the past on National Bootlegger's Day - cheers to those who defied prohibition!

Yearly Date
January 17
Type
Day

Introduction

Get ready to raise a glass and celebrate National Bootlegger's Day on January 17! This day commemorates the era of Prohibition in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933. During this time, bootleggers were known for illegally producing and selling alcohol, often using creative methods to sneak it past law enforcement. While the Prohibition may be long gone, this holiday serves as a reminder of an interesting period in American history and allows us to appreciate our freedom to enjoy a good drink. So let's toast to the bootleggers of the past and enjoy our favorite beverages without any restrictions!

National Bootlegger’s Day Timeline

1919
Passing of 18th Amendment
The 18th Amendment was ratified, initiating the Prohibition era in the United States, prohibiting the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages.
1920s
Rise of Bootlegging
During the Prohibition era, illicit activities like bootlegging — the illegal production, transportation, and sale of alcohol — became widespread.
1920-1933
Infamous Bootleggers
Notorious figures like Al Capone make a fortune through bootlegging during the Prohibition era.
1933
Repeal of Prohibition
The 21st Amendment was ratified, repealing Prohibition and ending the bootlegging era.
2007
Templeton Rye Distillery
Templeton Rye, known as the "good stuff" during Prohibition, resumed legal production in Templeton, Iowa.
2016
First National Bootlegger’s Day
Templeton Rye Distillery established National Bootlegger’s Day to be celebrated annually on January 17th.

How to Celebrate National Bootlegger’s Day

1

Host a Prohibition-themed party

Get creative and throw a party inspired by the Prohibition era. Encourage guests to dress up in 1920s attire and serve bootlegger-inspired cocktails and snacks.

2

Watch a gangster movie marathon

Celebrate National Bootlegger’s Day by watching classic gangster movies like The Godfather, Scarface, or Goodfellas. Make it even more fun by dressing up as your favorite character.

3

Explore a speakeasy

Find a hidden speakeasy bar in your city and experience what it was like to drink during the Prohibition era. Enjoy some bootlegger-style cocktails and soak up the atmosphere.

4

Learn about bootlegging history

Take some time to research and learn about the history of bootlegging and Prohibition. Visit a museum or read books and articles to deepen your understanding.

5

Create your own bootlegger-inspired cocktail

Put your mixology skills to the test and create a unique cocktail inspired by the Prohibition era. Get creative with ingredients and give it a catchy bootlegger-inspired name.

Why We Love National Bootlegger’s Day

A

It celebrates an important part of American history

National Bootlegger's Day falls on the anniversary of the end of prohibition in the United States. This holiday is a tribute to all those who defied the law and continued to produce and distribute alcohol during the 1920s.

B

It's a chance to learn about bootlegging

On Bootlegger's Day, you can discover the stories behind famous bootleggers like Al Capone and George Remus. You can also learn about the impact of prohibition on society and how it paved the way for modern-day organized crime.

C

Bootlegging is a part of our cultural identity

Even though it was illegal, bootlegging played a significant role in shaping American culture - from jazz music to speakeasies. By celebrating National Bootlegger's Day, we recognize the impact that this underground activity has had on our society.

National Bootlegger’s Day Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jan 16
Monday
2024
Jan 16
Tuesday
2025
Jan 16
Thursday
2026
Jan 16
Friday
2027
Jan 16
Saturday