National Bootlegger's Day

Celebrated on 01/17/2026

Quick Fact

National Bootlegger's Day, celebrated on January 17th, marks the anniversary of the end of Prohibition in the United States in 1933. The day honors the resourceful individuals who illegally produced and sold alcohol during the 1920s, with many using creative methods like hiding distilleries in caves or under floorboards.

Origins and Establishment of National Bootlegger's Day

National Bootlegger's Day was established in 2015 by a group of American history enthusiasts and craft distillers to commemorate the repeal of Prohibition. The date, January 17th, was chosen because it marks the anniversary of the ratification of the 21st Amendment in 1933, which ended the nationwide ban on alcohol. The holiday aims to celebrate the rebellious spirit and ingenuity of bootleggers, who played a key role in shaping American drinking culture and the craft beverage industry.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Bootlegger's Day has grown in popularity, particularly among craft distilleries and speakeasy-themed bars. Celebrations often include special releases of moonshine or prohibition-era cocktails, educational events about the history of bootlegging, and costume parties where attendees dress as 1920s gangsters or flappers. Some communities host historical reenactments or tours of former speakeasies and hidden distilleries. The holiday has also become a platform for discussing the unintended consequences of prohibition, such as the rise of organized crime.

Facts & General Observations

• During Prohibition, it is estimated that over 500,000 illegal stills were seized by authorities, yet millions more remained hidden.
• The term "bootlegger" originally referred to smugglers who hid flasks of liquor in their boots while trading with Native Americans in the 19th century.
• According to a 2020 survey, 1 in 5 Americans have tried moonshine, and the craft distillery movement has revived many traditional bootlegging recipes.

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