National Happy Hour Day

National Happy Hour Day is celebrated in the United States on November 12 and is the perfect excuse to gather your friends and visit your favorite restaurant or bar. Most bars and pubs offer great discounts on drinks and appetizers, so why not enjoy a cozy evening out and save some money at the same time?

History

The phrase “happy hour” is hard to trace, but its use as a time for entertainment likely dates back to 1913. During Prohibition in the U.S., “happy hour” became a way to describe private gatherings where people could enjoy drinks before heading to dinner. Although National Happy Hour Day is not an official holiday, many have tried to make it one, and it is widely celebrated across the country.

Interesting Facts

• After the first glass of alcohol, the brain starts to react in about 6 minutes.
• Roughly 30% of all alcoholic beverages consumed globally are homemade.
• The world’s strongest beer, “Snake Venom,” contains 67.5% alcohol by volume.
• Red wine generally has a higher alcohol content than white wine, as red grapes contain more sugar.
• A bottle of champagne contains over 49 million bubbles and is pressurized like a car tire.
• Some studies suggest that humans have been making alcohol since the Neolithic period.
• The fear of an empty glass is called cenosillicaphobia.

How to Take Part

Check out local bars and pubs for special happy hour deals, and bring your friends along for some discounted fun. Or, host your own happy hour party at home and make it as lively as you wish!

When is National Happy Hour Day in 2025?

National Happy Hour Day is observed on November 12 each year.

Observations