National Repeal Day

National Repeal Day History

National Repeal Day recognizes the end of Prohibition in the United States. This day memorializes the reestablishment of the legal production, distribution, and consumption of alcohol, which significantly impacted the nation's social, economic, and political landscapes.

The origins of National Repeal Day are rooted in the ratification of the 21st Amendment on December 5, 1933, which essentially repealed the 18th Amendment of the Constitution. The 18th Amendment had outlawed the manufacturing, sale, or transportation of intoxicating liquors within the United States in 1919. This era, known as Prohibition, lasted for a tumultuous 13 years, and significantly influenced the American public’s relationship with the government, and with alcohol itself.

National Repeal Day is more than a celebration of the ability to legally consume alcohol, it also represents acknowledgment of a critical shift in American legislation, the separation of state and federal laws, and the power of individual choice and responsibility. In addition, the repeal increased government revenues during the Great Depression through alcohol taxes and boosted the hospitality industry. National Repeal Day is celebrated annually on the 5th of December.

National Repeal Day facts

• During the era of prohibition, doctors were allowed to prescribe alcohol for medicinal purposes. They were also allowed to purchase it themselves for laboratory use.
• There were many bootleggers illegally manufacturing and importing alcohol during the time. Two famous federal agents, Izzy Einstein and Moe Smith, worked together to catch criminals. They made almost 5000 arrests between 1920 and 1925.
• The 18th Amendment was passed on January 16, 1919. This started the period of Prohibition. The 21st Amendment that ended it was passed December 5th, 1933.
• Despite the repeal of prohibition, some U.S. states continued to enforce state prohibition laws for several years. Mississippi was the last state to repeal prohibition, in 1966.

In the News and Trending for National Repeal Day

Top things to do for National Repeal Day

• Enjoy an alcoholic beverage and celebrate your constitutional right to do so.
• Make your own beer or moonshine. For beer, there are home brewing kits along with informative Guides. For moonshine, check out How to Make Moonshine.
• Watch a film about the prohibition era. Here are our suggestions:
  Live by Night (2016)
  Lawless (2012)
  The Untouchables (1987)
• Gather your family or close friends and experiment with creating prohibition-era cocktails. Research classic recipes like the Old Fashioned, Sidecar, or Bee's Knees, and serve them with appropriate glassware and garnishes.
• Prepare a dinner inspired by the cuisine of the 1920s and 1930s. Look for recipes that were popular during the prohibition era, such as Waldorf salad, deviled eggs, roasted chicken, or steakhouse classics.