National Happy Hour Day

There is a period during the day when joy, that draught of liquid happiness, can be bought at a discount. Every bar in the world honors it, and every patron waits for it to enjoy their drinks with the knowledge of a purse not quite so much lighter as it might have been otherwise. In the best of establishments, the name itself is a misnomer, as it lasts for two or more, giving us all a chance to find that joy for a pittance. National Happy Hour Day celebrates this time and the moments of pure bliss it brings to its patrons.

History of National Happy Hour Day

We’re all familiar with it, having seen the advertisement at both bar and restaurant in every corner of the known world. But where did this term first begin, and how did it come to spread across the world? The first instance of the term is difficult to trace, as it was a common reference throughout the centuries, most notably in King Henry V by Shakespeare, where he states “Therefore, my lords, omit no happy hour that may be given furtherance to our expedition.”

As a reference to a particular time of entertainment, however, it can be traced to a much more specific date, in 1913 it originated from the United States Navy. It took only the length of World War I for the term Happy Hour to refer to all periods of indulgence, including smoking, wrestling, boxing, music, movies, and dancing. As a reference to a point of drinking, however, it made its appearance during the prohibition, the term “Happy Hour” referred to that time spent at a speakeasy before retiring to restaurants no longer able to serve alcohol.

How to Celebrate National Happy Hour Day

National Happy Hour Day is celebrated in the most wonderful and joyous of ways, retiring to your favorite establishment and partaking of the offerings of their Happy Hour. Be it food or drink, the simple hours spent in these places with friends and family can be a bright spot in an otherwise dark day or a tradition where friends gather under a common roof. If no such place exists near you, or alcohol is not to your liking, you can host a happy hour at your home at any time, gathering for movies, music, food, and companionship. All of these things are in the spirit of National Happy Hour Day and can become a tradition throughout the year.