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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!

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January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEJanuary 17

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

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!

TIMELINE

National Bootlegger’s Day Timeline

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.

Rise of Bootlegging

During the Prohibition era, illicit activities like bootlegging — the illegal production, transportation, and sale of alcohol — became widespread.

Infamous Bootleggers

Notorious figures like Al Capone make a fortune through bootlegging during the Prohibition era.

Repeal of Prohibition

The 21st Amendment was ratified, repealing Prohibition and ending the bootlegging era.

Templeton Rye Distillery

Templeton Rye, known as the "good stuff" during Prohibition, resumed legal production in Templeton, Iowa.

First National Bootlegger’s Day

Templeton Rye Distillery established National Bootlegger’s Day to be celebrated annually on January 17th.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Bootlegger’s Day

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.

WATCH

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.

EXPLORE

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.

LEARN

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.

CREATE

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 THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Bootlegger’s Day

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.

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.

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.