National Bootlegger’s Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about National Bootlegger’s Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. National Bootlegger’s Day is observed on January 17th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of National Bootlegger’s Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as intriguing facts you might want to know about National Bootlegger’s Day.

📅 What day is National Bootlegger’s Day 2024?

In 2024, National Bootlegger’s Day is on Tuesday, January 17th. It is the 3rd Tuesday in January; in 2024, it is Wednesday. There are until the next observance. You also can discover all the exciting details and facts about January 17, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

National Bootlegger’s Day, observed annually on January 17, is a special day that highlights significant historical events in the United States. These events include the initiation of prohibition, the creation of Templeton Rye whiskey, and the birth of the notorious mobster, Al Capone. What makes these occurrences fascinating is their interconnectedness. The implementation of prohibition led both Al Capone and farmers in Templeton, Iowa, to venture into the illegal production of whiskey, resulting in the renowned Templeton Rye whiskey. Throughout the Prohibition era, this whiskey gained immense popularity and became Capone’s preferred choice.

📜 National Bootlegger’s Day History

National Bootlegger’s Day was established by Infinium Spirits in 2015 to honor the creation of Templeton Rye, a whiskey produced by farmers in Templeton, Iowa during the prohibition era. Infinium Spirits sells Templeton Rye, and the whiskey’s rich history led to the establishment of its own special day.

The term “bootlegger” originated in the 1880s in the American Midwest. It referred to individuals who engaged in illegal liquor trade, often carrying flasks of whiskey in their boots. This practice was also adopted by the military, who concealed wine in their boots to bring alcohol into base camps. Over time, “bootlegger” came to denote any person involved in smuggling whiskey over land, while “rum-runners” referred to those who transported alcohol by sea.

Despite the imposition of prohibition on January 17, 1920, gangsters and other underworld figures were determined to continue their liquor-related activities. The 1920s are often associated with lavish parties filled with jazz and alcohol, and this legislation did not hinder such festivities. While some relied on bootleggers to transport alcohol from Canada and Mexico, Alphonse Kerkhoff took a different approach by involving farmers in Templeton, Iowa in both the distillation and sale of their own whiskey. The success of Templeton Rye led to the opening of more speakeasies in Omaha, Kansas City, and Michigan.

✅ National Bootlegger’s Day Facts

🔖 Moonshine was a killer
Moonshine, also referred to as “bathtub gin,” was a type of subpar alcohol produced in unprofessional settings, primarily homes. Tragically, this illicit concoction claimed the lives of nearly 10,000 individuals.

🔖 Prohibition inspired the booze cruise
People who resided near the coast had the opportunity to go on a boat and freely drink alcohol, leading to the concept of the “booze cruise.”

🔖 Alcohol consumption was legal
The act of consuming alcohol was permitted by law, but it was considered illegal to produce, sell, or transport alcoholic beverages.

👍 Why Is National Bootlegger’s Day Important

We all have a rebellious soul someplace deep within us, so the prospect of subversion is always fascinating. Bootlegging stories may be full of excitement and drama, so it’s great to immerse oneself in them, even if just for a day.

When Templeton Rye was originally smuggled, it was referred to as “the good stuff” in code. People now refer to it as “Capone’s whiskey.” Everyone now has the opportunity to relive the 1920s, when the wisdom was to “live life to the fullest, because you only get one.”

When we stop to think about it, the dangerous occupation of a bootlegger does not seem all that glamorous, but when viewed through the lens of history, it makes for good entertainment. It’s an opportunity to learn about the other side of history and make objective decisions for yourself.

🙂 How To Observe National Bootlegger’s Day

⚡ Learn more about bootleggers

⚡ Party like it’s 1920
Forget about the overdone Gatsby-themed parties that are losing their appeal. Instead, bring some excitement to your next 1920s-themed party by embracing the darker, more luxurious side of the prohibition era. Transport your guests to a world of hidden speakeasies, illegal alcohol, notorious gangsters, and, of course, the lively sounds of jazz. The planning is up to you, so have fun and get creative (here’s a pro tip: create a Pinterest board for inspiration)!

⚡ Crack open a bottle of your favorite drink
Whether it’s through excellent prohibition-era literature or viewing biopics on bootleggers and the Mafia, you’re likely to learn some new information that will leave you with a strange mix of nostalgia and exhilaration. We recommend watching “Prohibition,” a documentary, and “Boardwalk Empire,” a fictional and glitzy show.

📅 When is National Bootlegger’s Day?

See all 🔗 January holidays, including 🔗 Food & Beverage and other 🔗 Beverage holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and must-know facts about National Bootlegger’s Day. So be sure to check back soon.