The day before Thanksgiving, Blackout Wednesday or Drinks giving has become a cultural phenomenon in the U.S. For many, it’s a night to unwind after traveling, reunite with old friends, and escape the holiday chaos. However, while the tradition brings excitement, recognizing its risks is also important.
Let’s examine Blackout Wednesday’s origins, popularity, precautions, and tips for making the night enjoyable and safe.
What Is Blackout Wednesday?
Blackout Wednesday falls on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. It’s a day when people flock to bars and pubs to catch up with hometown friends. This night of revelry has gained so much momentum over the years that it now rivals New Year’s Eve and St. Patrick’s Day regarding bar traffic.
For many, it’s a nostalgic tradition, bringing former classmates or friends together for drinks at their favorite local watering holes. Bars capitalize on the occasion with drink specials, ticketed events, and extended hours.
Why Is It So Popular?
- Reunions: People returning to their hometowns for Thanksgiving use this night to reconnect with old friends.
- No Work the Next Day: Most people have Thanksgiving Day off, giving them a rare midweek opportunity to party without worrying about work.
- Stress Relief: After long travel days or awkward family dynamics, many see a night out as a chance to decompress.
According to studies, bar liquor sales on Blackout Wednesday can increase by 156% compared to the prior week. Beer and cocktail orders rise by over 60%, making it one of the busiest nights of the year for bartenders and servers.
The Social Side of Drinksgiving
The atmosphere of Blackout Wednesday is unique. Bars are filled with people reminiscing, sharing laughs, and catching up on life updates. Many attendees see familiar faces from high school or college, creating a mix of excitement and nostalgia.
In cities like Orlando, bars like the World of Beer are hotspots where locals gather to socialize, and some even witness surprising moments like unexpected couples forming.
The Risks of Blackout Wednesday
While the night offers plenty of fun, being aware of the potential downsides is essential.
Over-Drinking
As the name suggests, many drinkers go overboard, leading to “blacking out” — a state where memory lapses occur. This can lead to severe hangovers, accidents, or risky behavior.
DUI Season
Blackout Wednesday starts what law enforcement calls DUI Season, from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. The risk of encountering a drunk driver on the road increases by 55% on this night. Police often set up DUI checkpoints to combat the surge in alcohol-related accidents.
Health Impacts
Heavy drinking isn’t just about waking up with a pounding headache. It can lead to:
- Vomiting and dehydration
- Seizures
- Depression
- Long-term issues like liver damage, high blood pressure, and mental health disorders
Staying Safe on Blackout Wednesday
- Plan Your Transportation: Arrange a ride with a sober friend, use a ridesharing app, or take public transport. Never drive after drinking.
- Pace Yourself: Stick to one drink per hour, and alternate with water or a non-alcoholic beverage.
- Eat Before Drinking: A full stomach helps slow the absorption of alcohol and reduces the likelihood of over-drinking.
- Keep an Eye on Friends: Stay together and ensure no one is left behind or overindulged to a dangerous level.
- Know Your Limits: If you feel tipsy, switch to non-alcoholic drinks and take a break.
Conclusion
Blackout Wednesday, or Drinksgiving, is a night to reconnect, celebrate, and kick off the holiday season. While it’s a beloved tradition for many, drinking responsibly and prioritizing safety is important.
Remember to pace yourself and plan whether to catch up with old friends or enjoy the festive spirit. With the right precautions, you can have a memorable night without the regrets of overindulgence.
Stay safe, enjoy responsibly, and make this Blackout Wednesday one to remember for all the right reasons.
FAQs
Why is Blackout Wednesday so popular?
It’s a chance for people to reunite with old friends before Thanksgiving. With no work the next day, socializing and having fun is a stress-free opportunity.
Is Blackout Wednesday dangerous?
It can be if precautions aren’t taken. Over-drinking and drunk driving are significant risks on this night. Responsible behavior is crucial to staying safe.
What are the most common issues on Blackout Wednesday?
Heavy drinking, DUIs, and alcohol-related injuries are the biggest concerns. Binge drinking can also lead to health problems.
How can I stay safe while enjoying the night?
Plan transportation, drink responsibly, and stick with a group of friends. Avoid overindulging, and keep an eye on those around you.
Do all bars participate in Blackout Wednesday?
Most bars, especially in suburban and small-town areas, see a spike in traffic on this night. To attract crowds, many offer drink specials or themed events.
READ MORE: 8 Changes Costco Customers Would Make If They Ran the Store