Beer Day (Iceland)

Beer Day (Iceland), also known as Bjórdagurinn or Iceland Beer Day, is celebrated on March 1 to commemorate the end of Iceland’s 74-year prohibition on beer. The ban began on January 1, 1915, and strong beer became legal again on March 1, 1989. (Wikipedia)

Iceland’s prohibition had already been partly relaxed for other alcoholic drinks, but beer remained excluded. After years of failed efforts, Iceland’s Parliament finally approved beer sales by a 13–8 vote in the upper house. Since then, Beer Day has been observed in bars, restaurants, and clubs throughout the country. Celebrations are particularly lively in Reykjavík, where a Rúntur—a pub crawl through several bars—is a popular way to experience different beers. The occasion has also inspired a similar event in the United States known as Iceland Beer Day, or IBD.

How to Observe Beer Day (Iceland)

Celebrate by enjoying a beer responsibly, exploring different Icelandic beers, or learning about the country’s long journey from prohibition to legalization. If you are in Iceland, visit a bar, restaurant, or club taking part in the festivities. In Reykjavík, you can experience a Rúntur by visiting several bars—just arrange a safe way to get around and home.

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