Why Do Bars Have Happy Hours?
There's no denying that Happy Hour is a great way to blow off steam after a long day of work, but where did it come from? How did Happy Hour come to be such a widely embraced social activity across the Western world? In this blog, we explore the origins of happy hour and how it's evolved over the years.
Where did Happy Hour come from?
The first recorded Happy Hour was in a Navy circular from 1919. It stated that officers could enjoy "mixed drinks for two hours before dinner", and it was created to boost morale among troops during World War I. The term "Happy Hour" wasn't actually used until later on, in the 1930s. It's thought to have originated from aviation circles, where pilots would meet up for drinks after their flights.
The concept of Happy Hour eventually evolved into a social event where people would gather to drink and mingle after work. Today, you can celebrate the tradition at a Happy Hour rooftop bar in Melbourne CBD, a riverside pub in London, and everywhere in-between.
How to make the most out of your Happy Hour experience:
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Arrive early to snag a good spot with your friends. Happy Hours tend to get crowded, so it's always good to arrive early to get a seat at the bar or table.
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Start with something light. If you're planning on drinking alcohol, it's always best to start with a beer or wine before moving onto cocktails or hard liquor.
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Pace yourself. It can be easy to drink too much during Happy Hour, so make sure you pace yourself and drink plenty of water in between alcoholic beverages.
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Make new friends. Happy Hour is the perfect opportunity to socialise and meet new people, so don't be afraid to strike up a conversation with someone new.
Fun facts about Happy Hour
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Did you know the term "Happy Hour" was first used in print in 1921?
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Despite the singular use of the word, Happy "Hour" is typically from 4 to 6pm on weekdays.
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Happy Hour is a great time to reap the benefits of discounted food and drinks in restaurants and bars (especially in CBD's, where many people work 9-5 and then seek a social drink with colleagues after work).
Join the century-old tradition of Happy Hour
A quick Google search should reveal bars near you that participate in Happy Hour traditions during the workweek. Why not speak to a few friends or colleagues and tee up a Happy Hour gathering to blow off some steam at the end of your workday?
