- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every March 31
- Holiday emoji:
- 🥂
National Après Day arrives every March 31, encouraging everyone to celebrate the completion of their daily adventures, whether it’s conquering a mountain or simply finishing a challenging workday. This holiday reminds us to gather with friends, enjoy a refreshing drink, and make lasting memories. So, raise a glass, share your stories, and Après Responsibly!
Want to sponsor National Après Day? Learn how
History of National Après Day
The word après comes from the French “after,” and is commonly used in American ski culture as “après ski,” which often means to socialize and enjoy a few drinks after a long day of skiing on the mountain. The history of après-ski can be traced back to the early 20th century when skiing became a popular sport in the Alps. Today, après-ski is a major part of the ski culture in many parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Japan.
In recent years, the National Après Day celebration has become a way to honor this cherished tradition by encouraging people to embrace the social aspects of skiing. It invites winter enthusiasts to gather with friends and family, enjoy seasonal beverages, and share stories of their skiing adventures.
National Après Day timeline
Skiing originates in Scandinavia and is introduced in the United States.
The après ski culture begins in the Alps as skiing gains popularity.
Après-ski becomes a significant part of ski resorts' offerings in Europe and North America, with lively gatherings featuring food, drinks, and entertainment following a day of skiing.
Breckenridge Distillery sponsors the National Après Day and the first celebration takes place. If you want to become a sponsor, learn how.
National Après Day FAQs
When is National Après Day?
In 2027, National Après Day will be observed on Wednesday, March 31. This annual observance encourages everyone to embrace the joy of unwinding after any activity.
What does 'Après' mean?
The term ‘après’ originates from French, signifying ‘after.’ On National Après Day, it refers to the tradition of unwinding and enjoying good company, typically with food and drinks, following any kind of adventure or daily endeavor.
How is National Après Day celebrated?
To celebrate National Après Day, individuals are encouraged to embrace the spirit of unwinding. This might include gathering at a local bar, hosting a small get-together at home, or simply enjoying a quiet moment with a favorite drink after a productive day.
What are popular drinks for National Après Day?
For National Après Day, a wide array of beverages can enhance the celebratory mood. Classic choices range from light beers and ciders to more sophisticated options like a Negroni or a glass of sparkling wine. The key is a drink that helps you relax and enjoy the moment.
How To Celebrate National Après Day
Hit the slopes
Gather your loved ones and head to the nearest ski resort for a day on the slopes. Afterward, visit the resort's après ski bar or restaurant and wind down with a few drinks and laughter.
Enjoy indoor winter sports
If you can’t make it to the slopes, consider indoor activities like ice skating at a local rink instead. This way, you can still have fun and enjoy the spirit of winter.
Host a cozy happy hour
Invite friends and family over for a cozy happy hour featuring your favorite drinks and snacks. This is the perfect opportunity to relax and bond over laughter and good company.
5 Facts About Skiing
Skiing has a patron saint
St. Bernard of Montjoux, who lived in the 11th century, is the patron saint of skiing, as well as of the Alps, snowboarding, hiking, backpacking, and mountaineering.
The first ski film
"The Holy Mountain" (Der Heilige Berg), a 1926 German silent movie, is recognized as the first ski film.
Ancient skis were covered in animal hair
To avoid sliding and to create friction, ancient skiers covered the bottoms of their wooden skis with animal hair.
A need for speed
Downhill skiing is the fastest non-motorized sport.
The country with the most ski resorts
Germany has almost 700 ski resorts.
Why We Love National Après Day
It celebrates YOU!
It doesn't matter where you are or what rad things you’re doing, you can Après anywhere, anytime.
It goes beyond après ski
You don’t have to ski to enjoy the mountain après scene. Whether you’re mountain biking, surfing or performing live music, you can après anything.
It is for everyone, anywhere
You can après in a ski coat or après while you float. You can après in the park, and even après after dark.