A century ago, Iceland banned all alcoholic drinks. Within a decade, red wine had been legalised, followed by spirits in the 1930s. But full-strength beer remained off-limits until 1 March 1989. When full prohibition became law 100 years ago, alcohol in general was frowned upon, and beer was especially out of favour – for political reasons.

Iceland was engaged in a struggle for independence from Denmark at the time, and Icelanders strongly associated beer with Danish lifestyles. It didn’t take long for Prohibition to be undermined. Smuggling, home-brew and ambassadors lobbying for alcohol to oil the wheels of diplomacy all played a part. Finally, in 1988, Iceland’s parliament, the Althing voted to legalise beer, after debates that were televised live and attracted huge audiences.

Text from the article Why Iceland banned beer by Megan Lane via BBC. Click here to read the full article.

Icelanders celebrating March 1st 1989, when the 70 year beer prohibition in Iceland was lifted.

If your in Iceland on March 1st make sure to drop by the English Pub Reykjavík as we always have a special offer celebrating “Bjórdagurinn” Beer day.