Why is Blackout Wednesday a thing?
Blackout Wednesday, also known as Drinksgiving, has become a popular tradition for many college students and young adults. It has gained momentum over the years and is now widely celebrated as a prelude to the Thanksgiving holiday. But why has this particular day become associated with excessive drinking and partying? Let's explore some reasons behind the rise of Blackout Wednesday.
1. The Long Weekend Break: Thanksgiving weekend typically offers a long break for most people, including college students. It is a time when many individuals return home to spend time with their families and enjoy a few days off work or school. Blackout Wednesday serves as a way to kickstart this extended break and celebrate with friends before embarking on the journey home.
2. Reunion with Old Friends: Thanksgiving often brings people back to their hometowns, providing an opportunity to reconnect with old friends who may now be scattered across different colleges or states. Blackout Wednesday acts as a catalyst for these reunions, giving friends a chance to catch up, reminisce, and have a good time together.
3. No Work or School the Next Day: One of the main reasons why Blackout Wednesday has gained popularity is because most people do not have work or school obligations the following day. With Thanksgiving being a national holiday, people can let loose and enjoy themselves without worrying about waking up early or being productive the next morning. This freedom from responsibility contributes to the allure of Blackout Wednesday.
4. Release of Stress: For college students, Blackout Wednesday often falls right before the start of final exams. The pressure and stress of impending tests can be overwhelming, and this day serves as a temporary escape from academic responsibilities. It provides an opportunity to blow off steam, relax, and have fun before diving into the intense studying period that follows.
5. Cultural Influence: The influence of popular culture cannot be ignored when discussing the rise of Blackout Wednesday. Movies, TV shows, and social media platforms often depict excessive drinking and partying as a norm during college years. This portrayal, although not always accurate, can influence young adults to participate in such activities. Blackout Wednesday may have gained traction due to its portrayal in media and the desire to fit into the college experience.
6. Social Pressure and Peer Influence: The desire to fit in and be part of the social scene can also play a role in the popularity of Blackout Wednesday. Many individuals feel pressured to participate in activities that their friends are engaged in, especially during college years when peer influence is strong. This could contribute to the widespread acceptance and celebration of Blackout Wednesday as a social norm.
7. Tradition and Ritual: Humans are creatures of habit, and traditions tend to form around specific events or occasions. Blackout Wednesday may have started as an informal gathering among friends, but over time, it has evolved into a widely recognized tradition for many young adults. People enjoy the familiarity and predictability of certain rituals, and Blackout Wednesday has become one of those anticipated events.
Blackout Wednesday has become a thing due to a combination of factors, such as the long weekend break, reunion with old friends, lack of work or school obligations the next day, the need for stress release, cultural influence, social pressure, and the development of a tradition. While excessive drinking is not encouraged or endorsed, it is essential to understand the underlying reasons behind the popularity of this event.