March 31

National Après Day

A fun observance on March 31 celebrating apres ski culture by relaxing and socializing with drinks after a day of adventures, extended to any accomplishment anywhere.

Yearly Date

March 31

Observed in

United States

Introduction

Get ready to raise a glass and toast to National Après Day on March 31! This holiday may be unfamiliar to some, but it has been celebrated by ski enthusiasts and après-ski lovers for decades. "Après" is a French term meaning "after", and refers to the social activities that take place after a day of skiing or snowboarding. It's the perfect time to unwind, relax, and enjoy some good company with friends and family. So whether you hit the slopes or not, make sure to mark this fun holiday on your calendar and celebrate in style!

National Après Day Timeline

1800s

Origins of Skiing

Skiing itself, a prerequisite for après-ski, originated in Scandinavia and was introduced to the U.S. in the 1800s. Après-ski may have naturally evolved from this culture.

1950s

Rise of Ski Tourism

The 1950s saw a boom in ski tourism worldwide, particularly in European countries like France and Switzerland, where après-ski culture started to solidify.

1970s

Après-ski Culture Expands

By the 1970s, après-ski traditions had become a significant part of the ski culture in North America, popularized by returning vacationers and growing ski resorts.

1990s

Evolution of Après-ski Scene

The 1990s saw an evolution of the après-ski scene with growing culinary and music influences, creating a vibrant social environment at ski resorts around the globe.

2001

National Après Day Establishment

In 2001, National Après Day was established to give recognition to the après-ski tradition, officially observed on March 31 every year.

How to Celebrate National Après Day

1 Host an après ski party

Gather your friends and family and throw a fun après ski party! Serve hot cocoa, mulled wine, and other warm drinks, and have everyone bring their favorite winter snacks to share.

2 Take a winter hike

Celebrate National Après Day by going on a scenic winter hike. Bundle up and enjoy the snowy landscapes, and then reward yourself with a warm drink or meal at a nearby lodge or restaurant.

3 Visit a local ski resort

If you live near a ski resort, take the day to visit and enjoy some skiing or snowboarding. After hitting the slopes, head to the resort's après ski bar or restaurant for some well-deserved relaxation and drinks.

4 Have an indoor picnic

Not a fan of the cold? Stay warm indoors and have an après ski-themed picnic. Set up a faux snow scene with blankets and pillows, and serve winter snacks and drinks while watching a ski-themed movie.

5 Take a hot tub soak

After a long day of skiing or hiking, relax and unwind in a hot tub to celebrate National Après Day. Add in some bubbles and a glass of wine for the ultimate après ski experience.

Why We Love National Après Day

It's a celebration of the end of the day

Après Day gives us an opportunity to relax and unwind after a long day of work or school. It's a chance to gather with friends or family and enjoy some drinks and snacks in a cozy setting - either at home or at your favorite bar!

It celebrates the tradition of après ski

Originating from ski culture in Europe, après ski is all about relaxing and having fun with friends after a day on the slopes. National Après Day gives us a chance to celebrate this tradition and bring it to all types of activities - not just skiing!

It encourages taking time for self-care

With busy schedules and constant distractions, it can be hard to prioritize self-care. But National Après Day reminds us to take a break, recharge and indulge in activities that bring us joy - whatever they may be!