Prohibition Ends At Last! Party Time in Ferndale

Every year, millions of Americans turn 21 and celebrate their first opportunity to legally have a drink. During the holidays, many families serve wines and brandy while hosting and celebrating relationships; many couples share a drink on first dates. 

Drinking has become an average part of the American life.

This is the third year in which Goodfellows and downtown Ferndale venues become partners to celebrating the event that makes it all possible: Saturday, Dec. 4, is the 77th anniversary of the end of Prohibition.

What better way to celebrate the ability to legally drink booze than a night out on the town? And Ferndale is the hip place to be with some of the most-happening nightlife in the Metro Detroit area.

But on this night, thanks to the Goodfellows-Ferndale partnership, those who are out for a good time with a drink or two at bars will also have the opportunity to raise money for people who do not have a roof over their heads or food on their tables.  

The Goodfellows is a charity group that raises money for needy families during the holidays.

The large number of participating venues helps illustrate what's great about Ferndale: a commitment to bettering the community and caring for those in need.

"It grows each year," said Ferndale Mayor Craig Covey. "Last year, 10 bars participated, and this year it's 12."

Downtown restaurants get decked out for the occasion, and volunteers dressed in 1930s-style costumes will be circulating downtown with moonshine mugs to collect donations. 

Covey will be among the volunteers who dress up. "Last year, I wore a newsboy costume," he said.

While the holidays are always a time for giving, this event offers Ferndale patrons the chance to help others while enjoying a typical Saturday night out — before the real holiday stresses begin.

"People aren't overstressed because of the holidays during the Prohibition anniversary," said Covey. 

With dozens of charitable organizations vying for attention during the most generous season of the year, the success of this event is substantial. Last year, the event raised more than $3,300. That's money raised to feed, clothe and care for those in the Metro Detroit area who need it the most during these colder months.

Venues this year include , , , , Grasshopper Pub, , , , , , and . 

This year, celebrate your right to a drink by heading to one of the locations in downtown Ferndale for some Saturday night fun — and a little giving.

And, as always, drink responsibly. Walk home or have a designated driver.