During the early to mid-20th century in Iceland, savoring beer was effectively illegal until late in the century. The nation’s stance on alcohol hardened after a 1908 referendum, which showed broad support for prohibition, and led to a gradual tightening of laws. Initially, all alcoholic beverages were banned; wine entered legality in 1922, and spirits, with the exception of beer, followed in 1935. Yet beer remained off-limits for many more years.

The ban persisted because beer was seen as a symbol of Danish influence, a reminder of the period of struggle for independence. This cultural association reinforced the prohibition, making beer consumption appear unpatriotic for a long time. The change finally arrived on March 1, 1989, when beer could be legally enjoyed again, a milestone commemorated annually as Bjórdagur—“Beer Day.”