Happy Hour - Basic Information

Basic Information

Typically, it is in the late afternoon Monday through Thursday, usually taking place at some period between 4 PM and 8 PM. Many bars also have a late night happy hour for afternoon shift workers from 10 PM-1 AM. This promotion is intended to boost business on what may otherwise be a slow day. In most cases the "happy hour" lasts longer than a single hour.

The term also is commonly used to describe the gathering of work colleagues at a restaurant or bar after work hours, possibly outside the usual period. or vice versa.

The specifics usually differ from country to country. In some European countries like the Netherlands, the price of an alcoholic drink is regulated, and selling them at half price is prohibited. During happy hour, a customer gets double the amount of drinks instead. In Italy, a customer often pays the same price or even more for the drink but is offered free fingerfoods. In the United States it typically entails finger foods and discounted drinks. In India, happy hour typically entails discounted drinks and appetizers, and in many establishments, customers may receive 1+1 free offers on drinks and appetizers..

Happy hour can also be referred to as the period prior to dinner, where appetizers and drinks are served at one's home.