As the October breeze turns pleasantly crisp, a glass of sake poured gently at a snack bar counter feels like the perfect reward for an autumn evening. Its clear sparkle seems to capture the season itself. Did you know that October 1st is “Sake Day”? Taking this opportunity to rediscover the charm of sake can make for a truly special way to spend your time. While imagining a night out at Snack Yokocho, why not learn a little more about sake? In this article, we’ll share why October 1st is called Sake Day, how well sake pairs with the world of snack bars, and highlight some sake events happening in October 2025. With this in mind, your autumn nights may feel even richer than before.

Why is October 1st “Sake Day”?

October marks the end of the rice harvest and the start of sake brewing with the year’s new rice. In the past, the sake brewing year was set to begin in October, making October 1st something like the “New Year’s Day” of sake brewing. Moreover, the 10th sign of the Chinese zodiac, Tori (酉), originally depicted a sake jar. For that reason, October, the “month of Tori,” has long been linked with sake. Building on this tradition, the Japan Sake Brewers Association officially designated October 1st as “Sake Day” in 1978. Since then, the date has been widely celebrated across Japan as a day to enjoy and appreciate sake.

The Comfortable Relationship Between Snack Bars and Sake

When you think of a snack bar, you might imagine Western liquors, but sake actually pairs wonderfully as well. For example, tasting different varieties in small portions—known as “measured pouring”—is a perfect style for enjoying sake casually at the counter. Sake also goes well not only with Japanese dishes but also with small snacks like cheese, nuts, or dried fruits. On top of that, conversations like “Which brewery is this from?” naturally start flowing, adding another layer of enjoyment. Just having sake on the table can make a night at a snack bar feel cozier and spark more lively conversation than usual.

Sake Events in October 2025

This October, several events across Japan will offer opportunities to enjoy sake:

• On October 1st, “Kanpai with Sake! 2025” will connect locations in Japan and overseas online for a simultaneous toast. Watching people raise their glasses around the world promises to be a special moment for sake lovers.
• In Kochi, “Tosa Sake de Kanpai! NAKAMA Zeyo!” offers a unique experience combining real-life and online participation, letting visitors fully enjoy local sake.
• In Akihabara, “Tokyo SAKE Collection 2025” will showcase rare sake varieties, providing a chance to experience sake culture right in the heart of the city.

Attending these events can give you even more topics to talk about at snack bars, enriching the conversation around sake.

Summary

October 1st, “Sake Day,” carries a long history, including the start of the brewing season and its connection to the zodiac sign Tori. Celebrating the day with sake at a snack bar can make every sip feel even more special. You can try various brands through measured pouring, pair them with snacks, and share stories about breweries with the bar’s staff or other customers. Visiting sake events across the country adds new experiences to share back at the snack bar, further sparking conversation. The combination of sake and snack bars creates a warm, enjoyable atmosphere on autumn nights—an experience worth savoring.