How Early Does Iowa Think It’s OK For The First Drink?

It's five o'clock somewhere.  That's a way Iowans can justify a day drink. But when is too early to pour that first drink?

And does that early time show that there might be more underlying problems with alcohol in the state?

Does Iowa Have A Drinking Problem?

“While the idea of daytime drinking may be romanticized by the phrase ‘It's five o'clock somewhere,’ we have to recognize the potential dangers and consequences associated with this practice,” says Rebecca Hill of Zinnia Health. “Regularly consuming alcohol before 5 pm can be a slippery slope towards unhealthy drinking habits and alcohol dependence. The normalization of daytime drinking in social contexts may make it more challenging for those struggling with alcohol abuse to seek help, as they may feel that their behavior is socially acceptable. It is crucial for people to be mindful of their drinking habits and to seek support if they find themselves regularly reaching for a drink before 5pm.”

Now that the PSA is out of the way, when does the average Iowan give the green light for a drink?

Time For A Drink In Iowa?

The average Iowan considers 2:02 pm the green light for libations. However, this perception varies greatly depending on location. Wyoming residents are ready to toast at noon, claiming the title of the earliest drinkers in the nation, whereas North Dakotans and Montanans patiently wait until the stroke of 4:30 pm.

But There Are Exceptions To Start Day Drinking Earlier

2:02 pm might be a fine "average" but let's think about the times that are late in the day.  If the Hawkeyes have an 11:00 am kickoff you can have a bloody and Busch before noon.  Or even in the NFL season having a drink for a noon kickoff is acceptable.

38% of respondents said weekends were a judgment-free zone.  Just like holidays where 36% found it acceptable to sip something spirited one to two hours earlier than usual.

The kind of drink also makes a difference.  Tequila shots at 10:00 am?  OK...maybe not.  26% agree that lighter options like wine and beer might precede the harder stuff, with spirits saved for later.

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17% of respondents said they would raise their glass in a toast and continue drinking, while another 22% would politely explain the "five o'clock somewhere" philosophy when given the side-eye glance.  Another 16% would invite the onlooker to join them in their revelry. 9% would choose to ignore the glares and continue drinking, and 36% might decide to set their glass aside.

Most of us though aren't just drinking to get hammered with daytime drinking. 60% of respondents in the survey said they would not drink alone before 5:00 pm.

So whenever you are reading this remember it's five o'clock somewhere and it's ok to get off your phone, grab a friend, and drink responsibly.