Blackout Wednesday: The Biggest Bar Night of the Year In Mass.

Forget New Year's Eve or St. Patrick's Day. The busiest bar night of the year happens the night before Thanksgiving, and it's called "Blackout Wednesday" or "Drinksgiving."

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving has become a massive party night across Western Massachusetts. College students return home for break and reunite with high school friends at local bars. Young professionals who moved away come back to visit family. Everyone has the same idea: grab drinks with old friends before the family gathering.

It's actually a great night to hook up with that girl or boy you had a crush on in high school. You may be surprised by your old interest's recent glow up! I've done it.

Bars throughout Massachusetts see their biggest crowds of the year on this night. It rivals or even surpasses traditional party holidays like New Year's Eve.

Why is it so popular? Most people have Thanksgiving Day off from work, so there's no worry about waking up early. It's also the perfect chance to catch up with people you haven't seen in months or even years. The holiday creates a natural reunion moment that doesn't exist any other time of year.

Party Safely

But the night comes with serious risks. Police departments across Massachusetts increase patrols on Blackout Wednesday to combat drunk driving.

To help keep people safe, Uber and other ride share companies will be running extra cars in order to take advantage of the opportunity to pick up the more than usual volume of patrons.

If you're heading out Wednesday night, plan your ride home before you leave. Don't let a fun night with friends turn into a tragedy.