The history of alcoholic beverages dates back thousands of years. The many ways to make intoxicating drinks and the reasons to consume them have changed over time. Along with liquor’s rise came criticism that resulted in the banning of alcohol and a willingness among some to break the law all to get a sip. But how much do you really know about the Prohibition era and what it meant for people of the time?

This summer, the West Baton Rouge Museum will welcome the National Endowment for the Humanities traveling exhibit “Spirited: Prohibition in America” from June 25 to August 14. In conjunction with the exhibit, the museum will host a series of events that relate to the exhibit’s theme:

The Speakeasy Soiree will take place at the museum this Saturday, July 23, from 7 to 9 p.m. There will be live jazz music, period cocktails and tours of the “Spirited” exhibit. Flapper-style period dress is encouraged but not required. Admission is free and open to anyone 21 and up.

On Thursday, July 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. there will be a home brewing event with Taylor and Samantha Pellerin, creators of the home brewing company C’est Bon Biere. They started brewing as a hobby but now travel to fairs, festivals and competitions to teach and learn more about home brewing. Attendees will learn the science and technology required to make a good batch of home-brewed beer. The event is free and open to patrons age 21 and older.

The Rum Run Bus Trip will conclude the “Spirited” events on Friday, August 5, with a journey packed full of spirits and cuisine. This bus trip will include a tour of the Abita Brewery, lunch at Middendorf’s and a tour of the Donner Peltier Rum Distillery to educate attendees on how various spirits are made. The cost for the all-inclusive bus trip is $80, and spots are limited.

For more information on the events or to purchase tickets, visit westbatonrougemuseum.com or call (225) 336-2422.