Law enforcement on the lookout for impaired drivers on 'Blackout Wednesday'

WEST ASHLEY, SC (WCSC) - November 25 is more than just Thanksgiving Eve.
It's been dubbed, "Blackout Wednesday" or "Drinksgiving" due to excessive drinking.

Packed bars in Avondale showed crowds celebrating the day.

"I'm escaping from helping out in the kitchen at home," said Mike Bolchoz who was out with family. "So, coming out for a couple of drinks."

"Just grabbing some drinks with my sister," said Jessica Murphy.

"You don't want to cook the night before and then cook again," said Jim Olson, in town visiting family. "So, we're giving the kitchen a rest tonight."

Mike Bolchoz's son Michael Bolchoz says "drinksgiving" is a tradition for him and his sister.
They meet up with friends every year on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

"People that went to high school together come back and have a big time," said Michael Bolchoz.

Behind the fun is a serious message. 
SC Highway Patrol says the weekend holiday enforcement period began Wednesday evening and there will be several checkpoints set up throughout the state. 
Charleston Police Department and other law enforcement agencies say there are a lot more officers on duty to keep the roads safe.
It's a message that starts inside the bar.

"Know how to drink," said Bolchoz. "Know how to not drink. Know when to drink and when not to drink. And, never drink and drive."

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