For nearly a century, absinthe was an illegal substance in America and most of the world, blamed for everything from hallucinations and delirium to even violent rampages. Uncover how a French psychiatrist, ill-timed global temperance movement, and good ol' fashioned fake news caused this widely popular spirit to be banned until the 21st century. Join New York Adventure Club as we taste and learn our way through the (now legal) spirit of absinthe, all inside a 1921 townhouse in Midtown that is now home to the Church of Sweden. Led by Don Spiro, co-founder of the Green Fairy Society and one of the creators of New York's vintage scene, our unique experience at this intimate space in Manhattan will include: An overview of absinthe, from its creation by a French doctor living in Switzerland, to why it was banned in so many countries under false pretenses A primer on how absinthe is made and traditionally served (hint: no burning sugar cubes!) A tasting of several different absinthe varietals from around the world A complimentary absinthe cocktail to sip on while mingling with other adventurers Click here to see pictures from one of our last absinthe tastings! See you there! *While snacks will be provided, we recommend eating beforehand About Don If you've been to a Jazz Age party or a swinging vintage get-together in New York over the past decade, you can thank Don Spiro for helping to start the movement. Don moved to New York in 2005 after working in Hollywood for over 15 years — when he noticed the hot live jazz scene from the west coast was missing in the Big Apple, he began organizing his own vintage parties, quickly becoming the city's premier event organizer for everything Jazz Age. More recently, Don co-founded the Green Fairy Society, an organization dedicated to absinthe’s history, production, and use — swing by one of his monthly absinthe events to learn about this rare spirit from the industry's movers and shakers. Disclaimer Must be 21 or older. ID will be checked at door. Ticket price is for educational demonstration with complimentary beverage tastings. By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service. Categories: Historic Sites, Social More Info below.