Sake Day is observed worldwide every October 1, celebrating the Japanese alcoholic beverage known as sake. This holiday has been celebrated annually since 1978, when it was declared by the Japan Sake Brewers Association. The date marks the beginning of the sake brewing season, which lasts until April. Sake is made from fermented rice and is often referred to as Japanese rice wine, though its brewing process is more akin to that of beer, with simultaneous conversion of starch to sugar and sugar to alcohol. Traditionally, sake is served warm in small porcelain cups during a ceremonial setting. Originally a professional holiday for sake brewers, Sake Day has grown in popularity and is sometimes referred to as World Sake Day.