Straight edge (sometimes abbreviated as sXe or signified by XXX or simply X) is a subculture of hardcore punk whose adherents refrain from using alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs in reaction to the punk subculture’s excesses. Some adherents refrain from engaging in promiscuous or casual sex, follow a vegetarian or vegan diet and do not consume caffeine or prescription drugs. The term “straight edge” was adopted from the 1981 song “Straight Edge” by the hardcore punk band Minor Threat.

What is International Edge Day?

National Edge Day is a celebration founded by people who live straight edge lifestyles. The occasion has been observed annually on October 17 since 1999. The inaugural event, originally called Edge Fest, was held in Boston, Massachusetts. It is most prominent in Boston, but annual events are now held by individuals in U.S. states such as Georgia and California, and globally in cities such as Gothenburg, São Paulo and London. In later years it has become a holiday for people who live straight edge lifestyles not just a yearly concert.

Quick FAQ on straight edge and my straight edge lifestyle.

Q. Why did you follow a straight edge lifestyle?
A. My father is an alcoholic and I was also an alcoholic. I wanted to stop as I couldn’t control my binge drinking and I always loved the straight edge hardcore music. Everything fit perfectly.

Q. Did you use to drink?
A. Yes, I was a binge drinker usually drinking way too many drinks 10+ and would drink beer and spirits mainly.

Q. Can you claim being straight edge and start drinking again?
A. No, once you claim edge that’s it, you can’t go back otherwise you’ll be labeled as a fake, it truly is a way of life.

Q. What date did you claim being straight edge?
A. Saturday 17th of May 2025.

Q. What makes you straight edge?
A. I do not drink alcohol, use tobacco/vaping, and use recreational drugs or prescription drugs. I do not engage in promiscuous or casual sex, I follow a pescetarian diet and do not consume caffeine in excess.

Q. Can I still eat meat, drink caffeine, take prescription medicine and sleep around and be straight edge?
A. Yes, the main thing about straight edge is clean living and not self abuse by drugs. As long as you refrain from consuming alcohol, using tobacco/vaping, popping pills like their PEZ candy and being dependent on caffeine such as coffee or energy drinks you’re fine.