National Beer Day is celebrated in the USA every year on April 7, marking the day that the Cullen–Harrison Act was enacted after having been signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on March 22, 1933. This led to the Eighteenth Amendment being repealed on December 5, 1933, with ratification of the Twenty-first Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. April 6, the day prior to National Beer Day, is known as New Beer’s Eve.
Upon signing the legislation, Roosevelt made his famous remark, “I think this would be a good time for a beer.” The law went into effect on April 7 of that year in states that had enacted their own law allowing such sales. The beer could contain up to 3.2% alcohol by weight compared to the 0.5% limit of the Volstead Act, because 3.2% was considered too low to produce intoxication.
People across the country responded by gathering outside breweries, some beginning the night before. On that first day, 1.5 million barrels of beer were consumed, inspiring the future holiday. Today, April 7 is recognized as National Beer Day and April 6 is known as New Beer’s Eve.
The Cullen-Harrison Act was not the official end of prohibition in the US (that happened on December 5, 1933 when the 21st Amendment was ratified). What the Cullen-Harrison Act did do was redefine an “intoxicating beverage” under the Volstead Act. As such, April 7 is a beer specific holiday and should not be confused with Repeal Day celebrated on December 5.
How Modern National Beer Day Began
The holiday as we know it today was revived in 2009 by Justin Smith from Richmond, Virginia. Inspired by Iceland’s National Beer Day (celebrating the end of prohibition there on March 1), Smith and his friend Mike Connolly learned about the 1933 date and created a Facebook group to promote it. The idea spread quickly, and people began using #NationalBeerDay to celebrate.
It has since gained broader recognition:
- In 2017, Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe proclaimed it, and it was noted in the Congressional Record.
- Breweries, bars, and beer enthusiasts now mark the day with specials, tastings, and toasts.
Why It Matters Today
National Beer Day isn’t just about drinking—it’s a reminder of how policy changes can affect everyday life, the economy, and personal freedoms. It helped pave the way for the resurgence of American brewing, which eventually led to today’s vibrant craft beer scene (the U.S. now has thousands of breweries, compared to near-zero legal ones during Prohibition).
The day is typically observed by enjoying a beer (or two), visiting a local brewery, or simply raising a glass to history. April 7 falls on different weekdays each year, but the spirit remains the same.
If you’re celebrating today (or whenever you read this), here’s to legal beer and the lessons from history! 🍺 What’s your go-to beer for the occasion?
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