What is National Beer Day?
National Beer Day is celebrated every year on April 7 in the United States, commemorating the enactment of the Cullen-Harrison Act in 1933. Signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on March 22, 1933, this act allowed the sale of beer with up to 3.2% alcohol by weight (approximately 4.05% by volume), a significant step toward ending Prohibition.
Historical Background
Upon signing the Cullen-Harrison Act, President Roosevelt famously remarked, “I think this would be a good time for a beer.” The law took effect on April 7, 1933, in states that had passed their own legislation permitting such sales. Unlike the Volstead Act, which limited alcohol to 0.5%, the Cullen-Harrison Act redefined “intoxicating beverages,” allowing beer with higher alcohol content, as 3.2% was considered non-intoxicating.
On April 7, 1933, eager crowds gathered outside breweries, some lining up the night before. An estimated 1.5 million barrels of beer were consumed that day, laying the foundation for National Beer Day. The night before, April 6, is now celebrated as New Beer’s Eve.
A Step Toward Repealing Prohibition
While the Cullen-Harrison Act did not end Prohibition entirely—that occurred on December 5, 1933, with the ratification of the 21st Amendment—it played a crucial role by amending the Volstead Act’s strict definitions. National Beer Day specifically honors this beer-related milestone and is distinct from Repeal Day, which is celebrated on December 5.
Origins of National Beer Day
National Beer Day was established in 2009 by Justin Smith of Richmond, Virginia, inspired by his friend Mike Connolly. Smith promoted the holiday through a Facebook page, gaining attention from Colorado Beer Examiner Eli Shayotovich. The holiday’s popularity grew when Untappd, a beer-tracking app, introduced a National Beer Day badge, rewarding users who logged a beer on April 7.
Why National Beer Day Matters
National Beer Day celebrates a pivotal moment in American history when the nation began to reclaim its cultural and economic connection to beer. It highlights the resilience of the brewing industry and the joy of shared traditions. Today, Americans mark April 7 by visiting breweries, enjoying craft beers, and toasting to freedom and community.
Cheers to National Beer Day! Here’s How to Celebrate in Style
National Beer Day on April 7th is the perfect excuse to raise a glass and enjoy your favorite brew! Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just love a cold one, here are some fun, Google-friendly ways to celebrate!
Visit a Local Brewery
Kick off the day with a trip to a nearby brewery like Warped Wing Brewing Company in Dayton! Enjoy their iconic Gamma Bomb IPA or Ermal’s Belgian Style Cream Ale, and soak in the vibes at their taproom. Many breweries host special events, tastings, or beer releases for National Beer Day, so check local listings for what’s brewing near you! #SupportLocal
Pair Beer with Delicious Food
Host a beer-and-food pairing party at home! Grab some house-smoked brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, or smoked wings—they pair perfectly with a crisp lager or hoppy IPA. Not sure where to start? Try a Fly Light Lager with a classic beef hot dog or a Magic Melon Watermelon Gose with spicy tacos for a zesty twist. 🍟
Enjoy Live Music with a Pint
Find a brewery or bar with live music to sip and groove! Recreate the vibes of Warped Wing’s Anniversary Bash with acoustic sets or DJ beats while enjoying a Superdelic Double IPA. Check out local spots for National Beer Day events—many feature live bands, trivia, or karaoke to keep the party going! 🎸
Host a Beer Tasting with Friends
Gather your crew for a DIY beer tasting! Pick a variety of styles like a Trotwood Lime, a SeñorWITa Mexican Style Witbier, or a barrel-aged Agave Spring Maibock. Add some Warped Seltzer or housemade soda for non-beer drinkers. Share tasting notes, vote for your favorite, and snap pics to share with #NationalBeerDay! 📸
Join a Beer Festival or Event
Look for National Beer Day festivals in your area! Many cities host craft beer fests with food trucks, games, and dozens of brews to sample. Can’t find one? Plan a brewery crawl with friends, hitting up multiple taprooms to try new releases like Gamma Juice IPA or a refreshing seltzer.
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