National Beer Day in the United States is celebrated every year on 7th April, marking a major turning point in American history: the return of legal beer after 13 long years of Prohibition. The holiday honours both the cultural importance of beer and the resilience of the American brewing industry.
How National Beer Day Came About
The Prohibition Era
In 1919, the 18th Amendment banned the manufacture and sale of alcoholic beverages in the U.S. The Volstead Act defined “intoxicating liquors” that had anything above 0.5% alcohol, effectively outlawing beer.
The Cullen–Harrison Act
Everything changed on 22nd March 1933, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Cullen–Harrison Act, allowing the sale of beer up to 3.2% alcohol by weight. When signing it, Roosevelt famously said when signing the act: “I think this would be a good time for a beer.”
The law went into effect on 7th April 1933, and Americans celebrated by consuming an estimated 1.5 million barrels of beer that very day.
New Beer Day Eve
The night before, 6th April, became known as New Beer’s Eve, a festive prelude to the return of legal beer.
Modern Recognition
In 2009, beer enthusiasts Justin Smith and Mike Connolly launched a social media campaign that popularised the holiday nationwide. By 2017, National Beer Day was officially recognised in the Congressional Record and by the Virginia Governor.
Why National Beer Day Matters
National Beer Day is more than a toast, it’s a celebration of the end of Prohibition and the restoration of personal freedoms. This also brought the revival of the American brewing industry, which had been devastated during Prohibition and a craft beer revolution, now boasting over 8,000 breweries across the US.
The day is also a reflection of community and culture, as breweries and pubs serve as gathering places. This covers agriculture and manufacturing, since beer production supports farmers, maltsters, and countless small businesses.
The Beers Celebrated on National Beer Day
National Beer Day doesn’t honour just one type of beer, it celebrates the full spectrum of American brewing. Here are the major categories people enjoy on 7th April:
1. Lagers
Crisp, clean, and refreshing.
Examples: Pilsners, Helles, American light lagers.
2. Ales
Known for their fruity, complex flavors.
Examples: Pale ales, IPAs, brown ales, Belgian ales.
3. Stouts & Porters
Dark, rich, and roasty—perfect for those who love depth.
Examples: Oatmeal stout, milk stout, robust porter.
4. Wheat Beers
Smooth and often citrusy.
Examples: Hefeweizen, witbier, American wheat beer.
5. Sour & Wild Ales
Tart, funky, and adventurous.
Examples: Gose, Berliner Weisse, lambic-inspired ales.
6. Craft & Experimental Brews
The U.S. craft beer scene is known for creativity:
- Barrel-aged beers
- Fruit-infused ales
- Hazy IPAs
- Pastry stouts
- Hybrid styles
7. Historic & Local Favourites
Many celebrate with beers tied to American brewing history, such as:
- Schaefer Beer, a classic low-ABV lager with roots in 19th-century New York.
How Americans Celebrate
This can be done by visiting local breweries and taprooms, and places that are hosting beer tastings. The day gives an opportunity to exploring new craft beer styles and checking in beers on apps like Untappd (which created a special badge for the holiday). Whilst raising a glass to the end of Prohibition and the freedom to enjoy a cold brew.
Final Thoughts
National Beer Day is a uniquely American celebration, one that blends history, culture, and the joy of sharing a drink with others. Whether you prefer a crisp lager, a bold IPA, or a rich stout, 7th April is the perfect day to explore the incredible diversity of beer and toast to the freedoms restored in 1933.
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