International Beer Day

International Beer Day History

International Beer Day is a global celebration dedicated to the appreciation of beer, diverse brewing traditions, and the bond that this popular beverage builds among friends and strangers alike. Honoring the craft of beer-making, this observance encourages beer lovers to explore different beer styles and flavors from various regions and countries around the world. Additionally, International Beer Day serves as an opportunity to thank the dedicated individuals who brew, distribute, and serve beer.

Founded in 2007 by Jesse Avshalomov in Santa Cruz, California, International Beer Day has since transformed into a worldwide event that resonates with millions of beer enthusiasts in over 200 cities across 80 countries. Apart from promoting the universal love for beer, this observance also highlights the booming US craft brewing industry. In recent years, the United States has witnessed a remarkable growth in microbreweries, becoming a leading hub for innovative and award-winning brews that embody the essence of American creativity, ingenuity, and passion for high-quality beer.

In America, International Beer Day is observed by organizing various beer-themed events such as tastings, food pairings, brewery tours, and special promotions at bars and restaurants. These events aim to foster a sense of camaraderie among beer lovers, while supporting local businesses and showcasing the best of American brews. It is an excellent opportunity for Americans to discover the rich and diverse world of beer in their own nation. International Beer Day is celebrated annually on the first Friday of August, making it an eagerly anticipated occasion for beer aficionados and casual drinkers alike.

International Beer Day facts

• International Beer Day began in Santa Cruz, California, 2007. It was founded by beer enthusiasts, Jesse Avshalomov and Evan Hamilton.
• As far back as ancient Egypt, beer was a staple food. Known as Hqt, heqet or heket, beer was a thick and sweet source of nutrition including vitamins, minerals and protein that was consumed daily by adults and children.
• In 2017, the Craft Brewing Industry Contributed $76.2 Billion to the U.S. Economy, producing over 500,000 Jobs.
• On average, a can of beer contains 100-150 calories and 10-15g carbohydrates.
• I work until beer o'clock - Stephen King

In the News and Trending in the US for International Beer Day

Top things to do in the US for International Beer Day

• Visit your local watering hole and try a new beer that you have never had.
• Try an international award-winning beer. The International Brewing Awards are recognize outstanding achievements in the brewing industry. The winners for 2015 include:
  1. Champion Dark Beer - Black Butte Porter, Deschutes Brewery Inc., Oregon, USA
  2. Champion Strong Beer - Brugse Zot Dubbel, Brouwerij De Halve Maan, Bruges, Belgium
  3. Champion Specialty Beer - Red Chair NWPA, Deschutes Brewery Inc., Oregon, USA
  4. Champion Keg Ale - Revisionist Rye Pale Ale, Marston’s PLC, Wolverhampton, UK
• Visit a local craft brewery in your state. Here are our top US picks a visit to:
  1) Dogfish Head, Milton, Del.
  2) Stone Brewing Company, Escondido, Calif.
  3) Founders Brewing Company, Grand Rapids, Mich.
  4) Oskar Blues, Lyons, Colo. and
  5) Lagunitas Brewing Company, Petaluma, Calif.
• Watch a flick that pays tribute to Beer. Our top picks: Oktoberfest (1987), Beer Wars (2009), Strange Brew (1983), Beerfest (2006)