National Beer Day (United States)

National Beer Day
Observed by	United States
Type	National
Date	April 7

National Beer Day is observed annually on April 7th in the United States. This day commemorates the day when the Cullen-Harrison Act was enacted in 1933, which legalized the sale of beer with an alcohol content of up to 3.2% by weight, marking a significant step towards the end of Prohibition in the country.

History

File:Prohibition agents destroying barrels of alcohol.jpg

Prohibition agents destroying barrels of alcohol

During the Prohibition era in the United States, which lasted from 1920 to 1933, the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages were prohibited. This period was characterized by the rise of illegal speakeasies and the illegal production of alcohol, often referred to as "moonshine."

However, on March 22, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Cullen-Harrison Act into law, which allowed the sale of beer with an alcohol content of up to 3.2% by weight. This act was a significant step towards the eventual repeal of Prohibition, as it marked the first time in over a decade that alcoholic beverages were legally available for purchase.

On April 7, 1933, the Cullen-Harrison Act went into effect, and people across the country celebrated the return of legal beer. Thousands of Americans flocked to breweries and bars to enjoy a cold beer legally for the first time in years. This day became known as National Beer Day and has been celebrated annually ever since.

Celebrations

National Beer Day is celebrated in various ways across the United States. Many breweries and bars organize special events, such as beer tastings, brewery tours, and beer-themed parties. It is also common for people to gather with friends and family to enjoy a few beers together.

In recent years, the craft beer movement has gained popularity, and National Beer Day has become an opportunity to showcase and celebrate the diverse range of beers produced by small, independent breweries. Beer enthusiasts often use this day to explore new beer styles and support local breweries.

Impact

The enactment of the Cullen-Harrison Act and the subsequent celebration of National Beer Day played a significant role in the eventual repeal of Prohibition. The public's positive response to the legalization of beer demonstrated that the demand for alcoholic beverages was still strong, and it helped pave the way for the ratification of the 21st Amendment to the United States Constitution, which officially repealed Prohibition on December 5, 1933.

See also

• Prohibition in the United States
• Beer
• Craft beer
• Brewery

External links

• History.com - 8 Things You Should Know About Prohibition
• CraftBeer.com - Official Website of the Brewers Association