International Beer Day
Sharing laughs with friends over a refreshing, bubbly, golden pint is a classic recipe for good times and memorable moments.
For anyone who wants to take even a little glance around their city, one of the staples that can always be found is a good bar, a friendly pub or a busy night club.
Whether a person is in rural Ireland, busy Hong Kong, the backwoods of Canada or even in the United Arab Emirates, there is always someplace to have a brewski.
And this day is perfect for those that do enjoy those drinks, and to appreciate the people who make them – Beer Day!
How to Celebrate International Beer Day
Celebrating International Beer Day can be loads of fun! Try out these interesting ideas for enjoying the day:
Start By Toasting The Beer Makers
Many folks can agree that the perfect place to begin celebrating this day is just raising a glass, tankard, bottle or can and
toasting those that make the amazing brew possible. Whether it is at a bar, club, pub, or even just a cook-out, it is easy enough to find a place to get a brew or two.
Learn Some Beer Trivia
Beer has an interesting history and unique fun facts that can be thrown around with a group of friends, especially on Beer Day! For instance, maybe everyone doesn’t know it was the 18th Amendment to the US Constitution that made alcohol illegal in 1919!
Try these fun facts out to impress those friends at the bar on Beer Day:
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Oktoberfest began in Munich in 1810 as a celebration of the royal wedding of Crown Prince Ludwig to Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen.
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At the 2010 state fair in Texas, USA, Fried Beer won the prize for the Most Creative Fried Food! (Who knew beer could be fried?)
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In response to America’s Prohibition Act, Winston Churchill stated that this was an “affront to the whole history of mankind”.
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A beer pipeline was created in Germany, where more than 100,000 gallons of beer was piped through 7 kilometers of pipe to serve visitors to a heavy metal music festival. The purpose was to keep the grass from being ruined by beer trucks driving back and forth over the festival grounds
Join In On a Beer Day Event
Most places that hold Beer Day events do so by tapping new, or in some cases rare, beers. Other places might celebrate by hosting a happy hour that lasts all day, or putting on trivia events and games–with prizes involving beer gear, of course! Grab some friends (being responsible) and share the wonders of beer with those nearby.
Try a New Kind of Beer
In honor of the day, consider hoisting up a different type of beer than the usual fare, to expand those horizons.With more than 100 different styles (and sub styles) of beer in the world, and literally thousands of different brands, there is always an opportunity to try something new!
Beer Day is the perfect time to try out one of these unusual styles of beer:
- Gruit. This beer might especially cater to lovers of Tolkein’s fantasy world as it takes on a medieval flare, with herbs and spices that with names like mugwort and horehound. Try a variety such as Posca Rustica from Brassier Dupont, Tourpes Belgium.
- Oyster Stout. Hailing back to rumors of a tradition in New Zealand and England where some brewers were believed to use oysters in beer for “health purposes”. A few modern breweries have taken this up, like The Porterhouse Brewing Company in Dublin, Ireland.
- Gose. This one, coming from ancient brewing antics in Leipzig, Germany, is brewed with salted water that produces a briny flavor. Upright Brewing in Portland, Oregon, is one of a few brewers that have started reviving the tradition with their own versions of this salted beer.
Even if it is just a more average type of beer you have never tried before, give it that much at least. Sometime, somewhere, a brewer spent time to get that beer right, and to market it to the public.
So hoist your tankard, tap the kegs, tip the staff and enjoy the refreshment of Beer Day!
History of International Beer Day
Originally started in the United States, in Santa Cruz, California to be exact, Beer Day was begun with the purpose of celebrating the craft of brewing.
And it was also created with the intention of showing appreciation for those involved in the making of beer. The day then quickly expanded to include celebrations of bartenders and other beer technicians as well. Why not get everyone involved?
Not only did Beer Day expand in scope, but in size as well. It quickly began gaining international recognition and following within only one short year.
In between 2007 when it was started in Santa Cruz, and where it currently is no– celebrated in 207 cities, 50 countries and on 6 continents all across the globe!
Diverse and new experiences are the hallmark of Beer Day, which means that everyone is encouraged to share various techniques on how to make beer, along with how to enjoy it. In addition, there are also the various foods and activities that go along with it, to celebrate this enjoyable day of brewing skill and beverage enjoyment.
The founders of the Beer Day had three reasons that they declared for starting the day, and they are as follows:
- To gather with friends and enjoy the taste of beer.
- To celebrate those responsible for brewing and serving beer.
- To unite the world under the banner of beer, by celebrating the beers of all nations together on a single day.
International Beer Day FAQs
What is the origin of the term ‘beer’?
The word ‘beer’ traces back to the Latin word ‘bibere,’ meaning ‘to drink.’
This term evolved through Old English as ‘beor’ to the modern ‘beer.’ Its linguistic journey reflects beer’s longstanding presence in human culture.
Which country boasts the oldest operating brewery?
Germany is home to the Weihenstephan Brewery in Freising, established in 1040. This brewery has been producing beer for nearly a millennium, showcasing the country’s deep-rooted brewing traditions.
How do beer festivals in different countries celebrate local brewing traditions?
In Prilep, North Macedonia, the Pivofest beer festival is held annually in July, celebrating local and international beers with music and cultural events.
Similarly, the Belgrade Beer Fest in Serbia attracts large crowds each August, featuring a variety of beers and live performances.
What is a common misconception about beer and temperature?
Many believe beer should always be served ice-cold. However, serving temperatures can vary by beer type. For instance, ales often reveal their flavors better at warmer temperatures, while lagers are typically enjoyed chilled.
Is it true that beer leads to weight gain more than other alcoholic beverages?
The idea of a ‘beer belly’ is often overstated. Studies suggest moderate beer consumption doesn’t necessarily cause more weight gain than other alcoholic drinks. Excess calorie intake from any source can lead to weight gain.
What is the significance of the ‘Hymn to Ninkasi’ in beer history?
The ‘Hymn to Ninkasi’ is an ancient Sumerian poem that doubles as a beer recipe. It highlights the role of Ninkasi, the goddess of beer, and underscores beer’s importance in early human societies.
How did beer play a role in ancient Egyptian society?
In ancient Egypt, beer was a staple for all social classes, including pharaohs and peasants. It was consumed daily and even used as currency or offerings to the gods, reflecting its central role in their culture.
What is the strongest beer ever brewed?
The Scottish brewery Brewmeister created ‘Snake Venom,’ which has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 67.5%, making it one of the strongest beers globally.
How did the term ‘beer goggles’ originate, and is there any truth to it?
‘Beer goggles’ refers to the phenomenon where individuals find others more attractive after consuming alcohol. Studies suggest alcohol can impair judgment and perception, lending some truth to this colloquial term.
What unique beer-related event occurs in Iceland?
Iceland celebrates ‘Beer Day’ on March 1st, marking the end of a 74-year prohibition on beer, which lasted from 1915 to 1989. The day is commemorated with celebrations and, of course, beer consumption.
Need some inspiration?
Check out these videos for some extra inspiration in getting involved!
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