National Craft Distillery Day (May 22nd)

Quick facts
When is it?	Every May 22nd
Tagged as:	Food & Drink Jobs & Professions Spirits & Liquers
What's the hashtag?	#NationalCraftDistilleryDay
We first published this page on:	Mar 9th, 2025
We last updated this page:	Apr 7th, 2025

Contents

National Craft Distillery Day celebrates the passion and skill of small-batch distillers who create spirits with care and creativity.

These artisans blend tradition with fresh ideas, using local ingredients to craft unique flavors you won’t find in mass-produced bottles.

Every pour reflects their dedication, turning simple ingredients into something extraordinary. More than just making drinks, they create experiences that bring people together.

This day highlights the independent makers who keep the spirit industry vibrant and full of character. Choosing craft spirits isn’t just about taste—it’s about supporting small businesses and preserving time-honored techniques. Every bottle tells a story of hard work, innovation, and a love for the craft.

How to Celebrate National Craft Distillery Day

Looking to add some zest to National Craft Distillery Day? Here are some spirited suggestions to make the day unforgettable:

Embark on a Distillery Adventure

Seek out a local craft distillery and dive into the world of artisanal spirits. Many offer tours that unveil the magic behind their creations. Sampling their unique concoctions can be both enlightening and delightful.

Host a Spirited Tasting Soirée

Gather friends for a tasting party featuring various craft spirits. Encourage guests to bring bottles from different distilleries. Compare notes, flavors, and perhaps even crown a favorite of the evening.

Get Crafty with Cocktails

Channel your inner mixologist by crafting cocktails using locally distilled spirits. Experiment with flavors, garnishes, and presentation. Sharing your creations on social media can inspire others to join the celebration.

Dive into Distilling Knowledge

Expand your appreciation by learning about the distillation process. Attend workshops or virtual seminars hosted by craft distillers. Understanding the artistry enhances the tasting experience.

Purchase a bottle (or two) from a nearby craft distillery. These establishments often rely on community support. Sharing your experience online with hashtags like #NationalCraftDistilleryDay can boost their visibility.

History of National Craft Distillery Day

National Craft Distillery Day officially launched on May 22, 2019, thanks to the efforts of Nicholas Strauser, along with Connie Strauser and Brandy Strauser-Sobanski.

They founded this celebration to highlight the dedication of small-batch distillers who create handcrafted spirits with care and creativity.

As the owners of N Scott Distillery in Las Vegas, they understood the challenges independent distillers face in a market dominated by large corporations. Their goal was to bring attention to the artistry, tradition, and innovation behind locally made spirits.

The date itself holds deep significance. On May 22, 2017, N Scott Distillery successfully produced its first handcrafted spirit, marking a major milestone. This achievement also made them the first family-owned craft distillery in Las Vegas.

Recognizing the growing popularity of small-batch spirits, the founders saw an opportunity to honor independent distillers everywhere. Since its creation, National Craft Distillery Day has encouraged spirit lovers to explore unique flavors, support local makers, and appreciate the passion behind each bottle.

By choosing craft over commercial, people help sustain a thriving industry where quality and creativity come first.