NATIONAL WEEK

American Craft Beer Week

American Craft Beer Week is a quiet American ritual: fill the glass, find the porch, and see who stops by.

WHEN

Second full week in May

Roots: Founded in 2006 by the Brewers Association
Vibe: Community-focused, creative, and celebratory
Hashtag: #AmericanCraftBeerWeek

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate American Craft Beer Week.

Buy a bag of coffee or loose tea from a locally owned shop.
Make american craft beer at home and actually slow down long enough to taste it.
Invite a friend over for a cup or a glass — no agenda.
Meet for a walk-and-coffee instead of a meeting.
Try a variation you've never had before.

Fast facts

Over 9,000Craft breweries operate in the U.S.

Craft holds 24.8% of U.S. beer sales dollars (2025)

The story

American Craft Beer Week is a time-honored celebration of the creativity and passion that drives craft brewers across the country. Established in 2006, this week-long event brings together beer enthusiasts and local breweries, encouraging people to explore unique flavors and brewing techniques. It's a perfect opportunity to appreciate the artistry that goes into each pint, from small batch brews to innovative styles.

Read the full story

Each year, craft breweries participate in this celebration by hosting a variety of events, including tastings, brewery tours, and special releases. Attendees can look forward to enjoying unique food pairings, live music, and engaging discussions with brewmasters. From coast to coast, communities come together to support their local breweries, fostering a sense of camaraderie and appreciation for this vibrant industry.

As you participate in American Craft Beer Week, remember to seek out local flavors that tell the story of your region. Each brewery has its own distinct character influenced by local ingredients and brewing philosophies. This week serves as a reminder of the diversity and complexity of craft beer, inviting everyone to explore and enjoy.

So, whether you're a seasoned craft beer aficionado or just starting to dip your toes into the world of brewing, American Craft Beer Week offers something for everyone. Raise a glass, celebrate creativity, and support your local breweries as they continue to innovate and inspire through their craft.

Worth knowing

Local Brewery Tours

Explore your local breweries with guided tours to learn about the brewing process and the stories behind your favorite beers.

Craft Beer Festivals

Join craft beer festivals happening nationwide, showcasing a wide range of breweries, flavors, and local food pairings.

Food Pairings

Discover how different craft beers enhance the flavors of various dishes. Try pairing a stout with chocolate desserts or a pale ale with spicy food.

Homebrewing Workshops

Attend workshops to learn the basics of homebrewing, allowing you to create your own unique brews in the comfort of your home.

Did you know?

First Craft Brewery

Many craft breweries partner with local farmers and feature their products.

Craft Beer Growth

The craft beer industry grew rapidly over the past two decades, with thousands of breweries now operating nationwide.

Beer Styles

There are over 100 different styles of craft beer, from IPAs to stouts to sours.

Largest Craft Brewery

D.G. Yuengling & Son is the oldest operating brewery in the United States.

Beer and Food Pairings

Craft beer is often paired with food to enhance the dining experience, much like wine.

Homebrewing Popularity

Homebrewing has a large and active community across the United States.

Global Influence

Craft beer movements are emerging in countries around the world, influenced by American brewing techniques.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesHome to thousands of craft breweries, each with unique offerings and local flavors.
CACanadaCanada's craft beer scene is thriving, with provinces like British Columbia and Ontario leading the way.
GBUnited KingdomThe UK boasts a rich brewing history, blending traditional styles with contemporary craft beer innovations.
DEGermanyKnown for its Reinheitsgebot, Germany offers a unique perspective on craft beer, focusing on purity and quality.
AUAustraliaAustralia's craft beer movement is booming, with a strong emphasis on local ingredients and sustainability.
ZASouth AfricaEmerging as a notable player in the craft beer world, South Africa's breweries are gaining international recognition.