NATIONAL DAYFOOD & DRINK

New Beer’s Eve

New Beer’s Eve is a quiet American ritual: fill the glass, find the porch, and see who stops by.

APR6

Tuesday, April 6Every year on April 6

days to go

Roots: Celebrated since 1933, the night before the Cullen-Harrison Act took effect.
Vibe: Festive gatherings, beer tastings, and historical reflections.
Also on Apr 6: Bohring-Opitz Syndrome (Bos) Awareness Day · International Day of Sport for Development and Peace · Caramel Popcorn Day
Hashtag: #NewBeer8217sEve

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Ways to celebrate

Small, doable ways to celebrate New Beer’s Eve.

Buy a bag of coffee or loose tea from a locally owned shop.
Make new beer's eve 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.

Make it your kind of celebration

Family
Set up a tasting — juices for everybody, a fancy pitcher, nice glasses for the occasion.
Kids
Mocktails bar: sparkling water, juices, fruit, umbrellas. Let them name their creations.
Couples
Skip the noisy bar and make drinks at home. Better conversation, better seats.
Office
Bring in a quality beverage option for the afternoon — good coffee, good tea, good cold drinks.
School
For older students, talk about responsible celebration and the cultural history of the drink.
Community
Host a small meet-up at a locally owned cafe or bar — support one neighbor, meet a few more.
Just me
Make your drink the way you actually like it. Sit somewhere comfortable. Don't rush it.

Plan ahead

New Beer’s Eve is observed on April 6 every year. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Apr 6this year

2027Tue, Apr 6

2028Thu, Apr 6

2029Fri, Apr 6

2030Sat, Apr 6

2031Sun, Apr 6

2032Tue, Apr 6

2033Wed, Apr 6

2034Thu, Apr 6

2035Fri, Apr 6

2036Sun, Apr 6

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Fast facts

Prohibition lasted 13 years, from 1920 to 1933.

Hundreds of breweries reopened in the U.S. post-Prohibition.

The story

New Beer's Eve takes place on April 6, the night before the Cullen-Harrison Act took effect in 1933, allowing the legal sale of low-alcohol beer in the United States. This day symbolizes the revival of the American brewing industry and the reestablishment of personal freedoms related to alcohol consumption. It is a time for beer lovers to reflect on the struggles and triumphs of the past while enjoying the present-day craft beer renaissance.

Read the full story

The roots of New Beer's Eve can be traced back to the widespread discontent with Prohibition, which had been enacted in 1920. The 18th Amendment not only prohibited the sale and consumption of alcohol but also led to the rise of illegal speakeasies and organized crime. As the public grew weary of these restrictions, the push for repeal gained momentum, culminating in a celebration that would mark the end of an era.

As the clock struck midnight on December 5, 1933, revelers across the country raised their glasses to a newfound sense of liberty. Many breweries, having been dormant for over a decade, quickly returned to life, producing familiar favorites and innovative new styles. This night of celebration continues to inspire gatherings, beer tastings, and community events, emphasizing the importance of local breweries and the craft beer movement.

Today, New Beer's Eve is not just a nod to history; it is a celebration of American culture, community, and creativity. Beer enthusiasts gather in homes, bars, and breweries to commemorate the occasion, often sharing stories about their favorite brews and the craft behind them. In this way, New Beer's Eve serves as a reminder of the resilience of the brewing industry and the joy that comes from sharing a beer with friends.

Did you know?

First Beer Sold

The first legal beer sold after Prohibition was a Budweiser.

Speakeasies

During Prohibition, secret bars were known as speakeasies.

Home Brewing

Home brewing became popular during Prohibition as a way to skirt the law.

Prohibition's End

The 21st Amendment was ratified on December 5, 1933.

Popular Brands

Many classic American beer brands were founded during the post-Prohibition era.

Repeal Day

December 5 is also known as Repeal Day, commemorating the end of Prohibition.

Craft Beer Growth

The craft beer industry has seen explosive growth since the 1980s.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

USUnited StatesThe birthplace of New Beer's Eve, celebrating the repeal of Prohibition.
DEGermanyHome to many brewing traditions that influenced American beer culture.
CACanadaA close neighbor with a rich beer history and craft scene.
GBUnited KingdomKnown for its pub culture and traditional ales.
ITItalyEmerging craft beer industry alongside its famous wines.
AUAustraliaA growing craft beer scene influenced by British traditions.