Cheers to National Beer Day, a day that commemorates an important event in beer history in the United States. This day marks the beginning of the end of Prohibition in 1933, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Cullen-Harrison Act into effect. This allowed individuals to purchase and consume low-alcohol content beer and wine in public, leading to the eventual repeal of Prohibition later that year with the ratification of the 21st Amendment.
Since then, the beer industry in the U.S. has seen significant growth beyond major breweries like Anheuser-Busch, Coors, and Miller Brewing Co. Independent craft breweries have become increasingly popular, spurred on by President Jimmy Carter’s signing of a law in 1978 that allowed for home brewing of beer. This paved the way for the creation of well-known breweries such as Boston Beer Co., Brooklyn Brewery, Dogfish Head Brewery, and Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Modelo Especial currently holds the title of the best-selling beer in the U.S., with sales seeing a 12% increase compared to the previous year. This beer overtook Bud Light in 2023, and since then, Bud Light’s sales have seen a decline of 28%. Non-alcoholic beer sales are also on the rise, with a 32.6% increase so far in 2024.
The number of breweries in the U.S. has grown significantly over the years, reaching close to 10,000 in 2022. Craft beer sales have also been on the rise, increasing by 5% in 2022. However, with increased competition from alternative alcoholic beverages like hard seltzers and cocktails, the industry may face challenges in the future.
As beer prices continue to rise, the market for non-alcoholic beer is also expanding. Major brands like Corona, Blue Moon, and Guinness have entered the non-alcoholic beer category, reflecting shifting consumer preferences. With new breweries opening and closing each year, the beer industry remains dynamic and ever-evolving.
On this National Beer Day, it’s a time to celebrate the rich history and diverse offerings of the beer world in the United States. Whether enjoying a classic brew or exploring new craft creations, there’s something for every beer enthusiast to raise a glass to on this special day.