New Beer’s Eve

New Beer’s Eve is observed on April 6. This high-spirited holiday marks the final night of the 13-year Prohibition era in the United States, celebrating the eve of when beer finally became legal to sell and consume again. It serves as a precursor to National Beer Day (April 7) and honors the resilient spirit of the American public and the brewing industry.

Read also about National American Beer Day and Bock Beer Day, International Beer Day – First Friday in August

History of New Beer’s Eve

The origins of New Beer’s Eve are rooted in the Cullen-Harrison Act, signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in March 1933. This act redefined “intoxicating segments” to allow for the manufacture and sale of beer with an alcohol content of 3.2% by weight (approximately 4% by volume). While full Prohibition wouldn’t be repealed until the 21st Amendment was ratified in December, the Cullen-Harrison Act went into effect at midnight on April 7, 1933.

On the night of April 6, 1933, thirsty citizens across the country gathered outside breweries and taverns in massive “beer lines,” counting down the minutes until the clock struck twelve. In many cities, the atmosphere mirrored New Year’s Eve, with crowds cheering as the first legal barrels were rolled out onto the streets. In St. Louis, the Anheuser-Busch brewery sent a team of Clydesdale horses to the White House to deliver a case of beer to President Roosevelt, cementing the date in American cultural history.

Why is New Beer’s Eve important?

This day is important because it represents a turning point in American civil liberties and economic recovery. During the Great Depression, the return of the legal beer industry provided thousands of much-needed jobs in brewing, glassmaking, and transportation, while generating vital tax revenue for a struggling government. New Beer’s Eve celebrates the end of a social experiment that had significantly altered American nightlife and social customs.

The observance also highlights the craftsmanship and heritage of the brewing industry. Many of the breweries that survived Prohibition did so by producing “near-beer,” malt extract, or even ice cream. New Beer’s Eve honors their survival and the subsequent explosion of the American craft beer movement. It serves as a reminder of the social importance of the “third place”—the local pub or brewery where communities gather to share stories and a cold drink.

• It commemorates the 1933 end of the 13-year “dry” spell for beer lovers.
• The day recognizes the economic boost provided by the Cullen-Harrison Act.
• It highlights the historical significance of the “3.2% beer” compromise.
• The holiday celebrates the resilience of historic American breweries.
• It serves as the official “countdown” to National Beer Day.

How to Celebrate New Beer’s Eve

The most popular way to celebrate is by visiting a local brewery or pub to participate in a “countdown” to midnight. Many establishments host themed parties featuring 1930s music, vintage attire, and special releases of pre-Prohibition style lagers. Since it is the “eve” of the main event, it is an excellent time to sample a flight of different beers and learn about the specific hops and malts used in your favorite brews.

For a more low-key celebration, you can host a “Tasting Party” at home, inviting friends to bring a unique bottle of craft beer to share. Sharing historical facts about the “Beer Act” of 1933 on social media with the hashtag #NewBeersEve is a great way to educate others on why we enjoy the brewing freedom we have today. To truly honor the history, look for “session” beers with lower alcohol content, similar to the 3.2% varieties that first became legal nearly a century ago.

• Visit a local taproom and toast to the brewers who kept the tradition alive.
• Host a 1930s-themed gathering with friends to countdown to April 7.
• Try a “Pre-Prohibition” style lager to taste a bit of liquid history.
• Share a photo of your favorite pint online to start the celebration early.
• Learn about your state’s specific “repeal” history and local historic breweries.

New Beer’s Eve Dates Table