What is International Beer Day you ask? International Beer Day is a beer lover’s Christmas! It is held on the first Friday of every August; this year it is August 1, 2014. Originally, International Beer Day was founded in 2007 and was August 5^th till 2012. The founders took a poll of fans and it was decided to move the holiday to the first Friday of August. 

International Beer Day was founded in 2007 by Jesse Avshalomov, Evan Hamilton, Aaron Araki, Richard Hernandez, Tyler Burton and Ryland Hale. It is currently ran by Jesse Avshalomov and Evan Hamilton in San Francisco, California, with their main goal to “unite the world through beer.” International Beer Day has had over 362 celebrations in over 315 cities and over 39 countries worldwide. The holiday really has 3 purposes:

1. To gather with friends and enjoy the deliciousness that is beer.


2. To celebrate the dedicated men and women who brew and serve beer.


3. To bring the world together under the united banner of beer, by celebrating the beers of all nations and cultures together on this one remarkable day.

International Beer Day is great way to show your appreciation to all the hardworking people that bring us so much joy and fine brews. You can expect many bars, restaurants and breweries across the globe celebrating this day with some special brews saved just for this occasion. Keep in mind you may want to take the day following International Beer Day off from work, for you may be a little tired from all the celebrating! While many of us celebrate the wonders of beer year-round, this holiday is a great way to meet other great people with similar interests and try new exciting beers. And as always celebrate responsibly!!

Heather Rogers, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits beer consultant

Follow me on Twitter @abcbeerheatherr