In days of yore, the beer enthusiasts of the United States found themselves in a melancholy state. In 1920, the government sanctioned the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, prohibiting all intoxicating liquors, including beer, ushering in the era now recognized as Prohibition. Fortunately, in 1933, Prohibition reached its conclusion. The noteworthy date was April 7, and in commemoration, we now annually observe New Beer's Eve on April 6! So, raise a glass and toast to the freedom to enjoy a refreshing beer.

What is New Beers Eve?

1. Definition:

   • New Beers Eve is a playful celebration that takes place on the evening of April 6th, leading into National Beer Day on April 7th. It marks the end of Prohibition in the United States and the return of beer, celebrating the legal right to drink beer again. On this night, people come together to toast to beer, share drinks, and celebrate the history and culture of brewing.

2. Historical Context:

   • New Beers Eve is rooted in the end of Prohibition, a 13-year period (1920-1933) during which the production, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were banned in the United States under the 18th Amendment and the Volstead Act. The Cullen-Harrison Act, signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt on March 22, 1933, went into effect on April 7, 1933, allowing the sale of beer with an alcohol content of up to 3.2% by weight (4% by volume). This marked the first step toward the full repeal of Prohibition, which officially ended on December 5, 1933, with the ratification of the 21st Amendment.

History and Origins of New Beers Eve

1. The Eve Before Legal Beer:

   • The night of April 6th, 1933, was a momentous occasion in American history, as it marked the first time since 1920 that Americans could legally purchase beer. As midnight approached, thousands of Americans lined up outside breweries, taverns, and bars in cities across the country, eagerly waiting for the clock to strike 12:01 a.m. so they could buy and drink beer legally for the first time in over a decade.

2. Significance of the Cullen-Harrison Act:

   • The Cullen-Harrison Act, named after its sponsors, Senators Pat Harrison of Mississippi and Thomas H. Cullen of New York, was the first legislation that relaxed the strict restrictions of Prohibition. President Roosevelt signed the act into law on March 22, 1933, famously remarking, "I think this would be a good time for a beer." This act allowed the production and sale of beer with a low alcohol content, which quickly led to the reopening of breweries and the revival of the beer industry.

3. Celebration of New Beers Eve:

   • New Beers Eve began as an unofficial celebration among beer enthusiasts and has grown in popularity over the years. The night is marked by toasts, parties, tastings, and other festivities that celebrate beer and its place in American culture. Bars, breweries, and beer lovers across the country use New Beers Eve as an opportunity to enjoy new brews, revisit classic beers, and honor the history of the brewing industry.

How to Celebrate New Beers Eve

There are many ways to celebrate New Beers Eve, whether you're hosting a gathering with friends, visiting a local brewery, or simply enjoying a cold beer at home:

1. Host a Beer Tasting Party:

   • Invite friends over for a beer tasting party. Offer a selection of different styles of beer, from lagers and ales to stouts and IPAs. You can include beers from local breweries or explore a variety of beers from around the world. Provide tasting notes and encourage guests to share their thoughts and preferences.

2. Visit a Local Brewery or Bar:

   • Support your local breweries and bars by visiting them on New Beers Eve. Many establishments host special events, release limited-edition brews, or offer discounts and deals on beer to celebrate the occasion.

3. Try a New Beer:

   • Use New Beers Eve as an opportunity to try a beer you've never had before. Explore a different style, brand, or flavor profile, and expand your palate. Many craft breweries offer unique seasonal or experimental brews that can make for an exciting discovery.

4. Toast to the End of Prohibition:

   • At midnight, raise a glass and make a toast to the end of Prohibition and the return of legal beer. Reflect on the historical significance of this event and appreciate the freedoms and choices available today.

5. Pair Beer with Food:

   • Plan a beer-pairing dinner that matches different styles of beer with complementary dishes. For example, pair a light lager with seafood, a robust stout with chocolate dessert, or a hoppy IPA with spicy dishes. Beer and food pairings can enhance both the flavors of the beer and the meal.

6. Learn About Beer History:

   • Take some time to learn about the history of beer and brewing in the United States, especially during the Prohibition era. Watch documentaries, read articles or books, or visit museums and historical sites dedicated to the history of beer.

7. Brew Your Own Beer:

   • If you're a homebrewer or interested in brewing, use New Beers Eve as an occasion to brew your own batch of beer. Experiment with new recipes or ingredients, and enjoy the process of creating a unique brew from scratch.

8. Share on Social Media:

   • Share your New Beers Eve celebration on social media using hashtags like #NewBeersEve or #BeerDayEve. Post photos of your beer tastings, party setups, or favorite brews and connect with other beer enthusiasts celebrating the day.

9. Plan for National Beer Day:

   • Use New Beers Eve as a lead-in to National Beer Day on April 7th. Plan additional activities, like brewery tours, beer-themed games, or a pub crawl, to continue the celebration of beer’s return to American culture.

Fun Facts About New Beers Eve and Prohibition

• First Beer Legalized: When the Cullen-Harrison Act went into effect on April 7, 1933, over 1.5 million barrels of beer were consumed within the first 24 hours. Breweries and taverns across the country celebrated with large parties and festivities.

• Brewing Industry Revival: The end of Prohibition allowed many breweries that had survived by producing near-beer, soft drinks, and other goods to resume brewing beer. New breweries also opened, contributing to a revival of the American brewing industry.

• The Beer Truck Parade: In cities like St. Louis and Milwaukee, breweries celebrated the end of Prohibition by organizing beer truck parades. The Anheuser-Busch brewery in St. Louis famously sent a wagon pulled by Clydesdale horses to deliver a case of beer to President Franklin D. Roosevelt at the White House.

• Beer as a Symbol of Freedom: For many Americans, beer became a symbol of freedom, leisure, and celebration. The lifting of Prohibition on beer led to a renewed appreciation for the social and cultural importance of beer in American life.

• Roosevelt's Famous Quote: Upon signing the Cullen-Harrison Act, President Roosevelt is believed to have said, "I think this would be a good time for a beer," which remains a popular phrase among beer enthusiasts today.

Conclusion

New Beers Eve is a fun and festive celebration that commemorates the end of Prohibition and the return of beer to American life. Whether you're a beer enthusiast, a casual drinker, or someone interested in history, this day provides an opportunity to honor the cultural significance of beer, reflect on its journey through American history, and enjoy the freedom to drink responsibly. So, on April 6th, raise a glass, try a new brew, and toast to the spirit of New Beers Eve!