It built the pyramids, it’s the reason math was invented, and saved lives during the dark ages… it’s a magical elixir that was most likely created completely by accident… and today we celebrate it! BEER!
As a beer enthusiast and homebrewer I can tell you, no two beers are alike. And today we get to celebrate National Beer Day! But what is it and how does one “celebrate” without showing up to work tomorrow with a raging hangover? There’s MANY!
But before we go into those, let's talk a little bit about Franklin D. Roosevelt. Roosevelt signed the Cullen–Harrison Act back in 1933, which legalized the sale of low-alcohol beer in America and ended Prohibition. After the signing was complete, Roosevelt said "I think this would be a good time for a beer." So, when we raise a glass on National Beer Day, we're truly celebrating the end of prohibition and the wise words of Roosevelt, who understood how alcoholic beverages could be beneficial in moderation. This isn’t a holiday about getting full on schmammered!
Even if you're not a drinker, there's still a good reason to celebrate beer! Milwaukee was built on it! And after all, our baseball team is called the Brewers!
This year, raise your glass or bottle and consider participating in a few of these beer-centric activities:
Check and see if your favorite bar is offering discounts or specials
Every bar has a happy hour! That’s a great start!
Tour a local brewery
I suggest Lakefront Brewery or Milwaukee Brewing Company.
Make a mixed six pack, and sample beer you've never tried before
Most grocery stores now give you this option but I suggest you hit up a spot like Ray’s Wine and Spirits in Tosa or any of the Discount Liquor stores. They’ve got hundreds of beers including rarities you won’t find at the run of the mill grocery store/super mart.
Try to make your own home brew
As a homebrewer I can tell you it’s one of the most fun hobbies. If you can follow directions on a box of brownies you can brew beer thanks to places like Northern Brewer in West Allis that sell equipment and full recipe kits to make beer. If you still want more knowledge check out UBrew, they offer workshops that walk you through the entire process of how to homebrew beer, best part you get to take home beer you make!
Try to figure out your favorite beer and cheese pairings
You might think of wine and cheese pairings, but let me tell you beer pairs great with it too! Even chocolate pairs well with beer!