The Law That Brought Beer Back
For beer lovers across the United States, April 7 is more than just another day—it’s National Beer Day! But what’s the story behind this hoppy holiday? It all started in 1933 with the signing of the Cullen-Harrison Act, a pivotal piece of legislation that signaled the beginning of the end for Prohibition and put beer back in the hands of thirsty Americans.
The Cullen-Harrison Act: Beer Makes a Comeback
Prohibition, which began in 1920 with the 18th Amendment, banned the production and sale of “intoxicating liquors.” However, the Volstead Act, which defined “intoxicating” as anything over 0.5% alcohol, made even mild beers illegal. After over a decade of speakeasies, bootlegging, and a nation growing tired of the dry spell, change was brewing.
On March 22, 1933, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Cullen-Harrison Act into law, allowing the sale and consumption of beer with up to 3.2% alcohol by weight (or 4.05% by volume). While this wasn’t full repeal, it was a major step toward bringing beer back to the people. Upon signing the law, Roosevelt famously quipped, “I think this would be a good time for a beer.”
April 7, 1933: The First National Beer Day
The law officially took effect on April 7, 1933, and Americans wasted no time celebrating. Across the country, people lined up outside breweries, eager for their first legal sip of beer in over a decade. That day, an estimated 1.5 million barrels of beer were consumed! The excitement was so great that April 6 became known as “New Beer’s Eve,” a night of anticipation before the taps officially started flowing again.
Beer, Freedom, and the Road to Full Repeal
While the Cullen-Harrison Act allowed for low-alcohol beer and wine, full Prohibition wasn’t repealed until December 5, 1933, with the ratification of the 21st Amendment. But April 7 remains a special day in beer history, celebrated as National Beer Day—a time to raise a glass to the legislation that helped end America’s dry spell.
So, whether you’re enjoying a crisp lager, a bold IPA, or a rich stout, take a moment to toast National Beer Day and the law that made it possible. Cheers! 🍻