It’s Officially Beer Season: American Craft Beer Week is May 12-18

From the Brewers Association:

Today, the Brewers Association (BA) kicks off its annual celebration of American Craft Beer Week (May 12-18) in local breweries, taprooms, and brewpubs across the country.

In 2024, 9,976 operating U.S. craft breweries employed 197,000 people, and a majority of Americans live within 10 miles of a craft brewer. With many breweries offering a range of beer flavors and styles (including beyond beer products) there’s truly something for everyone during American Craft Beer Week.

Craft beer doesn’t have to mean hoppy IPAs (although, those are great, too!). Recent data shows that craft drinkers are more likely to seek specific flavor profiles than in the past, and they’re looking for crisp, juicy, and fruity flavors. Many breweries have adapted their products accordingly, offering a variety of unique beer styles and beyond beer beverages including cider, seltzer, and non-alcohol options to appeal to a wider customer base. In 2024, 52% of breweries producing non-beer beverages experienced volume growth, a nearly 10 percentage point increase versus the overall category.

Following the World Beer Cup results last week, there were 349 award-winning beers and ciders in an incredible range of styles from Fruited Ciders to American-Style Sour Ales to Italian-Style Pilseners, and more. American Craft Beer Week is the perfect time to try a new-to-you or tried-and-true style while supporting craft breweries in local communities.

I’d love to connect you with the Brewers Association if you’re interested in learning more about American Craft Beer Week. You can read more about this year’s American Craft Beer Week on the BA’s website.