Buzzed: 5 Ways To Celebrate National Beer Day

April 7 is an important and exciting day for beer lovers nationwide. This date marks the 83rd anniversary of the Cullen-Harrison Act, which made it legal for Americans to buy and drink beer in the United States again after a 13-year prohibition.

“I think this would be a good time for beer,” said President Roosevelt, upon signing the legislation, even though the bill only allowed the sale or consumption of beer with 3.2 percent alcohol content. Sure, the end of prohibition was a good time for beer, and beer-lovers, of course. But, 2016 is truly a good time for beer, with a burgeoning local craft-beer industry that allows for dozens of ways to adequately celebrate National Beer Day.

Here are a few suggestions:

1.  Fill Up A Growler

Over the last decade, the number of venues that offer growlers has increased significantly in Westchester County. You can even fill your containers of local craft brews at supermarkets these days, like Whole Foods Market and DeCicco & Sons Family Markets. But, if you want more of beer-centered experience, try Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, The Peekskill Brewery, The Green Growler, and Growler’s Beer Bistro.

2.  Visit A Brewery

If you want to take advantage of this historical holiday by learning about how the sweet stuff is made, we recommend visiting one of Westchester County’s acclaimed breweries: Broken Bow Brewery in Tuckahoe, Captain Lawrence Brewing Company in Elmsford, Peekskill Brewery down by the Peekskill riverfront, and Yonkers Brewing Company.  

3.  Buy An Assortment Of Brews

For access to every hoppy, malty, dark, light, fruity and every other type of beer under the sun, Half Time in Mamaroneck is your spot. This take-home beer drinker’s paradise has dozens of options for everyone. For something less overwhelming and on a smaller scale, visit the guys at Beer Noggin in Bronxville, a small craft-beer shop where the owners pride themselves in curating the best selection of brews available for their customers. You can also try some of both stores’ offerings on tap, and fill up a growler.

4.  Try 100 Different Beers

If you prefer to socialize over your favorite beer, or 100 of them, visit Yard House in Yonkers or West Nyack, which offers 100 different beers on tap and extensive eclectic food menu to go with it.

5.  Eat Beer Battered Foods

The Craftsman Ale House in Harrison is the place to do this. They offer beer-battered chicken fingers, beer-battered Caesar salad and, most importantly, beer-battered desserts. Another good spot to try is Bridgeview Tavern in Sleepy Hollow, where you’ll find Belgian Ale sauce and beer-battered fish and chips on the menu. And, of course, there are plenty of cold ones on tap to accompany the rich food.