The second annual New York Craft Beer Day will take place on April 11, a day to celebrate and honor New York’s more than 500 independent craft breweries, which support 22,000 jobs and generate a $4.8 billion economic impact. New York is one of the top craft beer destinations in the country, ranking as the #2 state in the U.S. for the number of craft breweries.
NYS Brewers Association Executive Director Leone says that NYS Craft Beer Day was created for craft beer drinkers, a way to increase awareness for small businesses, breweries and craft beer. Leone hopes that all fans of craft will visit their local brewery for a pint or two, or drink something local at the very least. In short, New York State Craft Beer Day is a day to celebrate how far the New York state craft beer scene has come over the years.
“New York State Craft Beer Day was created to bring consumer awareness to the incredible beer that small craft breweries (also small and local businesses) are producing throughout the state,” Leone said. “It’s a day we hope every craft beer drinker will visit their local NYS brewery, many of which will be offering special events and discounts to commemorate the day.”
It is the perfect opportunity to head to your local brewery or visit a new spot on your bucket list and grab a pint and food and take home some beer. Given the current business climate and state of the scene, a day like this has never been more important, given all of the brewery and beer bar closures that have been happening as of late.
“[This is] the perfect day to show love and support to your local craft brewery by bringing your friends and family out to enjoy not only great food, but all of the incredible,
award-winning craft beer being produced throughout the state,” Leone said. “With so much economic uncertainty lately, there couldn’t be a more perfect time to support these small businesses and help them stay in business.”
By empowering small producers, strong local supply chains and a community that values creativity and diversity, New York is setting a new standard for what craft brewing can be. Whether you’re a hophead, lager lover, or casual sipper, there’s never been a better time to explore what New York breweries have to offer.
To commemorate the day, a special New York Craft Beer Day Collector’s Glass will be available at participating breweries while supplies last. Each limited-edition glass not only serves as a keepsake, but also gives back. $1 from every glass sold benefits the New York State Brewers Association, supporting its work in advocacy, education, and promotion on behalf of New York’s independent craft breweries.
A list of participating locations selling the 2026 Collector’s Glass and retail events can be found at www.thinkNYdrinkNY.com/new-york-craft-beer-day.
“New York Craft Beer Day highlights the passion, creativity, and resilience that define New York’s craft brewing industry. From small towns to major cities, breweries continue to bring people together and strengthen their communities,” Dawn Schulz, New York State Brewers Association board president and co-owner, Prison City Brewing, said.
Additionally a special badge can be unlocked on The Official New York Craft Beer App. The app is the first of its kind, offering a map of every brewery in the state and a passport rewards program. Click here for more information.
Brian Campbell is co-founder and Brand Manager of the Buffalo Beer League, and writes the weekly Buffalo Beer Buzz column. If you have beer news that should be included in the Beer Buzz, Brian can be reached at brian@buffalobeerleague.com, on Twitter (@buffbeerleague), Instagram, Threads and Untappd (@buffalobeerleague), and Facebook (@thebuffalobeerleague).
