New York Declares April 11 as Craft Beer Day

By Blake Jackson

Governor Kathy Hochul has officially declared April 11th as the inaugural New York Craft Beer Day, recognizing the significant impact of the state's independent breweries.

New York boasts over 500 craft breweries, ranking as the second-largest craft beer market in the U.S., contributing $4.8 billion to the state's economy and supporting 22,000 jobs.

"Today, we raise a glass to more than 500 craft breweries across New York small businesses that pour $4.8 billion into our economy and flavor into our communities," Governor Hochul stated. "On this Craft Brewers Day, let’s toast their creativity, their grit and their impact. And remember if you’re going to celebrate, celebrate responsibly. Cheers!"

The Governor made the announcement at the New York State Craft Brewers Association Conference in Albany, where she presented the 2025 Governor’s Excelsior Craft Beer Cup to Brooklyn’s Grimm Artisanal Ales for their Grimm Weisse wheat beer.

To mark the inaugural Craft Beer Day, beer enthusiasts can utilize the free Official New York State Craft Beer App, developed by the NYS Brewers Association, to locate local breweries. The app is the only one mapping every brewery in the state, and on April 11th, users could earn an exclusive "Inaugural New York Craft Beer Day Badge" with any passport stamp.

Governor Hochul has championed legislation to support the craft beverage industry. In 2023, a law was enacted allowing breweries to renew licenses every three years instead of annually, resulting in a 30% cost saving over three years and reduced administrative burden.

Additionally, 2022 saw the introduction of temporary permits for all craft beverage manufacturers, enabling them to commence operations while their full license applications are pending, significantly accelerating their launch.

Further support came in 2024 with landmark legislation allowing small craft producers of spirits, cider, and mead to ship directly to consumers, opening up vital market expansion opportunities.

The craft beverage industry also benefits New York agriculture by driving demand for locally sourced ingredients. The 2024-25 state budget allocated over $650,000 to Cornell for research on disease-resistant hops and barley varieties suitable for the Northeast climate.

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