National Lager Day is a holiday dedicated to the celebration of one of America’s favorite styles of beer – the lager. This day is all about appreciating the subtle, crisp, and refreshing qualities of lagers, which are known for their vast variety, ranging from pale to dark brews.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: December 10
- Tagged as: Drugs & Alcohol, Food & Drink
- What’s the hashtag?: #NationalLagerDay
- When was it founded?: The holiday has been celebrated since at least 2010
- Who founded it?: It was started as a community movement among beer lovers
History of National Lager Day
The origins of National Lager Day trace back to a grassroots initiative by beer enthusiasts who wanted to honor the unique brewing process and distinct flavor profiles of lagers. Lager beers, characterized by their cool fermentation and conditioning processes, have become synonymous with celebration and social gatherings.
Timeline
- 1741: Benno Scharl, known as the ‘father’ of modern brewing, is born.
- 1842: The world’s first golden lager is produced in Plzen, Bohemia, setting the standard for the light, crisp beers we enjoy today.
- 1873: In Munich, lager brewing advances with the adoption of Von Linde’s refrigeration technology, allowing for year-round production.
- 1990: “A Brief History of Lager: 500 Years of the World’s Favourite Beer” is published, documenting the beer’s rich history.
Dates by Next Year
| Year | Month of Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | December 10 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | December 10 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | December 10 | Thursday |
| 2027 | December 10 | Friday |
| 2028 | December 10 | Sunday |
Observed
National Lager Day is observed annually on December 10, inviting beer enthusiasts to explore the vast array of lager styles, support local breweries, and raise a glass to this globally loved beverage.
Fun Facts About Lagers
- Light and Refreshing: Lagers are known for their light, crisp taste, making them a popular choice for all-year-round consumption.
- Bottom-Fermenting Yeast: The unique brewing process involves bottom-fermenting yeast, leading to the distinct, clear, and clean flavor profile.
- Variety: There’s a lager for every palate, from pilsners to the darker, maltier Munich lagers.
Quiz
- What does the term “lager” mean in German?
- Answer: Storage or warehouse
- Which yeast is used in brewing lagers?
- Answer: Bottom-fermenting yeast
FAQs
- Is lager the same as beer?
- Lager is a type of beer, distinguished by its brewing process which involves cooler temperatures and slow fermentation.
- What are some popular types of lagers?
- Popular types include Helles, pilsner, Märzen, bock, and dunkel.
Importance of National Lager Day
National Lager Day serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance of lager beers. It encourages beer lovers to explore and appreciate the craftsmanship behind each brew, fostering a sense of community among enthusiasts and supporting local brewing traditions.
Related
- Oktoberfest: A festival that, while not exclusively about lagers, showcases Bavarian beer culture, often featuring lagers prominently.
- International Beer Day: Celebrated annually to honor beers of all kinds, including lagers, across the world.
- National Beer Day: Commemorates the end of Prohibition in the United States, highlighting the role of beer in American culture.