World Beer Day 2024: Beer lovers know that it is much more than just a beverage. For many, beer is associated with good times, camaraderie, and relaxation. Beer is one of the most consumed beverages in the world, and we are not just talking about the alcoholic variants. Beer has a rich history that can be traced through its evolution in different parts of the world. In the 21st century, innovation and experimentation in the beer industry know no bounds and there is a lot to be excited about. If you consider yourself a big beer fan, we have some experiences you might want to add to your bucket list. Take a look at them below.
Here are 5 top spots for beer lovers:
1. Munich, Germany
International Beer Day 2023: Oktoberfest in Munich is considered the largest beer festival in the world. Photo Credit: iStock
When you think of bucket list beer-related experiences, one of the first things that comes to mind is Oktoberfest. So it comes as no surprise that Munich tops the list. Oktoberfest is the world’s largest and most famous beer festival. Every year, it attracts millions of beer lovers from all over the world. Although now many versions of it are held in other parts of the world as well, the original celebration can be traced back to Munich. The city is the capital of the German state of Bavaria, and beer is considered an important part of Bavarian culture in general. Munich is also home to many traditional beer gardens, where one can enjoy this beverage in an open-air and community setting. This part of Germany is also known for the Reinheitsgebot or Bavarian Beer Purity Law, which was implemented in 1516. According to the original law, beer could only be made from three ingredients: water, barley, and hops (yeast was added later), and only these ingredients could be used in brewing beer. This law regulates the German beer industry and has also influenced practices in other parts of the world.
2. Denver, US
After Oktoberfest, the Great American Beer Festival is one of the biggest events that beer lovers flock to. Held annually in Denver, the festival highlights American craft breweries and includes beer tastings, seminars, competitions, and more. Denver is said to have historically played a key role in the craft beer movement in the US. The city and the state of Colorado are also known to have the highest concentration of breweries in the USA. Denver’s vibrant beer scene and thriving sense of community around beer have made it one of the top destinations for beer tourism.
Also read: International Beer Day: 7 delicious recipes to cook with beer
3. Prague, Czech Republic
When it comes to beer tourism, one cannot miss Prague. The Czech Republic has a rich heritage of brewing, which dates back several centuries. Perhaps one of the most famous Czech creations in this regard is Pilsner, a type of lager beer that originated in the Bohemian city of Pilsen in the present-day Czech Republic. Czech beer culture can be tasted in different ways in Prague. You can visit beer gardens, taverns, historic breweries, etc. or opt for beer tastings, brewery tours, and other beer-related events. Prague also hosts the Czech Beer Festival every year. Other parts of the country also have their own festivals and experiences that beer lovers enjoy.
Also read: 5 surprising health benefits of beer that you may not know
4. London, UK
International Beer Day 2023: London has a rich pub culture. Photo Credit: iStock
When talking about some of the most prestigious beer festivals, you have to consider the Great British Beer Festival. Organised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA), this annual festival is held in London and showcases British as well as foreign beers. Other traditional British alcoholic beverages such as cider and perry are also offered. In general, London is an attractive place for beer lovers as it offers a wide variety of experiences. The city is famous for its pubs and breweries and has also historically influenced the development of certain beer styles. Recently, craft breweries in and around the city have also come into the limelight.
5. Sydney, Australia
Away from Europe and America, Australia and New Zealand also have a lot to offer beer lovers. Although the British introduced the beverage to Australia during the colonial period, the present-day beer culture in the country is quite distinctive. In Sydney, one can take advantage of the city’s many waterfront pubs, beer gardens, craft breweries, beer tours and more. The city’s multiculturalism and local pride in local ingredients lead to unique beer experiences. Sydney also hosts several beer festivals throughout the year.
Also read: Weekend Special: 6 Food Items That Go Best With Beer
Apart from these places, Wellington, Brussels, Montreal, Amsterdam, Dublin and other cities also have beer vibes worth visiting. Have you ever been to a large-scale beer festival before? Let us know in the comments below.
