Virginia Craft Beer Month

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

WHEREAS, brewing homegrown, locally sourced beer in Virginia is a tradition that began when the colonists brewed their first ale using corn; and

WHEREAS, the production of craft beer stimulates economic growth in Virginia by supporting local farmers of grains, barley, fruit, vegetables, and hops, the manufacturing sector, distribution networks, community revitalization, and tourism; and

WHEREAS, in Virginia, the craft beer industry is a growing industry with $1.7 billion total economic impact in brewing, distribution, retail and related businesses, and is home to 344 licensed craft breweries; and

WHEREAS, since the passing of the tasting room bill in 2012, the number of breweries in Virginia has grown 500%; and

WHEREAS, the Virginia craft beer industry now ranks #1 among southern states for breweries per capita and #17 in the U.S.; and

WHEREAS, Virginia Craft Beer Month is an opportunity to celebrate the Commonwealth’s independent craft beer industry, craft beer culture, and the business and community leaders working to grow the industry; and

WHEREAS, Virginia is for Craft Beer Lovers and 26% of tasting room patrons visit from outside the city, town, or state where the brewery is located;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize August 2023, as VIRGINIA CRAFT BEER MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA and call this observance to the attention of our citizens.

Governor of Virginia

Proclamations