April 11 has officially been designated as the first ever New York State Craft Beer Day, a day to celebrate and honor New York’s more than 500 independent craft breweries that support 22,000 jobs and generate a $4.8 billion economic impact.

Gov. Kathy Hochul made the proclamation at last month’s New York State Craft Beer Conference in Albany. She was in attendance to present the Governor’s Cup, awarded to the beer in the the dstate. Brooklyn’s Grimm Artisanal Ales won for their Grimm Weisse beer.

“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 said. “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!”

Photo courtesy of the New York State Brewers Association

“Beer has been part of New York’s history since the early 1600’s when the first known brewery was built on the southern tip of New Amsterdam, which is now Manhattan," Executive Director of the New York State Brewer’s Association Paul Leone added. "Today there are over 500 breweries scattered throughout every region of the state, thanks to the passion and dedication of the craft brewers, owners and the customers that keep their small businesses alive. We are so honored that Governor Hochul would proclaim April 11 New York Craft Beer Day starting in 2025, which will give us one day every year to shine an extra bright light on an industry that employs over 22,000 hard working New Yorkers, and will give craft beer fans one more reason to celebrate and raise a glass to New York State craft beer!”

To commemorate New York Craft Beer Day, patrons can download the free Official New York State Craft Beer App to a map of every brewery in the state.