Cheers, Minnesota! Raise a Glass for Beer Day on November 1st

(KNSI) — Beer lovers should mark November 1st on their calendar.

That day is Minnesota Beer Day. It was established after two years of discussions, research, planning and advocacy by the state’s Craft Brewers Guild and other constituents. The measure passed both the House and Senate this spring, and the governor signed the resolution in July.

November 1st was selected for a couple of reasons. On that day in 1850, the second brewery in the Minnesota territory opened eight years before statehood. In 1895, The Minneapolis Brewing Company placed an ad in the newspaper announcing the winner of the Name Our New Beer contest. The winning name? Grain Belt. Grain Belt changed hands a few times before it was bought in 2002 by Schell’s Brewery of New Ulm. They are the second oldest family owned brewery in the U.S.

A special pint glass has been created for the occasion. The glass has three golden stars to celebrate producers, wholesalers, and retailers. There are two golden stars to acknowledge the breweries and brewpubs that produce the beverage. Four blue waves mark the state’s four water sources of our thousands of lakes, Lake Superior, The Mississippi River, and aquifers. Two grain stalks represent the barley and wheat grown here, the two main malting crops. Finally, there are 32 stars to celebrate our history as the 32nd state.

Local breweries are celebrating the day with various specials. Back Shed Brewing in Waite Park is offering two drink tickets and the special pint glass for $10. Bad Habit Brewing Company in St. Joseph is offering a deal for $25. Customers can get the glass and all you can drink for the day. From 1:00 to 10:00 p.m., guests at Lupulin Brewing Company in Big Lake can score the glass for $10; the first pour is free. (Exclusions apply while supplies last.) Part of the proceeds will go to a local non-profit selected via votes on the Facebook page. They will also have a food truck and live music. St. Cloud Moose Lodge 1400 is also getting in on the fun.

Learn more here.

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