DURHAM, N.C. (April 5, 2018) -- With more than 250 breweries from the mountains to the coast, Gov. Roy Cooper today proclaimed April as NC Beer Month. 2018 marks the sixth year of the celebration, sponsored by the North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild and Visit North Carolina to tap into the rising interest in beer travel.
“North Carolina’s growing craft beer industry is a growing economic engine for our state,” Cooper said when he proclaimed April as NC Beer Month at Ponysaurus Brewing, a brewery, taproom, and beer garden at the eastern edge of downtown Durham. “Breweries help cities big and small by creating jobs and bringing visitors and locals together.”
The number of craft breweries in North Carolina has more than quadrupled since 2010. According to the Brewers Association, the annual economic impact of the craft beer industry in North Carolina is over $2 billion. It accounts for over $300 million in annual wages and more than 10,000 jobs. Ponysaurus is part of that economic impact, anchoring significant redevelopment investment in downtown Durham’s east side.
“Durham has become a national destination for lovers of craft food and beverages, thanks in no small part to independent brewers,” said Keil Jansen, Brewmaster and co-owner of Ponysaurus Brewing, which has been named a “Next Level Brewery” by Food & Wine magazine. “We’re thrilled to be a part of what makes the Bull City such a great destination.”
“Interest in craft beer clearly inspires travel,” said Wit Tuttell, executive director of Visit North Carolina, the state tourism office and a unit of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. “With over 50 new breweries in North Carolina since last April, visitors can combine their favorite craft brewery visits with exciting new first-time experiences. All of our breweries reflect the character of the place where the beer is made.”
By proclaiming NC Beer Month, Gov. Cooper helps elevate North Carolina’s profile as a destination for craft beer as well as outdoor recreation, innovative dining and music. Find scores of April events and travel deals at NCBeerMonth.com, and stop by VisitNC.com for everything you need for planning a craft beer getaway. At NCBeerMonth.com visitors can learn about the NC Beer passport to help them find and visit North Carolina breweries, along with chances to win one of four NC beer getaways around the state.
“NC Beer Month is a celebration of our state's brewing community and brewers. The goal is to get out there! Explore a new brewery, celebrate your favorite brewer and have fun responsibly,” said Andrew Lemley, executive director of the Craft Brewers Guild.