From American Revolution to Craft Revolution: Virginia Craft Breweries Celebrate 250 Years

The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild (VCBG) is proud to partner with VA250, Virginia's American Revolution 250th Commission, to commemorate Virginia’s fundamental role in the formation of our country. More than 250 years ago, revolutionary ideals were discussed at local taverns, placing Virginia craft beer at the center of American history.

This revolutionary campaign engages craft breweries, beer lovers, history buffs, and strategic partners from across the Commonwealth to commemorate the U.S. semiquincentennial and celebrate the essential role of craft beer in Virginia’s history, culture, and economy.

“Of the thirteen original colonies, none played as fundamental a role as Virginia in the formation of our country. From the ideas that inspired it, to the battlefields that decided it, there is simply no America without Virginia. More than 250 years ago, revolutionary ideals were discussed at local taverns, placing Virginia craft beer at the center of American history,” said Cheryl Wilson, Executive Director, VA250.

Joining this commemorative campaign, craft breweries and craft beer enthusiasts, including Fans of Virginia Craft Breweries, will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of guild-led programs and offerings.

“The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild’s strategic partnership with VA250 allows Virginia craft breweries to participate in something truly historic,” said Brett Vassey, President & CEO, VCBG. “History happens beyond a single document or event; it occurs during conversations, in community gathering places, and perhaps, over cups of ale. We are proud to create opportunities for Virginians and visitors alike to celebrate this part of the Commonwealth’s great history through one of its most celebrated industries, craft beer.”

Enhancing its current programs, the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild’s new slate of collaborative campaigns, events, and services is expected to connect more than 20,000 Virginia craft beer enthusiasts and 1 million tourists to the Commonwealth’s 300+ independent craft breweries over the next 18 months.

Programs include:

• Virginia Beer History Campaign© 2025
• Virginia Craft Beer Graphic Design Award™
• Virginia Craft Beer Collectibles™
• Virginia Collaboration Beer™

Virginia craft breweries and enthusiasts will benefit from the expansive reach of VA250, the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild, Fans of Virginia Craft Breweries, and more strategic partners, connecting with a national audience eager to celebrate with local flavor and patriotic pride.

The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild is proud to partner with VA250 to “Cheers!” to 1776.

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About the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission

The Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission (VA250) was established to commemorate Virginia’s role in the 250th anniversary of American independence. Its mission is to educate Americans about our history, founding ideals, and system of government; engage with communities to tell a complete story; and inspire people to recommit to the values inherent in citizenship. Join us in our effort to form a “more perfect union” in the place that made it possible. VA250.org

About the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild

The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild (VCBG) was formed in December 2010 with the mission to create the best environment in the United States for independent craft beer businesses to manufacture and headquarter their operations. The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild organizes craft brewers around four primary focuses: government affairs, marketing & tourism, farm breweries, and quality & operations. Members also have access to business services focused on training, retaining great talent, reducing operational costs, and maximizing profitability and productivity. The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild is an affiliate of the Virginia Manufacturers Association (VMA) and works in partnership with the?Brewers Association. virginiacraftbrewers.org