Celebrating National Beer Day in McKinney!

April in North Texas is for patio weather, sports on the big screen, and—for the beer lover—a month-long tribute to American history. While we often focus on the newest trends, the roots of National Beer Month and National Beer Day (April 7th) tell a story of resilience that started nearly a century ago. 📜🕰️

The “New Beer’s Eve” of 1933

To truly appreciate your next pint, we have to look back at April 1933. After thirteen long, dry years of Prohibition, the tide finally turned with the Cullen-Harrison Act. While it didn’t end Prohibition entirely, it legally allowed the sale of low-alcohol beer (3.2% ABV) for the first time since 1920. ✍️🏛️

Upon signing the legislation, President Franklin D. Roosevelt famously remarked, “I think this would be a good time for a beer.” (Between Andy and I… we’re still trying to figure out when it isn’t a good time for a beer, but we appreciate the sentiment, Mr. President!)

The public certainly agreed back then. On the night of April 6, 1933, crowds across the country stood outside brewery gates, waiting for the clock to strike midnight. When it finally did, an estimated 1.5 million barrels were sold in a single day. That moment of celebration is why we still toast to National Beer Day every April 7th.

A Modern Union of History and Craft

Fast forward to 2026, and we don’t have to wait for a midnight decree to enjoy a world-class pour. We recently stopped into Union Bear Brewing in McKinney to see how they are honoring these brewing traditions.

The space itself is fantastic—wide open, welcoming, and perfect for a spring afternoon. We were greeted by a stellar team and a food menu that holds its own against the draft list.

While Union Bear has been making headlines with their 2025 award wins, we found ourselves gravitating toward a true classic: their Amber Ale. In a world of experimental brews, a well-balanced Amber feels like a nod to those early post-Prohibition days. It’s smooth, toasted, and incredibly approachable—exactly the kind of sessional beer those crowds in 1933 were likely dreaming of during the long wait for Repeal.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more “trophy” status, you can’t go wrong with their Bock or the Hefeweizen. The Bock is a 2025 Gold Medal winner, and you can taste why—it has these rich notes of caramel and toffee that feel like a warm hug in a glass. Andy really enjoyed the Hefeweizen, too; it’s a classic German style with those perfect hints of banana and clove that just scream “springtime on a Texas patio.”

Tip: If you’re heading there for the Amber, pair it with their Fish & Chips. 🐟🍟The beer-battered cod is actually made with an Amber batter, making it the ultimate “heritage” pairing for National Beer Month.

We Want to Hear From You! 📣🍻

• Are you a fan of the classics? When you’re celebrating National Beer Day, do you reach for a traditional Amber or Bock, or are you strictly a “new school” IPA fan?
• McKinney Favorites: Have you been into Union Bear lately? What’s your “go-to” pour when you’re sitting on that patio?
• The History Lesson: Did you know the story behind April 7th, or is this your first time hearing about “New Beer’s Eve”?

Drop a comment below and let us know what’s in your glass this month. We’d love to hear your recommendations!