The Michigan Brewers Guild has announced that July has once again been declared MICHIGAN BEER MONTH, with a formal proclamation from Governor Gretchen Whitmer (see verbiage below). As part of this month-long celebration, the public can purchase a limited-edition commemorative 2026 Michigan Beer Month glass at nearly 50 member breweries.
The proclamation from Governor Whitmer states:
WHEREAS, Michigan breweries are a vibrant affirmation and expression of Michigan’s entrepreneurial traditions, operating as community-based small businesses and providing total employment of more than 11,000 jobs; and,
WHEREAS, our state has breweries in every region of the state with more than 400 statewide; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan ranks 8th in the nation for the overall number of breweries, microbreweries, and brewpubs; and,
WHEREAS, brewers in Michigan support state agriculture by purchasing hops, malted barley, wheat, beet sugar, cherries, apples, and numerous other fruits, herbs, spices, and vegetables grown in Michigan, along with water sourced from the Great Lakes Region; and,
WHEREAS, striving to educate legal drinking age residents, Michigan brewers convey awareness about the differences in beer flavor, aroma, color, alcohol content, body, and other complex variables, beer history, and gastronomic qualities of beer; and
WHEREAS, Michigan brewers champion the message of responsible enjoyment to their customers and work within their communities to prevent alcohol abuse and underage drinking; and,
WHEREAS, breweries in Michigan produce dozens of distinct styles of flavorful beers, the quality and diversity of which have made Michigan the envy of many states, contributing to the balanced trade with increased Michigan exports and promoting Michigan tourism and agritourism; and,
WHEREAS, breweries and brewpubs contribute to the rich fabric and culture in Michigan; and,
WHEREAS, the brewing industry in Michigan has seen great growth and success, with a total economic contribution of more than $1.6 billion; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan brewers are vested in the future, health, and welfare of their communities as employers providing quality local jobs. They are contributors to the local tax base and are committed partners for a broad range of local, regional, and state non-profit organizations and other philanthropic causes; and,
WHEREAS, the Michigan Brewers Guild represents a passionate beer community that believes in quality artisanship, bold character, fun, responsibility and pushing the boundaries while promoting and protecting the Michigan beer industry.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim July 2026 as Michigan Beer Month in Michigan.
The Michigan Brewers Guild was formed in 1997 and held its first festival in July 1998. Today, the Guild hosts four festivals dedicated exclusively to Michigan beer produced by its nearly 300 member breweries.
The Michigan Brewers Guild is the network of innovative and passionate brewers that serves as the recognized advocate for the Michigan craft beer industry. Michigan’s thriving brewing industry contributes more than 17,000 full-time jobs and $700 million in labor income / wages, with a total economic impact of over $2.4 billion. In terms of overall number of breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs, Michigan ranks #6 in the nation—supporting its title as “The Great Beer State.”