I never expected it to catch on like it did. South African National Beer Day was born out of a desire to celebrate South Africa’s favourite tipple in style. It was also meant to give the local beer scene a little boost each year. After consulting a number of industry folk across the country, we decided the first Saturday in February would be a good day. Januworry is over, people have finally got that long awaited paycheck and in most of the country, it’s proper beer drinkin’ weather. The idea was for brewers, bar owners, liquor store managers and indeed, good old beer drinkers to host small events and raise their glass to this wonderfully diverse beverage. In the first year, there were just over 50 events across the country, growing to 120 in year three.

The fourth annual South African National Beer Day is happening across the country on February 1st and we’re hoping it’ll be bigger than ever. The events are already flowing in – almost 50 at last count and there’s still two weeks until the big day. You can check out all the events on our handy map – and make sure you bookmark it and check back often as events will be added right up until Feb 1st.

To give you an idea of what’s happening, there is bottomless beer at Mad Giant, Capital Craft, Hazeldean and Beerhouse, there’s a bus tour around a bunch of Jo’burg breweries, there are umqombothi brewdays taking place at Banana Jam and Soul Barrel, there are beer launches, specials and brewdays up and down the country, and Stellenbosch Brewing Co. is aiming to break its own record with a mass collaboration brew where everyone gets to say they brewed a beer. If you want to add your event to the map, please get in touch here.

But don’t stress if there’s nothing happening near you, or if you prefer to enjoy your beer at home. You don’t have to attend an event to celebrate. You can easily be a part of South African National Beer Day without leaving your house. All you need is beer, friends and gees. And maybe some food. Whatever you’re doing, don’t forget to share some pics with us, using #SANBeerDay so that we can see what you’re up to. And if you’re heading out, please be sure to have a designated driver to get you home safely.

This year, the day has been given a huge boost by BASA (Beer Association of South Africa) who are supporting the initiative with an awesome social media campaign. Check out everything that’s happening on the #SANBeerDay Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts. But before you do that, check out this thirst-inducing video from the team that brought you Brewing the Republic:

So, how will you be celebrating South African National Beer Day? Tell us in the comments section below!