VA250 & Virginia Craft Brewers Guild Launch Commemorative Partnership Program

RICHMOND, VA – The VA250 Commission (VA250) and the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild (VCBG) launched their commemorative partnership program to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution on Monday, August 11, at the Virginia Craft Beer Summit & Gala. Gathered with hundreds of members of Virginia’s craft beer community, leaders from both organizations shared plans to rally independent craft brewers across the Commonwealth to commemorate Virginia’s foundational role in American independence. Through this partnership and the Guild’s new Retail & Distribution Program, which engages strategic partners like Fans of Virginia Craft Breweries and Virginia Craft Beer Magazine, the Guild and independent craft breweries in Virginia aim to reach one million craft beer enthusiasts by 2027.

Commemorative Partnership Program

The commemorative partnership invites breweries to honor Virginia’s brewing heritage through historically inspired brews, engaging taproom experiences, and exclusive commemorative merchandise. By connecting beer lovers with the spirit of 1776—one pint at a time—this initiative will showcase Virginia’s revolutionary history, drive consumer traffic and beer tourism, while celebrating the creativity and community at the heart of craft beer. Click here to learn more about the program.

“What better way to celebrate Virginia’s role in America’s story than by raising a glass with our incredible craft brewing community?” said Cheryl Wilson, Executive Director of VA250. “Virginia breweries embody the same spirit of independence, innovation, and community that defined our nation’s founding. Through this partnership, we’ll reach beer lovers across the Commonwealth and beyond, reminding everyone that America was—and still is—Made in Virginia.”

The first step for craft breweries is to become a “Pintriot” by signing the Declaration of Beerdependence, which unlocks access to commemorative marketing materials and timely, informative emails about the Guild’s Retail & Distribution Programs. The second step is to become an official VA250 Commemorative Partner to gain official recognition, promotional support, and more. Click here to get started!

Additional Programs

The Virginia Craft Brewers Guild has designed additional programs to help breweries grow sustainably while deepening their connection to the Commonwealth’s rich history and vibrant future.

“The Guild is continuing to create meaningful opportunities that deliver real value—expanding market access by connecting breweries with new retail and distribution channels, strengthening brand visibility through statewide promotional campaigns tied to the VA250 commemoration, and celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our industry by showcasing the innovation, resilience, and community impact of Virginia’s independent craft brewers,” said Brett Vassey, President & CEO of the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild.

On Tap© E-Newsletter | The new seasonal newsletter, in collaboration with Virginia Craft Beer Magazine, is focused on sharing stories of craft, creativity, and community with breweries, enthusiasts, and retailers across the Commonwealth.

Virginia Craft Beer Graphic Design Award™ | Launching in September in collaboration with Fans of Virginia Craft Breweries, this inaugural competition will spotlight exceptional art and design created by independent Virginia craft brewery employees and their creative partners. The Facebook group will vote for their favorite design, and the winner(s) will be announced at the Virginia Craft Beer Seminar on Monday, December 1.

Virginia Craft Beer Collectibles™ | The winning artwork(s) will have the chance to be featured on limited-time merchandise sold exclusively in taprooms of participating breweries throughout 2026.

Taproom Activations | Participating breweries will offer immersive consumer experiences tied to VA250 by serving the historically inspired Virginia Collaboration Beer™, sharing Virginia’s beer heritage through storytelling, and creating memorable events that connect visitors to both Virginia’s revolutionary history and proud brewing tradition.

Follow the Virginia Craft Brewers Guild on Facebook for additional announcements.

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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