International Beer Day is just around the corner – celebrated this year on August 1, 2025 – and there’s no better place to tip your glass than the Emerald Isle. Famed for its centuries-old brewing traditions and vibrant pub culture, Ireland is a dream destination for beer lovers. Whether you’re a fan of smooth stouts or crisp lagers, this International Beer Day is the perfect excuse to explore some of the most popular beers in Ireland, from Guinness to Smithwicks, we have it all. We have also included a sample 5-night Ireland Brewery Tour Itinerary.
What Is International Beer Day?
Founded in 2007 in Santa Cruz, California, International Beer Day is now celebrated in over 80 countries worldwide. The idea is simple: honor the craft of brewing, celebrate beers from every corner of the globe, and share a drink with friends new and old. When is International Beer Day? It takes place annually on the first Friday of August, making August 1, 2025, a date to mark on your calendar for a good time.
Why Ireland and Beer Go Hand-in-Pint
When it comes to iconic beer destinations, Ireland stands tall. The country boasts a deep-rooted beer culture that dates back over 5,000 years. From traditional family-run breweries to innovative craft beer producers, Ireland has something for every palate. On International Beer Day, pubs across the country are buzzing with locals and tourists alike, sharing pints and stories over hearty laughter and live music.
Popular Beers in Ireland to Try This International Beer Day
Whether you’re visiting Ireland or celebrating from afar, here are some of the most popular Irish beers to enjoy:
1. Guinness Draught
No list of Irish beers is complete without Guinness. This iconic dry stout, born in Dublin in 1759, is synonymous with Irish brewing. Known for its creamy texture, roasted barley flavor, and velvety head, Guinness is the ultimate pint to raise on International Beer Day. For the freshest pour, head straight to the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Gravity Bar.
Tasting Notes: Roasted malt, chocolate, coffee
ABV: 4.2%
2. Smithwick’s Red Ale
One of Ireland’s oldest beers, Smithwick’s has been brewed since 1710 in Kilkenny. It’s a traditional Irish red ale that’s smooth, malty, and slightly sweet, with a mild hop bitterness that makes it approachable for new beer drinkers.
Tasting Notes: Caramel, toasted malt, mild hops
ABV: 3.8%
3. Harp Lager
Created by Guinness in 1960 to cater to lager drinkers, Harp is a crisp and clean pale lager brewed in Dundalk. It’s immensely popular in both Ireland and the UK and offers a refreshing counterpoint to the country’s many heavier stouts and ales.
Tasting Notes: Light malt, mild bitterness, floral aroma
ABV: 4.5%
4. Murphy’s Irish Stout
Hailing from Cork, Murphy’s is a lesser-known alternative to Guinness but just as beloved by locals. It’s smoother and slightly sweeter, with more chocolate and coffee undertones. If you’re in southern Ireland this International Beer Day, don’t miss out on this Cork classic.
Tasting Notes: Mocha, caramel, subtle bitterness
ABV: 4.0%
5. Beamish Irish Stout
Also from Cork, Beamish is a stout with a rich history dating back to 1792. It’s a favorite among traditionalists and offers a deeper roasted flavor compared to its competitors. It’s hard to find outside Ireland, making it a must-try if you’re visiting during International Beer Day.
Tasting Notes: Roasted coffee, dark chocolate, dry finish
ABV: 4.1%
6. O’Hara’s Irish Pale Ale
For those who prefer craft beer, O’Hara’s Brewery in County Carlow is a standout. Their Irish Pale Ale delivers hoppy brightness balanced with malt character. It’s a great example of Ireland’s growing craft beer scene and a popular choice on International Beer Day for hop heads.
Tasting Notes: Citrus, pine, biscuit malt
ABV: 5.2%
7. Galway Bay’s “Of Foam and Fury”
Looking for something bolder? Galway Bay Brewery‘s Of Foam and Fury is a double IPA that’s packed with hops and bursting with tropical fruit flavors. It’s one of the most adventurous Irish beers on the market and beloved among craft beer aficionados.
Tasting Notes: Pineapple, mango, resinous hops
ABV: 8.5%
Where to Celebrate International Beer Day in Ireland
If you’re lucky enough to be in Ireland on August 1, 2025, here are a few top spots to enjoy a pint:
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The Brazen Head, Dublin – One of Ireland’s oldest pubs with a cozy, historic ambiance.
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The Porterhouse, Dublin – One of the country’s first craft beer bars.
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Kyteler’s Inn, Kilkenny – A medieval pub with centuries of stories.
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Franciscan Well, Cork – A microbrewery with a beer garden and wood-fired pizza.
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Tigh Neachtain, Galway – Known for live music and a wide craft beer selection.
Sample 5-Night Ireland Brewery Tour Itinerary
Sip your way through Ireland’s best breweries while soaking up its scenic countryside, vibrant cities, and rich culture. Here is our 5-night Ireland Brewery Tour itinerary round-trip to Dublin.
Day 1: Dublin – A Pint of History
Welcome to Ireland! Kick off your beer journey in Dublin, where history and hops go hand in hand.
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Head straight to the legendary Guinness Storehouse for a multi-sensory experience that ends with a panoramic pint at the Gravity Bar.
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Use a Do-Dublin hop-on hop-off pass to explore top landmarks at your own pace.
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In the evening, enjoy dinner and local craft brews in The Liberties, Dublin’s historic brewing district. Grab a pint at The Beer Market or Against the Grain.
Overnight in Dublin.
Day 2: Kilkenny – Red Ales & Medieval Tales
Make your way south to the charming town of Kilkenny (approx. 1.5 hrs).
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Discover the story behind one of Ireland’s most beloved red ales at the Smithwick’s Experience.
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Wander the cobbled streets, visit the striking Kilkenny Castle, and explore this medieval gem.
Overnight in Kilkenny.
Day 3: Cork – The Stout Capital of the South
Journey to Cork (approx. 2 hrs), home to a proud brewing legacy.
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Stop by Franciscan Well Brewery, a pioneer in Ireland’s craft beer scene.
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Enjoy a creamy pint of Murphy’s or Beamish in a traditional pub—locals will tell you which they prefer!
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Sample the best of Cork cuisine at the historic English Market, filled with artisan food stalls.
Overnight in Cork.
Day 4: Galway – Craft Brews & Coastal Views
Head west to the lively city of Galway (approx. 3 hrs).
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Tour Galway Bay Brewery and taste a flight of bold and hoppy brews.
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Don’t miss “Of Foam and Fury”, a cult-favorite double IPA, at their flagship Oslo Bar in Salthill.
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In the evening, stroll through Galway’s Latin Quarter, where live music spills from every pub.
Overnight in Galway.
Day 5: Return to Dublin – Cheers to the Journey
Head back east to Dublin—but consider a tasty detour.
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Optional stop in Carlow to visit O’Hara’s Brewery, known for their standout Irish Pale Ale.
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Arrive in Dublin in time for a farewell dinner and drinks at one of the city’s top craft pubs.
Overnight in Dublin.
Celebrate Responsibly
Whether you’re sipping on a Guinness in a cozy Dublin pub or cracking open an Irish red ale at home, remember to celebrate responsibly. Pair your beers with traditional Irish fare like fish and chips, bangers and mash, or a hearty shepherd’s pie to elevate the experience.
Final Cheers
This International Beer Day, take a flavorful journey through Ireland’s most popular beers. From iconic stouts to bold craft brews, Irish beer offers something for every taste. Raise a pint, toast to good company, and embrace the spirit of Irish hospitality – sláinte!
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