National Root Beer Day

A group of people in retro 1950s fashion enjoying mugs of root beer at a classic soda shop, complete with jukebox and checkered floors.. — National root beer day illustration

Hey there, root beer enthusiasts! Are you ready to celebrate one of the greatest creations known to soda-kind? Well, mark your calendars because National Root Beer Day is here to quench our thirst for knowledge and fizzy deliciousness. So, grab a frosty mug, put on your root beer-colored party hat, and let's dive into the bubbly world of this delightful beverage!

When is Root Beer Day?

It's national root beer day on the 6th August.

The Birth of Root Beer

Root beer has a long and fascinating history dating back to the colonial times. It all started with the Native Americans who brewed a fermented beverage using the roots of various plants. The drink was then passed on to the European settlers, who added their own twist to it.

Fast forward to the 1800s when the popularity of root beer skyrocketed. It became a favorite among families and even gained recognition as a staple drink in soda fountains. But it wasn't until the 20th century that it got the distinct flavor we know and love today.

The Internet Buzz

In the age of the internet, National Root Beer Day has gained quite a following. With over 95 mentions online, the frenzy reached its peak on August 6, 2015. People took to social media to express their love for this effervescent beverage and share fun facts and recipes.

Fun Fact: A Root Beer Lover's Paradise

Did you know that there's a restaurant in Iowa dedicated entirely to root beer? That's right! The Root Beer Stand in Sharon Springs is a haven for root beer fanatics. They serve up over 100 different flavors of this fizzy concoction, making it a dream come true for anyone craving a unique root beer experience.

History behind the term 'Root Beer'

1876

The Birth of Root Beer

Root beer, a carbonated beverage made from the root of the sassafras tree, was first introduced to the world in 1876. It was invented by Charles Elmer Hires, a pharmacist from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Hires originally called his creation 'Hires Root Tea' and marketed it as a herbal remedy that could purify the blood and cure various ailments.

1876

The Birth of Root Beer

Root beer, a popular non-alcoholic beverage, was created in 1876 by Charles E. Hires, a Philadelphia pharmacist. Hires was inspired by a homemade herbal tea made from roots, berries, and other botanicals that he had tasted during his travels. He aimed to create a more convenient and commercially viable version of this beverage, and so he developed a syrup that could be mixed with carbonated water.

16th century

Colonial Roots

Root beer has its origins in the 16th century when European colonists arrived in America. They brought with them various botanical herbs and spices, including sassafras roots, which were used medicinally to treat various ailments. The native American Indians also had their own herbal brews, which were made from the roots and barks of local plants.

1876

The Birth of Root Beer

In 1876, root beer was first mentioned as a term to describe a non-alcoholic, carbonated beverage flavored with roots, herbs, and spices. It was created by Philadelphia pharmacist Charles Elmer Hires, who was inspired by an herb tea made by Native Americans. Hires began selling his homemade root beer extract to the public, making it possible for people to brew their own batches at home.

1800s

The Origins of Root Beer

In the 1800s, the term 'root beer' came into existence as a beverage that was originally made from various roots, barks, and herbs. It originated in North America and was often brewed at home by settlers and Native American tribes. These early versions of root beer were made by fermenting sassafras root, juniper berries, birch bark, and other plant ingredients. The resulting drink had a distinct earthy flavor and was often considered a herbal remedy for various ailments.

1767

Medicinal Origins

The term 'root beer' traces its origins back to the medicinal concoctions made by Native Americans using sassafras roots as early as 1767. These medicinal brews were believed to have healing properties and were consumed to treat various ailments.

1700s

Root Beer: Origins as a Medicinal Beverage

In the early 1700s, American colonists began brewing a beverage using various plant roots and herbs, which eventually became known as root beer. These early versions of root beer were primarily created for their purported medicinal properties. The ingredients often included sassafras bark, birch bark, dandelion, and other botanicals believed to have healing properties.

1893

Debut of Hires Root Beer

In 1893, Hires introduced Hires Root Beer to the public at the Colombian Exposition in Chicago. It quickly gained popularity and became one of the most successful beverages of the era. Hires' secret recipe featured a blend of around 25 roots, herbs, and berries, including sassafras, sarsaparilla, wintergreen, ginger, and birch bark. The unique combination of flavors made Hires Root Beer stand out among its competitors.

1876

First Commercial Root Beer

In 1876, pharmacist Charles Elmer Hires introduced the first commercially produced root beer at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. Hires' root beer consisted of a blend of sassafras, sarsaparilla, ginger, and other herbs, creating a unique and refreshing beverage.

1800s

The Birth of Commercial Root Beer

In the mid-1800s, the production of root beer transitioned from homes to commercial operations. Charles Hires, a Philadelphia pharmacist, is often credited with popularizing root beer by introducing a pre-packaged powdered extract in 1876. This made it easier for people to enjoy root beer at home. Other companies soon followed suit, and commercially brewed root beer became widely available.

18th century

Colonial Brews

In the 18th century, as the colonies grew and developed, the use of sassafras roots became more prevalent. These roots were boiled in water to extract their flavor and medicinal properties, and then sweetened with molasses, honey, or sugar. This concoction was often referred to as 'small beer,' as it contained very low levels of alcohol, making it a popular choice among people of all ages.

1876

Charles Hires and Commercialization

In 1876, Charles E. Hires, a Philadelphia pharmacist, introduced a commercial version of root beer. Hires claimed that his root beer recipe was inspired by a Native American herbal tea, which he had tried during his honeymoon. Hires marketed his root beer as a 'temperance beverage', as it contained no alcohol. He sold his root beer extract in a concentrated form, which consumers could then mix with water and carbonated soda to produce their own root beer. Hires also distributed his branded root beer extract to soda fountains and ice cream parlors, making it more widely available.

1893

The Introduction of Hires Root Beer

In 1893, Charles Elmer Hires introduced Hires Root Beer at the Chicago World's Fair. It was the first commercially bottled root beer and gained immense popularity at the fair, leading to its widespread distribution across the United States. Hires Root Beer became the iconic brand associated with the term 'root beer' and is still enjoyed today.

1880

The Renaming

As the popularity of 'Hires Root Tea' grew, Hires decided to rebrand his product to 'Hires Root Beer' in 1880. This was mainly due to the fact that the beverage had become associated more with the refreshing taste of traditional beer rather than medicinal tea. The name change helped position the drink as a popular non-alcoholic alternative in an era when alcohol consumption was increasingly discouraged.

1893

Root Beer's Debut at the World's Columbian Exposition

In 1893, root beer gained significant attention and popularity when it was featured at the World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago. The exposition was a grand event that celebrated the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival in the Americas. Many visitors from around the world were introduced to root beer for the first time at the exposition. This exposure helped root beer become more widely known and established it as a notable beverage.

1893

Root Beer at the World's Fair

Root beer gained significant exposure and popularity at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago. Several vendors sold their own versions of the beverage, sparking intense competition among the various brands. This helped solidify root beer's place in American culture and paved the way for its continued success in the years to come.

1893

Bottled Root Beer

In 1893, the Cudahy Packing Company became the first to commercially bottle root beer. This innovation made root beer easily accessible to a wider audience and contributed to its growing popularity as a non-alcoholic alternative to other beverages.

Early 1900s

Prohibition and Root Beer's Rise in Popularity

During the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933), the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were prohibited. However, the demand for enjoyable beverages remained. Root beer, being a non-alcoholic alternative, saw a surge in popularity during this time. Many breweries and soda companies adapted their operations to produce root beer, helping to solidify its place in American culture.

1919

Prohibition and the Rise of Root Beer

During the era of Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933), the consumption of alcoholic beverages was prohibited. This led to a surge in the popularity of non-alcoholic beverages, including root beer. Many breweries and soda companies started producing root beer as an alternative to beer, catering to the growing demand for refreshing, effervescent beverages.

Early 20th Century

Prohibition and Near-Beer

During the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933), the production and sale of alcoholic beverages were banned. However, the demand for beer-like drinks persisted. As a result, breweries and other beverage companies started producing non-alcoholic versions of their popular brews, including root beer. These non-alcoholic alternatives, often labeled as 'near-beer,' allowed people to enjoy a beer-like experience without breaking the law.

1830s

Doctoring the Brew

In the 1830s, a Philadelphia pharmacist named Charles Hires began experimenting with different combinations of roots, herbs, and berries to create a unique flavored beverage. He eventually developed a recipe that included sassafras, wintergreen, ginger, and other herbs, which he called 'Hires Root Beer.' The drink gained popularity as a health tonic and was sold as a concentrate that could be mixed with water and carbonated at home.

20th Century

Root Beer as a Popular Soft Drink

Throughout the 20th century, root beer became increasingly popular as a soft drink. It was readily available in bottled and canned forms, and many regional brands emerged, each with their unique recipes and flavors. Root beer often became associated with summer picnics, outdoor gatherings, and nostalgic Americana. The popularity of root beer led to the creation of iconic root beer float desserts, where a scoop of vanilla ice cream is added to a glass of root beer, creating a creamy and fizzy treat enjoyed by many.

Mid-20th Century

The Rise of Commercial Brands

With the advent of mass production and marketing tactics, the popularity of root beer skyrocketed in the mid-20th century. Many commercial brands emerged, each with its unique recipes and marketing strategies. Notable brands included A&W Root Beer, Barq's, and Mug Root Beer. These companies heavily promoted their beverages, with A&W Root Beer even popularizing the concept of drive-in restaurants, where customers could enjoy a frosty mug of their signature root beer.

Mid-19th century

Bottled Goodness

As the demand for root beer grew, companies began manufacturing and bottling the beverage for mass distribution. Hires himself started selling pre-bottled root beer in 1893, becoming one of the first commercially successful brands. Other companies soon followed suit, including A&W and Barq's, further popularizing root beer as a refreshing and non-alcoholic alternative to beer.

1919

Prohibition Influence

During the era of Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933), the demand for non-alcoholic beverages surged. Root beer became particularly popular during this time as it provided a flavorful and enjoyable alternative to alcoholic drinks, leading to a significant increase in production and consumption.

1919

Prohibition and the Rise of Non-Alcoholic Beverages

The era of Prohibition in the United States (1920-1933), which banned the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages, led to a surge in popularity for non-alcoholic alternatives like root beer. As alcohol became more difficult to obtain, people turned to beverages like root beer as a way to enjoy a cold, carbonated drink without the legal implications. This period further solidified root beer as a quintessentially American beverage.

1960s

Root Beer Becomes a Mainstream Soft Drink

In the 1960s, root beer transitioned from being primarily a homemade or small-scale production to becoming a mainstream soft drink. Major soda companies recognized its popularity and began producing their own versions of root beer, leading to a wider availability and increased consumption of root beer across the country. Root beer became a staple flavor in the soda industry.

Mid-1900s

Mass Production and Bottled Root Beer

In the mid-1900s, advances in technology and bottling techniques allowed for the mass production and widespread distribution of root beer. Companies like A&W Root Beer and Hires Root Beer gained immense popularity, leading to the establishment of iconic root beer stands and drive-ins. Bottled root beer quickly became a beloved beverage enjoyed by people all over the country.

20th century

Evolution and Variations

In the 20th century, the popularity of root beer continued to soar, with new variations and flavors being introduced. Some brands experimented with adding ingredients like vanilla, birch bark, and licorice, resulting in unique and diverse taste profiles. Root beer floats, a combination of root beer and ice cream, also gained popularity as a delightful treat on hot summer days.

1971

Sassafras Ban and Reformulation

In 1971, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of sassafras bark and oil in food products due to concerns over its potential carcinogenic properties. Sassafras was one of the key ingredients in traditional root beer recipes, and its removal forced many companies to reformulate their recipes. Most modern root beers now use artificial or natural flavors to mimic the taste of sassafras and other botanicals.

Present

Diverse Varieties and Craft Root Beer

Today, root beer comes in a wide variety of brands, flavors, and styles. Craft breweries have also embraced the tradition of making homemade root beer, experimenting with unique ingredients and techniques to create artisanal versions of the classic beverage. Root beer continues to be cherished by both soda enthusiasts and those seeking a non-alcoholic alternative with its distinct taste and foaminess.

1960s

Indigenous Sassafras Concerns

In the 1960s, concerns were raised about the safety of sassafras, one of the key ingredients in traditional root beer recipes. It was discovered that sassafras contains a chemical called safrole, which was found to be carcinogenic. As a result, the use of sassafras in commercially produced root beer was largely phased out, and alternative flavorings were used instead.

Modern Times

Variety and Artisanal Root Beers

In modern times, root beer continues to be a beloved beverage, albeit with a more diverse range of offerings. Craft and artisanal breweries have begun producing small-batch, handcrafted root beers with unique flavor profiles. Additionally, there are numerous variations of the drink, including alcoholic versions and gourmet root beers made with high-quality ingredients. Root beer has become a part of American cultural identity and a symbol of nostalgia for many.

Present

Root Beer: A Cultural Staple

Root beer has become a cultural staple in America and has expanded its popularity to other parts of the world. Modern root beers typically no longer contain sassafras due to health concerns related to its safrole content, but they still capture the unique flavors of traditional recipes. From classic brands to craft breweries, there is a wide variety of root beer available today, allowing people to continue enjoying this beloved and refreshing beverage.

Modern era

Variety and Popularity

In the modern era, root beer has evolved to encompass a wide variety of flavors, with different brands and artisanal producers offering unique twists on the classic recipe. It has become a beloved beverage, especially in the United States, enjoyed by people of all ages as a nostalgic and refreshing treat.

Present Day

Root Beer Today

Today, root beer remains a beloved beverage in many parts of the world. While traditional recipes still exist, new craft breweries have emerged, offering handcrafted, small-batch root beers with a focus on natural ingredients and unique flavor profiles. Root beer continues to be a symbol of American nostalgia, evoking memories of soda fountains, drive-in movie theaters, and childhood summers.

Did you know?

Fun Fact: Did you know that there's a restaurant in Iowa dedicated entirely to root beer? That's right! The Root Beer Stand in Sharon Springs is a haven for root beer fanatics. They serve up over 100 different flavors of this fizzy concoction, making it a dream come true for anyone craving a unique root beer experience.