The third annual IPA Day is Thursday, August 1, 2013, so get ready to . . . . . . do pretty much what most of you do each and every day.  Grab a beer and celebrate something.

Held the first Thursday of August, there’s not much more I can say about IPA day that I haven’t already said before.  However, the organizers have this to say:  

This illustrious style represents the pinnacle of brewing innovation with its broad spectrum of diverse brands, subcategories and regional flavor variations—making it the perfect style to galvanize craft beer’s social voice.

Honestly, I don’t buy into the idea that IPA represents the pinnacle of brewing innovation, but I’ll admit to being a big fan.  I’ve certainly brewed more IPAs than any other style and I’m getting thirsty just writing this. 

Photo Credit: Craftbeer.com

Oddly enough, despite having tried hundreds and enjoying many, picking my favorite commercially-brewed IPA is easy: Single Malt IPA from Blackfoot River Brewing Co.  There’s something about its incredible balance of malt and hops and its juicy citrus flavors that always bring me back.

Fundamentally, IPA Day is about social media, providing a common topic to discuss over various social media platforms.  Grab your twitter, facebook, Google+, Pintrest, or whatever platform floats your fingers and celebrate using the #IPAday hashtag. (Follow us @GrowlerFills). Your local brewery may also be showing some IPA love with beer specials, so check them out.