International Stout Day 2026
Thursday 5 November 2026
Stout is a beer style with several distinct interpretations. The Beer Judge Certification Program’s style guidelines distinguish Irish, sweet, oatmeal and imperial stouts, among others.
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Dates and event details
Thursday 5 November 2026. Held the first Thursday of November each year.
| Date status | Date source-confirmed for 2026 |
|---|---|
| Date-check source | WSET 2026 drinks calendar |
| Where | International |
What is a stout?
Stout is a beer style with several distinct interpretations. The Beer Judge Certification Program’s style guidelines distinguish Irish, sweet, oatmeal and imperial stouts, among others.
- Irish stout: often associated with roasted flavours and a comparatively dry finish.
- Sweet stout: a sweeter interpretation; check the ingredients, including whether a particular beer contains lactose.
- Imperial stout: a stronger, intensely flavoured style. Read the stated alcohol content rather than judging strength by colour.
Brewers also add their own ingredients or use different maturation methods. A beer described as tasting of coffee or chocolate does not necessarily contain either ingredient; check the label or ask the producer if that matters to you.
International Stout Day falls on Thursday 5 November 2026. It is an informal occasion for exploring stout, a family of dark beers whose flavours can range from dry and roasted to sweet and rich.
The date appears in WSET’s 2026 drinks calendar. Participation is usually organised by individual breweries, pubs and enthusiasts, so check directly with a venue rather than assuming there is a single worldwide programme.
Who started International Stout Day?
Untappd’s account of the day credits beer writer Erin Peters, known as The Beer Goddess, with founding it in Southern California in 2011. The occasion has been taken up by people and businesses in different countries.
An old campaign web address is not a reliable place to look for current participation details. Use a brewery’s or venue’s own listing for any 2026 event, booking conditions or special menu.
A small tasting for adults
If you choose to organise a tasting, make it about noticing differences rather than completing a large selection. Pick two contrasting styles, use small measured samples and leave room for people to skip either one.
Give each person a simple note sheet with three prompts: aroma, flavour and finish. Compare observations without treating a preferred beer as the correct answer. Provide water and suitable food, check ingredients and plan transport before drinking.
Ways to join without alcohol
You can explore brewing history, compare label designs or ask a brewer about ingredients without drinking. An alcohol-free stout may be another option; read its label carefully if you need to avoid alcohol entirely.
For a pub or brewery, give non-drinking guests the same useful information as everyone else: available alternatives, prices, food choices and a way to ask about ingredients. Nobody needs to explain their reason for opting out.
If sharing an event online, include the actual venue, date and booking link. #InternationalStoutDay identifies the occasion more clearly than a long collection of unrelated drinking slogans.
