The Most Popular Beers People Drink During Summer

When summer rolls around, beer drinkers start reaching for something a little different. The heavy winter stouts and dark ales take a back seat while crisp, refreshing, easy-drinking beers become the stars of backyard BBQs, lake days, baseball games, and warm evenings on the patio.

But what are the most popular beer styles people actually drink during the summer?

1. Mexican Lagers

Few beers scream summer louder than a Mexican Lager. Light-bodied, crisp, and highly drinkable, they're built for hot weather. These beers typically have a clean malt profile with just enough hop bitterness to keep things refreshing.

Whether you're enjoying tacos, grilling in the backyard, or spending the day by the pool, a Mexican Lager is hard to beat.

Why people love them:

• Crisp and refreshing
• Low bitterness
• Easy drinking
• Pairs well with almost any summer food

2. Blonde Ales

Blonde Ales are another summer favorite. They offer a little more flavor than a light lager while remaining approachable for almost every beer drinker.

Expect subtle malt sweetness, light fruit notes, and a smooth finish that makes you want another sip.

Perfect for:

• Brewery patios
• Weekend gatherings
• Introducing friends to craft beer

3. Hazy IPAs

For hop lovers, summer belongs to Hazy IPAs. These juicy, fruit-forward beers deliver flavors of mango, pineapple, citrus, peach, and tropical fruit without the aggressive bitterness found in traditional West Coast IPAs.

Their smooth mouthfeel and explosive aroma have made them one of the fastest-growing styles in craft beer.

Popular flavors:

• Mango
• Pineapple
• Orange
• Peach
• Passionfruit

4. Pale Ales

Pale Ales sit right in the sweet spot between easy drinking and full flavor. They provide enough hop character to satisfy craft beer enthusiasts while staying balanced and approachable.

A good Pale Ale pairs perfectly with burgers, grilled chicken, and just about anything coming off the BBQ.

5. Pilsners

Craft breweries have been embracing traditional Pilsners in recent years, and beer drinkers are loving it.

These beers showcase crisp malt character, floral hop aromas, and a clean finish that makes them incredibly refreshing on hot days.

Pilsners prove that simple doesn't mean boring.

6. Fruited Sours

Summer is peak season for fruit-forward sour beers. Strawberry, raspberry, watermelon, peach, and citrus flavors shine during warm weather.

The tartness adds an extra layer of refreshment, making them a favorite among both craft beer fans and people who don't typically drink beer.

Great for:

• Pool parties
• Brunches
• Beach days
• Anyone looking for something different

7. West Coast IPAs

While hazy beers continue to dominate, West Coast IPAs remain a summer staple. Their crisp finish and bright citrus flavors make them surprisingly refreshing despite their higher hop content.

Expect notes of:

• Grapefruit
• Pine
• Orange peel
• Tropical fruit

They're bold, flavorful, and pair exceptionally well with grilled foods.

What Makes a Great Summer Beer?

The best summer beers usually share a few common traits:

• Crisp finish
• Refreshing character
• High drinkability
• Balanced flavors
• Food-friendly profiles

At the end of the day, the best summer beer is the one you enjoy drinking with friends, family, and good company.

Stop By and Find Your Summer Favorite

Whether you're into crisp lagers, juicy IPAs, refreshing blondes, or fruit-forward sours, summer is the perfect time to explore new styles.

At The Keg Stand Brewing Co., we're always rotating fresh beers designed for Northern California summers. Grab a flight, find a new favorite, and enjoy a cold one with us.

Cheers to sunshine, good beer, and great company.