The Fourth of July is one of the biggest beer-drinking weekends of the year. Backyard barbecues, beach bonfires, baseball, fireworks, and good friends all seem to pair perfectly with an ice-cold beer. If you’re anything like me, there’s a good chance an IPA will find its way into your hand.
Here’s the problem.
IPAs are my frenemy.
They’re bold, flavorful, incredibly refreshing, and packed with personality. They’re also the beer that taught me a valuable lesson about moderation. During my first year of discovering IPAs, I happily sampled brewery after brewery, pint after pint… and somehow managed to gain nearly twenty pounds before I realized those delicious hop bombs were also packing a pretty hefty calorie punch.
Do I regret it? Not really.
Would I do it again? Also… probably.
These days I’ve learned to strike a balance. I still enjoy a great IPA, but after one or two, I may switch over to something lighter like a Michelob Ultra or Coors Light. I still get to enjoy an ice-cold beer while cutting back on calories and alcohol, especially if it’s going to be a long day in the sun.
If you’re looking for something to enjoy this holiday weekend, here are a few of my favorites.
Hazy Sculpin – Ballast Point Brewing
A tropical twist on the brewery’s legendary Sculpin, Hazy Sculpin delivers juicy notes of mango, pineapple, and citrus with a softer bitterness than a traditional West Coast IPA. It’s smooth, refreshing, and dangerously easy to drink on a warm summer afternoon.
Space Dust IPA
Space Dust has earned its cult following for a reason. Bright citrus aromas meet bold hop character and a crisp finish that keeps you coming back for another sip. At 8.2% ABV, however, it can sneak up on you, so pace yourself.
Green Cheek West Coast IPA
Green Cheek consistently produces some of Southern California’s finest IPAs, and their West Coast offerings showcase everything fans love about the style. Expect crisp bitterness, bright citrus, pine, and exceptional drinkability that keeps hop lovers smiling.
Ride On IPA
Ride On is balanced, approachable, and full of classic hop flavor without being overwhelming. It’s one of those beers that works just as well while grilling burgers as it does relaxing with friends after the fireworks.
Por Favor IPA – Baja Brewing
Vacation in a glass. Por Favor combines bright tropical fruit with citrus and subtle floral notes, creating an easy-drinking IPA that’s perfect for beach days and sunny afternoons. If you’ve visited Baja, there’s a good chance you’ve already fallen in love with this one.
At the end of the day, beer is meant to be enjoyed. Whether you reach for a bold IPA, a crisp lager, a light beer, or something in between, the best choice is the one that helps you enjoy the people around you and the memories you’re making.
And if your favorite IPA happens to be your own little frenemy, don’t worry—I understand completely.
Whatever you’re drinking this Fourth of July, celebrate responsibly. Stay hydrated, know your limits, and if there’s any chance you’ll be driving, plan ahead. Schedule your Uber or Lyft before the festivities begin, or simply designate a sober driver. The only fireworks anyone should be seeing are the ones lighting up the night sky.
Happy Fourth of July—and cheers!
