World Beer Day: interesting statistics on the most popular drink in Slovenia

On August 7, 2026, Slovenia joined the global celebration of World Beer Day, a tradition that began in 2007 in Santa Cruz, California. In Slovenia, beer holds a prominent place in both culture and economy. According to data from the Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia, 65 companies were engaged in beer production in 2024, a decrease of five compared to the previous year. The number of breweries has been increasing since 2010, when there were just 13 in the country. The highest number was recorded in 2019 and 2023, with 70 breweries each year. The economic impact of beer in Slovenia is substantial. Revenue from beer sales, including non-alcoholic varieties, reached nearly 217 million euros in 2024, marking a three percent increase from the previous year and the highest figure in the last decade. The lowest revenue was recorded in 2016, at 151 million euros. On average, consumers paid 3.92 euros for a standard liter of beer or a pint. A liter of lager, one of the most common types, cost approximately 2.20 euros in stores. In June 2026, beer prices were 0.4 percent higher than during the same period in 2025. Slovenia both imports and exports beer. Last year, the country imported beer worth almost 34 million euros, primarily from Croatia, which was also the largest export destination. Approximately 7.4 million euros worth of beer was exported to Croatia, accounting for roughly a third of the total export value. To mark World Beer Day, members of the Association of Slovenian Breweries gathered in Šempeter in the Savinja Valley to present their knowledge and products. They introduced the Beerpass project, which connects brewing with local attractions and tourist experiences. Awards for high-quality beers will also be presented. Additional beer-related events took place in Žale, where the Kriglfest festival opened at Fontana Brewery. Beer in Slovenia is more than just a beverage, it is part of tradition and environment. This is evident from the map showing two "Brewery Streets", one in Ljubljana and another in Laško. The Ljubljana Brewery Street has six house numbers according to statistical records, while the Laško one has three. At the beginning of this year, 34 residents lived on these streets combined.