BETHLEHEM, PA – The National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH), a Smithsonian<\/p>\n
Affiliate located on the historic SteelStacks campus, is proud to announce the opening of its newest museum-wide signature exhibition, \u201cCheers to 250! Brewing in<\/em><\/p>\n America,\u201d <\/em>debuting May 16th, 2026. Timed with the United States\u2019 semi-quincentennial, this immersive exhibition invites visitors to raise a glass to 250 years of American<\/p>\n innovation through the lens of one of the nation\u2019s most influential industries.<\/p>\n Spanning two and a half centuries, \u201cCheers to 250!\u201d <\/em>tells the story of how brewing evolved from colonial kitchens and neighborhood taverns into a global industrial powerhouse, one that shaped labor, transportation, science, and everyday social life.<\/p>\n From hand-crafted beginnings to cutting-edge production, the exhibition explores the<\/p>\n technological and cultural forces that transformed American brewing. \u201cCheers to 250!<\/em>\u201d features a diverse collection of artifacts, many on public display for the first time, alongside hands-on experiences and immersive interactive displays. Throughout the run of the<\/p>\n exhibit, the Museum will offer companion programming including guest lectures, demonstrations and workshops.<\/p>\n The exhibition opening on May 16th also intentionally bridges history, commemorating the 150th anniversary of the 1876 Centennial International Exhibition in Philadelphia,<\/p>\n America\u2019s first World\u2019s Fair. This groundbreaking event showcasing American<\/p>\n achievements in \u201cArts, Manufactures, and Products of the Soil and Mine\u201d including an entire building, Brewer\u2019s Hall, dedicated to the craft.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are not just opening an exhibition; we are continuing a long tradition of celebrating American industrial innovation,<\/em>\u201d said Andria Zaia, President and CEO of NMIH. \u201cJust as<\/p>\n brewers demonstrated their industrial strength at the 1876 Centennial, we are reflecting on 250 years of progress while looking ahead to the future of American ingenuity.\u201d<\/p>\n The \u201cCheers to 250!\u201d <\/em>exhibit opening celebration will take place from 10am to 6pm on May 16th. Highlights will include tastings, a colonial brewing demonstration, guest lectures,<\/p>\n pop-up displays, food, music and more. Admission is free for NMIH members and included with general admission.<\/p>\n Located in the heart of Bethlehem\u2019s vibrant Southside Arts District, and within walking<\/p>\n distance of five award-winning breweries, NMIH offers the perfect place to toast America\u2019s past, present, and future.<\/p>\n Whether you\u2019re a history enthusiast, craft beer fan, or looking for a unique way to celebrate America\u2019s 250th birthday, \u201cCheers to 250!\u201d <\/em>promises a spirited and unforgettable<\/p>\n experience.<\/p>\n \u201cCheers to 250! Brewing in America\u201d <\/em>is generously sponsored by Lost Tavern Brewing,<\/p>\n Keystone Savings Foundation, The Martin Guitar Charitable Foundation, Keystone Sound Design, WDIY 88.1 Lehigh Valley Public Radio, and Working Dog Press.<\/p>\n For more information, visit https:\/\/nmih.org\/cheersto250<\/a><\/p>\n A Smithsonian Institution-affiliate, the National Museum of Industrial History is dedicated to preserving America\u2019s rich industrial heritage. Housed in the former Bethlehem Steel<\/p>\n Electric Repair Shop built in 1913 on the largest private brownfield in America, the Museum is home to exciting exhibits, engaging programs and enriching history. Visit www.nmih.org<\/a> for more information<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Information provided to TVL by: BETHLEHEM, PA – The National Museum of Industrial History (NMIH), a Smithsonian Affiliate located on the historic SteelStacks campus, is proud to announce the opening of its newest museum-wide signature … Continue reading Raise a Glass to 250 Years of Ingenuity! National Museum of Industrial History Launches \u201cCheers to 250! Brewing in America\u201d on May 16, 2026<\/span> About NMIH<\/h1>\n
\nMegan Pildis<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"