We’re all beer enthusiasts, that’s for sure. But how much do you really know about it? From ancient brewing rituals to record-breaking alcohol percentages, there are countless fun facts about beer hiding beneath the foam. In this collection of beer trivia facts, we’ll explore surprising stories, quirky traditions and fascinating beer history fun facts that have shaped global beer culture as we know it today. So whether you’re pouring a pint at home with your BLADE beer tap, heading to the pub, or prepping for your next quiz night, these interesting beer facts will make sure you’ve always got something impressive to say between sips. The first beer was brewed in 4,000 BC It happened in Mesopotamia (a historical region covering parts of present-day Iraq and Iran). Brewing beer was considered a mystical process at the time. Men couldn't interfere with beer brewing; only women had this privilege. Brewers were seen as priests, standing especially close to the Gods. There's a beer with an alcohol percentage of 67.5% The world's strongest beer (in terms of alcohol) is aptly named Snake Venom. Brewed by the Scottish brewery, Brewmeister, this beer boasts an alcohol percentage of — let's repeat that because, holy moly, it's high — sixty-seven-point five percent! In the Middle Ages, beer was healthier than water This was because water was often contaminated, posing a whole load of health risks. Beer was also relatively cheap, making it a beverage for all ages, consumed throughout the day. Althoguh, the alcohol percentage was quite a bit lower back then. Women are less tolerant to alcohol No, it's not a myth. Women generally get intoxicated faster because their fluid levels are lower. Men have a higher fluid content, allowing them to handle beer better. Straws were invented for beer Yes, really! It’s thought that the Sumerians (a civilisation of southern Mesopotamia) drank beer with straws after the discovery of straw-like artefacts at archaeological sites. These objects were found alongside pottery vessels and brewing equipment. Some theories propose that the Sumerians used these straws to avoid the solid residues that might have been present in their beer. Oktoberfest is the world's largest beer festival We already know that a fair amount of beer is consumed during Oktoberfest. But did you know that the beer festival in Germany is the largest in the world? In Munich, during those two weeks of celebration, approximately 6 to 7 million litres of beer are consumed. And rest assured, this beer is of high quality because official Oktoberfest beers need to meet strict criteria. The word 'honeymoon' is connected to beer Although we don't necessarily associate honeymoons with beer nowadays, it used to be so. In the Middle Ages, it was customary for newlyweds to drink mead (a drink made from fermented honey and water) for an entire 30-day lunar cycle. This was believed to bring prosperity and fertility. Although mead is not made by fermenting sugars from malted grains, it's often considered a type of beer. Light affects the taste of beer You've probably seen the advice 'store cool and dark' on your bottle of beer. It's there for a reason. Light can alter the taste and aroma of beer. If you leave beer bottles in direct light for too long, there’s a chance your beer might end up smelling pretty nasty. So, into the refrigerator it goes! Beer makes you urinate more often If you're at a festival, concert, or party, it sometimes feels like you're standing in line for the toilet for the tenth time that night. Okay, ten times might be an exaggeration, but beer does make you need to go more often. Alcohol is inherently diuretic, and with the amount of water in beer, the effect on your bladder is even greater. The average Brit consumed 67.6 litres of beer in 2021 If you’ve spent a Friday night out in Newcastle, Leeds or Bristol, you’d think that puts the UK at least in the top ten of the list. Despite our boozy reputation, we’re not even in the top 20. According to a recent poll by Kirin Brewing Company, Czechia holds the top spot with the average person drinking 181.70 litres of beer in 2021. Yes, that’s… a lot of beer. From ancient Mesopotamian brewers to modern-day beer festivals pouring millions of litres, beer has always played a huge role in global history and society. These beer culture facts show that beer is far more than just a drink. It’s tradition, science, celebration and community all in one glass. So next time you’re enjoying a perfectly poured pint, whether at your local or from your BLADE at home, drop one of these fun facts about beer into the conversation. Who knows? You might just win that next pub quiz.