National Homebrew Competition
The National Homebrew Competition (NHC) gives homebrewers a chance to receive invaluable feedback on their entries and also recognizes the most outstanding, world-class homebrewed beer, mead, and cider.
In 1979, 34 entries competed in the first American Homebrewers Association (AHA) National Homebrew Competition held in Boulder, Colorado. Since 1979, more than 170,000 entries have been evaluated, and the NHC has become the largest homebrew competition in the world.
NHC 2026 guidelines and registration information coming soon!
Competition Updates
47th Annual National Homebrew Competition Honors Top Homemade Beer, Cider, & Mead
The 2025 competition received 2,974 entries from 1,086 American Homebrewers Association members across 48 states, Washington, D.C., and 7 countries.
NHC 2025: Final Round Judging & Awards Ceremony Details
We're excited to announce that Kansas City, Mo., is the home of the 2025 National Homebrew Competition (NHC) Final Round and awards ceremony. After two great years in San Diego, we're looking forward to bringing the Final Round to a new city with a vibrant homebrewing scene.
Register Now: 2025 National Homebrew Competition
It's that time of year again: Registration is open for the 2025 National Homebrew Competition (NHC)!