(Courtesy Anheuser-Busch)

Budweiser is kicking off the summer by picking up the tab for the Fourth of July, and giving Americans a chance to toast the country’s upcoming 250th birthday on the house. The nation’s #1 brewery is offering legal-aged drinkers a digital reward to grab a free beer, available until the collective tab runs out.

For the last 150 years, Budweiser has been a staple at backyard barbecues, summer concerts, and ballgames. Now, they are using this milestone celebration to say thank you to the people who buy their brews. And starting June 29, adults can head over to the Budweiser website to verify their age and claim a six-dollar digital gift card, which is good for a draught beer as long as supplies last.

According to Todd Allen, the Vice President of Marketing for Budweiser at Anheuser-Busch, the initiative is about more than just marking a major anniversary than a straightforward marketing ploy. He sees this simmer’s free beer giveaway is a way to thank the hardworking Americans who have made Budweiser a part of everyday life, as well as an opportunity to celebrate the country’s great heritage with a Bud.

The holiday push also extends to the brand’s packaging and its ongoing charitable efforts. Budweiser is rolling out limited-edition patriotic cans and bottles this summer while continuing its long-term support for Folds of Honor through its “American Beers for American Heroes” program.

A portion of the proceeds from Budweiser sales in bars and restaurants, capping out at 1.5 million dollars, will go directly toward funding educational scholarships for the families of fallen or disabled military service members and first responders. Over the last 16 years, Anheuser-Busch and its partners have donated 37 million dollars to the cause, helping fund 7,400 scholarships.

The nationwide summer celebration will hit the road over the holiday weekend with high-profile appearances. Fans can catch the festivities at the Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals matchup at Wrigley Field, a special event at the New York Times Square Ball Drop, and the Los Angeles 250 Block Party.

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