September is here, and the Taproom is buzzing with new beers, returning favorites, and plenty of ways to connect with our community. This month, we’re pouring everything from bold, aromatic IPAs to crisp German-style brews, plus our classic fan favorites that never go out of style.
But it’s not just about the beer—September is packed with events, music, and activities that make the taproom a place to gather, laugh, and enjoy the season together. From hands-on workshops and family-friendly festivals to spirited games and live tunes, there’s always something happening to suit every mood. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick pint, settling in for an afternoon of fun, or exploring one of our signature seasonal releases, there’s no better time to pull up a chair and soak in the experience.
Beer Releases
New Brews Coming Up On Draft
The taps are about to turn over, and we’ve got some fresh pours worth slipping into your glass. West Coast and Pale Ale classics are making their return, and yes—more Hazy’s are flying in. On deck: a new Hazy, a crisp West Coast Pilsner, a bold West Coast IPA, and a West Coast Pale Ale.
Here’s a peek behind the curtain:
A small-batch Hazy IPA with Citra and Mosaic—bright, hop-forward, and built for easy sipping.- A West Coast Pilsner that’s light on its feet but heavy on flavor, with Citra, NZ Pacifica, and a hit of NZ Nectarine hop terpenes.
- Another Hazy IPA, this one brewed with Citra and El Dorado for that juicy, orangey haze you’ll want another round of.
And keep an eye out—later this month we’ll be adding a Landbier and a rich, malty Weizenbock to the lineup.
Terpene Wolverine – West Coast IPA
Terpene Wolverine is crisp, dry, and sharp as a well-tailored suit. It leans on hop terpenes, a new innovation in brewing that delivers the hop flavors you want without the ones you don’t. The foundation is built on Southern Hemisphere hops, then dry-hopped with Motueka Amplifier (cryo), Citra, Galaxy, and Citra terpenes. The result is a clean, bright pour with layers of citrus and tropical punch, finished with the unapologetic edge you expect from a true West Coast.
Digital Ouija Board – Decocted Italian Pilsner
This collaboration with our friends at Tasty Beverage in Raleigh brings two worlds of pilsner together in one glass. We combined the crisp traditions of Czech brewing with the refined style of Italian pilsner. Every ingredient and step of the process is authentically Czech—floor-malted pilsner malt, decoction mashing, and a generous dose of Czech Kazbek hops. The recipe specs, however, lean Italian, with lower kettle hops and IBUs than a classic Czech pour, and a light dry hop with Kazbek instead of the German varieties you’d normally find in Italian pils. The result is a clean, balanced lager that’s familiar yet unexpected, and perfect for easy sipping.
Marigold Magic – Pale Ale
Brewed in support of Hops for Hope, this Pale Ale is built with a modern West Coast twist. The pale malt went through a long step mash with a single decoction, adding a depth and body that you don’t often find in pale ales. Fermentation comes courtesy of “Daybreak,” a designer yeast strain originally used in hazy IPAs. Its haze-producing gene has been removed, leaving behind a softer, rounder, and fruitier profile without the cloudy appearance. The hop bill features Cashmere, El Dorado, and a touch of Krush cryo, creating a citrus-forward flavor that leans into lemon, lime, and candied orange. The result is a bright, expressive Pale Ale that is as easy to enjoy as it is layered in detail.
Dayman IPA – West Coast IPA
Dayman IPA is a West Coast-style IPA that combines the juicy, soft qualities of a hazy with the crisp, clear finish of a classic West Coast brew. Using Omega’s Daybreak yeast—a modified English strain traditionally used for hazy beers—this IPA achieves clarity without sacrificing tropical flavor. Packed with New Zealand Riwaka and HBC 586 hops, Dayman delivers layers of white gummy bears and vibrant tropical fruit, making it a bold, flavorful beer for any occasion. At 7.2% ABV, it’s a champion of drinkability and taste, perfect for quenching your thirst or celebrating with friends.
Tuxedo at a Pool Party – German Pilsner
Crisp, clean, and effortlessly classy—this German-style pilsner proves you don’t need an occasion to enjoy something refined. Brewed with German malt using a traditional step mash, hopped with Hallertau Mittelfrüh and Saphir, and naturally carbonated while lagering in horizontal tanks, it’s a beer that takes patience and skill. The result? A pilsner that fits right in at both black-tie soirées and backyard pool hang parties.
The Rhine – Amber Ale
The Rhine is a traditional German-style Altbier inspired by the brewing heritage of Düsseldorf. Crafted with a generous portion of Munich malt, a touch of crystal malt, and balanced by noble German hops, this amber ale delivers a smooth, malt-forward character with just the right amount of bitterness. Fermented cool with a clean, neutral ale yeast, it’s a no-frills, perfectly balanced beer that honors its roots while offering a crisp, modern drinkability. At 5.5% ABV, The Rhine is a timeless choice for those who appreciate classic European brewing traditions.
Blackbird Kölsch
Our classic Kölsch is a light, crisp German-style ale that drinks like a lager but offers a unique twist. Expect delicate stone fruit, salt cracker, and chalky aromas that are signature to the style. We brew it with a special selection of malt and hops, a unique yeast strain, a tricky alkaline water profile, and three weeks of cold conditioning to fully develop its personality. At 4.5% ABV, this Kölsch is refreshingly smooth, perfectly balanced, and a beer style we can’t get enough of.
Perry’s Revelation – Weizenbock
Perry’s Revelation Weizenbock is a rich, higher-gravity take on a classic Hefeweizen, brewed with an increased proportion of wheat for depth and body. Featuring locally grown red wheat from Perry Family Farm in Rolesville, along with Vienna and Belgian Special B malts, this copper-colored beer offers subtle notes of caramel and dark fruit. Despite its complexity, it remains highly drinkable—a perfect autumnal beer at 6.8% ABV that balances tradition with approachable flavor.
Perry’s Epiphany – Hefeweizen
Perry’s Epiphany Hefeweizen is a classic German-style wheat beer that highlights local ingredients and traditional brewing techniques. Half of the grain comes from wheat grown just four miles away at Perry Family Farm in Rolesville and is malted at Epiphany Craft Malt in Durham.
Brewed the hard way, this beer went through five mash steps, including two decoctions, to capture every bit of character from these exceptional malts. Naturally carbonated and unfiltered, Perry’s Epiphany Hefeweizen is a refreshing wheat beer with depth and flavor that honors the craft. At 4.8% ABV, it’s perfect for enjoying a taste of classic German brewing with a local twist.
Upcoming Special Events
September 1st (1-10 PM): Labor Day Hot Dogs
This Labor Day, we’re keeping things simple: good beer, good company, and a little something from the grill. We’ll be open from 1–10 PM, giving you plenty of time to stop by and enjoy a pint (or two). To celebrate the holiday, we’ll be serving up free hot dogs throughout the day—the perfect match for a cold brew. Gather your friends, kick back, and make the most of your day off with us. After all, nothing says Labor Day quite like a relaxed afternoon at the brewery.
September 3rd (5-8 PM): Spicy Pages Mobile Bookshop Pop-Up at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Get ready to add some spice to your reading routine! The Spicy Pages Mobile Bookshop is rolling into Bird’s Nest at Blackbird for a special pop-up event. Browse a curated selection of books, chat with fellow book lovers, and discover new stories to take home—all while enjoying your favorite drinks in our cozy cocktail lounge. Don’t forget to bring your Book Club bookmark—it’s your ticket to the secret menu waiting behind the bar. Whether you’re hunting for your next page-turner or just stopping by to soak in the literary vibes, this is the perfect midweek escape.
September 6th (11 AM): Saturday Workout and Social with Cynergy Fit
Looking for a fun way to sweat, connect, and kick off your weekend? We’ve got just the thing. We’re teaming up with Cynergy Fit, an outdoor bootcamp community here in Wake Forest, for a free session that’s all about strength, cardio, and high-intensity movement—functional fitness that’s made for all levels.
Bring your fitness mat, a set of dumbbells, and plenty of water, then get ready for a full-body sweat session that will leave you feeling strong and energized. And the best part? When the workout’s done, you can stick around with us in the taproom—because nothing pairs better with new friends and good vibes than a well-earned pint (or two). Register here!
September 6th (3-6 PM): Dogs Deserve Better Piedmont Supply Drive
We’re teaming up with Dogs Deserve Better Piedmont for a community Supply & Donation Drive—and we’d love for you to be part of it. Dogs Deserve Better Piedmont steps in when families can’t afford spay/neuter services, vet care, or even the basics like food and supplies. They also work to unchain dogs that are living tied up outdoors, giving them the chance at happier, healthier lives.
This drive is our chance to lend a hand—and a paw—to pets in need. We’ll be collecting new or gently used items, including:
- Elevated dog beds
- Food and water bowls
- Dog food & treats
- Toys
- Leashes & collars
- Dog houses
Every item donated goes directly to pets in our community who need it most. So come enjoy a drink, meet the Dogs Deserve Better Piedmont team, and help us raise supplies for a cause that matters. Together, we can make a real difference—one wagging tail at a time.
September 7th (1-3 PM): Glow & Flow Candle Making and Creative Mindset Workshop with Hand The Light
We’re turning the taproom into a space for creativity and relaxation with a special candle-making workshop hosted by Hand The Light. This hands-on experience is all about slowing down, crafting something unique, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the taproom.
During the workshop, you’ll:
- Learn the basics of candle-pouring with fragrance oils and premium soy wax
- Take part in a guided creative mindset session designed to inspire relaxation
- Pour and customize your own soy candle to take home—infused with your personal style
Of course, craft beer will be available for purchase to sip while you create. Tickets are $43 (plus eventbrite fees) and spots are limited, so be sure to grab your ticket early and join us for an evening that blends craftsmanship, creativity, and community.
September 8th (3-5 PM): USBG Bourbon Education at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Join us for an afternoon of learning and tasting with the United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG). Open to all industry professionals, this special bourbon class will dive into the art of barrel aging, exploring how time in the barrel shapes flavor, aroma, and character. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or just curious about what makes each pour unique, this session is a chance to expand your knowledge, taste thoughtfully, and enjoy the craft of fine spirits.
September 13th (1-6 PM): Hops for Hope
We’re excited to join Hops for Hope, a family-friendly festival at Midtown Park in North Hills that brings together craft beer, community, and a great cause. This annual event pairs local breweries with corporate teams to create one-of-a-kind beers, all while raising funds to support Children’s Flight of Hope—an organization that helps children and families access life-changing and life-saving medical care.
We will be pouring some of our signature brews alongside more than 30 other breweries and businesses from across the Triangle. Tickets include unlimited tastings, live music, food vendors, and the chance to connect with fellow beer lovers while supporting a meaningful cause.
Last year, nearly 1,800 attendees joined the festival, helping raise over $475,000. This year promises to be even bigger and better. Come sip, sample, and celebrate with us while making a real difference for children in need.
September 13th (4-6 PM): Local 919 Anniversary Tasting
We’re excited to join the celebration for Local 919 Craft Beer and Fine Wine’s 3rd anniversary with a special tasting event! We will be on site pouring a selection of our craft beers alongside other local favorites. This event is the perfect opportunity to explore new flavors, connect with the community, and raise a glass to Local 919’s milestone. Come enjoy great beer, good company, and a day dedicated to celebrating the best of our local craft scene.
September 15th-20th: Negroni Week at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
It’s time to celebrate a true classic! Negroni Week is here, and we’re pouring expertly crafted Negronis all week long. Stop by to enjoy the perfect balance of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth in one of the world’s most iconic cocktails. Whether you’re a longtime Negroni fan or trying one for the first time, it’s the perfect excuse to savor a beautifully bitter and refreshing cocktail in our welcoming speakeasy.
September 17th (6–8 PM): Five Flowers Hemp-Infused Sparkling Beverage Sampling
We like to keep things fresh behind the bar, and this month we’re teaming up with Five Flowers for a special tasting night. You’ll be able to sample their hemp-infused sparkling beverages—perfect for winding down after a long day or kicking off an easygoing evening. Come by, settle in, and enjoy something a little different with us.
September 19th (5-8 PM): 919 Emerging Professionals Event
We’re proud to host the 919 Emerging Professionals Event, an evening that blends community, networking, and purpose—all in support of post-secondary education for single moms through Seasons Village. This event is designed for young professionals, community leaders, and anyone passionate about making a difference. Guests can enjoy live music, giant games, local cuisine, and plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded people—all while supporting a mission that truly matters.
General admission is just a $1 donation or more, while VIP admission ($35 or more) includes exclusive perks like a signature Seasons Village glass, one drink ticket, and preferred registration and seating. Join us for a night of fun, connection, and giving back, and help support a cause that inspires hope, advances lives, and strengthens families.
September 20th (7-9 PM): Miss Candice at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Step into a night of elegance and timeless music as the captivating jazz chanteuse and cabaret performer Miss Candice takes the stage at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird. Blending the sultry charm of 1920s–1960s jazz with show-stopping cabaret flair, Miss Candice delivers a performance that’s as visually stunning as it is musically brilliant. Whether you’re a devoted jazz lover or simply seeking a sophisticated evening out, this intimate performance promises style, romance, and a touch of nostalgia.
September 22nd-27th: Bee’s Knees Week at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Get ready to raise a glass—Bee’s Knees Week is here! From September 22–27, we’ll be serving our signature Bee’s Knees cocktail all week long for just $10. Crafted with gin, honey syrup, and fresh lemon, it’s a sweet, zesty crowd favorite. Come sip, savor, and celebrate a week dedicated to one of our most beloved drinks.
September 26th (5-8 PM): Tap Takeover at Growler Grlz
We’re heading to Durham for a Tap Takeover at Growler Grlz, and we can’t wait to share an evening of great beer, community, and conversation. We’ll be pouring four of our favorite brews, and while the full lineup is still being finalized, you can count on a few Blackbird classics to make an appearance. Come grab a pint (or two), meet fellow craft beer lovers, and enjoy a night dedicated to flavorful beers and good company.
October 4th (12-11 PM): Oktoberfest
Raise your steins and join us for Oktoberfest in the Biergarten! We’re celebrating this classic festival with a full day of music, food, and fun for the whole family. Enjoy live entertainment from the Adam Lee Decker Band, savor hearty bites from Fishin Shrimp, and test your strength in our Stein Holding Contest for ultimate bragging rights. Don’t miss Stick and Poke Beers, a fun tradition where a hot poker caramelizes the malt sugars in the beer, creating a sweet, frothy foam that enhances every sip.
There’s fun for everyone, from a Kids Corner and Pretzel Necklace Station to face painting with Sarah from 2–4PM and Caricatures by Cartoon Jordan from 6–8 PM. Bring your friends, family, and festive spirit for a day full of games, craft activities, music, and, of course, delicious German-style beers.
On-Site at Phillips Farms This Fall
There’s nothing quite like crisp autumn days at Phillips Farms of Cary filled with corn mazes, sunflower fields, and seasonal adventures—and now you can enjoy it all with a Blackbird craft beer in hand. We’re excited to be on-site again this year, with ice-cold draft beer flowing and cans ready to grab so you can take a 4- or 6-pack to-go. Come find us at the Blackbird Brewery Beer Shed all season long.
Our Fall Schedule
From September 13th to November 8th, we’ll be pouring Thursday – Sunday at the Blackbird Brewery Beer Shed—located behind the paywall of the fun park. Stop by to grab a beer and then dive into all the seasonal activities Phillips Farms has to offer. Whether you’re taking on the seven-acre corn maze, soaking in the beauty of the sunflower field, or braving the Haunted Farm, we’ll be here to fuel your fall adventures.
If you’re looking for a spookier experience, Haunted Farm Adventures runs from September 19th through November 8th—and there’s no better way to enjoy a spooky night than with your favorite Blackbird brew in hand.
September 13th (10 AM–6 PM): The Second Annual Bearly A Concert Family Fun Day
Grand opening weekend kicks off with the Bearly A Concert Family Fun Day! Expect a day packed with live music and fun for the whole family including farm adventures, animal encounters, interactive drumming, foam parties, food trucks, a kid-friendly DJ, and even Cary’s largest water fight! Tickets are $25 and sales support mental health initiatives across the Triangle, making it a fun day with purpose.
September Special Weekend Events
- September 13th-14th: Grand Opening Weekend
- September 20th: Haunted Media Day
- September 20th–21st: Grandparents Weekend. Grandparents enter free with the purchase of a general admission ticket!
- September 27th–28th: Tractor Days
Fall at Phillips Farms is better with a craft beer in hand—whether you’re sipping a pint on-site or grabbing a four- or six-pack to take home, we can’t wait to see you at the farm!
Returning Favorites
September 3rd (6-9 PM): Book Club at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Bookworms, this one’s for you. Our monthly Book Club at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird isn’t your typical gathering—no reading lists, no deadlines, no pressure. Just bring the book you’re into right now, grab a cocktail, and make yourself comfortable. You can read solo at the bar, join a table of fellow readers, or strike up a conversation—it’s completely up to you. As a special touch, each guest receives a collectible bookmark at their first visit. Bring it back the following month to unlock our secret Book Club menu—a rotating selection of cocktails designed just for our readers.
September 10th (6-8 PM): Crokinole
Crokinole night is all about fun, friendly competition, and community. Every second Wednesday, we break out the Crokinole boards for an evening that combines strategy, laughter, and a little bit of skill. Crokinole is a tabletop game that blends the strategy of curling with the finesse of shuffleboard. It is easy to learn, fun to play, and just as entertaining to watch. Whether you are a seasoned player or brand new to the game, you will find a welcoming crowd, plenty of tips to pick up, and a chance to test your skills. Grab a pint, flick your discs, and enjoy a night of good company and lighthearted rivalries.
September 11th (5-11 PM): Vinyl Night at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
There’s nothing like the sound of vinyl spinning to set the mood. Every second Thursday, Bird’s Nest at Blackbird comes alive with Vinyl Night—an evening of music, cocktails, and community. Bring your favorite records to share, or just sit back and enjoy the mix as the needle drops. Pair the rich analog sound with one of our cocktails, soak in the vibe, and connect with other music lovers who appreciate the classics, the deep cuts, and everything in between.
September 13th (4:30-7:30 PM): Farmers Market Hosted by The Family Bee’s-ness LLC
The weekend is for slowing down—and our monthly Farmers Market is the perfect excuse. Hosted by The Family Bee’s-ness LLC, the market brings local produce, handmade goods, and unique finds right to our beer garden. Sip a beer while you browse, meet the makers behind the tables, and take home something fresh, local, and one-of-a-kind. It’s a community tradition we’re proud to share with you.
Weekday Happenings
Mondays: Hammered Trivia (7-9 PM)
Tuesdays: Music Bingo (7-9 PM)
Wednesdays: Wine Flight Wednesday w/ $20 wine flights and Run Club (6-8 PM)
Thursdays: Enjoy live music every Thursday (6-9 PM)
Live Music Lineup
Thursday, September 4th (6-9 PM): Grant Paxton
Thursday, September 11th (6-9 PM): Ryan Mullaney
Friday, September 12th (6-9 PM): DJ Night with DJ Al Ski Love
Saturday, September 13th (7-9 PM): Raleigh Rishi
Sunday, September 14th (3-6 PM): Dan Davis Jazz Group
Thursday, September 18th (6-9 PM): Chick & Danger
Saturday, September 20th (7-9 PM): Miss Candice at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Sunday, September 21 (3-6 PM): Open Mic with Adam Lee Decker
September 25th (TBD): Information Coming Soon
October 4th (4-7 PM): Adam Lee Decker Band
Cheers to the Season
Fall vibes are in the air, and we are ready to celebrate all the flavors, fun, and community that September brings. From fresh seasonal beer releases to festivals, games, and live music, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re catching up with friends in the beer garden, discovering a new favorite brew, or joining us for one of our signature events, every visit is an opportunity to make memories and connect with the people around you.
So pull up a chair, grab a pint, and savor the season with us. It’s not just about the beer—it’s about good company, great experiences, and the little moments that make each sip worth celebrating. September is full of them, and we can’t wait to share them with you.
