There’s a special kind of energy in the taproom when winter rolls in—warm lights, laughter spilling over from the bar, and the quiet joy of slowing down for the season. December at Blackbird Brewery is packed with ways to soak in that festive spirit. From book pop-ups to live music and creative workshops, every week brings a reason to linger, connect, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the season.
Christmas Cocktails
There’s something extra magical about the holidays when a festive cocktail is in hand. Starting December 8th, Bird’s Nest at Blackbird is shaking up the season with a lineup of holiday-inspired Christmas cocktails. Settle into the cozy glow of our cocktail lounge, sip something beautifully crafted, and soak in the warm, spirited energy that only December brings.
Beer Releases
Cacao Is My Safe Word — Milk Stout
Milk stout lovers, this one’s for you. Dosed with home-roasted cacao nibs, this beer is all about fresh-baked brownie vibes. Ian personally sourced cacao beans, roasted them at home, cooled, and crushed them to get that perfect chocolatey aroma and semi-sweet, creamy flavor. Full-bodied and indulgent, it’s a chocolate lover’s dream. (Contains lactose.)
Jack It Up To Jesus — Spiced Christmas Ale
Our spiced Christmas ale is here to bring the holiday cheer. Featuring two types of cinnamon—cassia bark and Saigon—along with fresh ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and clove, this beer is like your favorite holiday spice box in liquid form. Warm, fragrant, and full of festive character.
Blackbird Kölsch
Crisp, light, and dangerously drinkable, our Kölsch hits like a lager but shows off aromas you won’t find anywhere else: stone fruit, salt crackers, and a subtle chalkiness. Brewed with a special selection of malts, hops, and a unique yeast strain, then cold-conditioned for three weeks, it’s a classic German style with a Blackbird twist.
Big Trees — Celebration Style Ale
Deke’s staff beer has found its way back to us, and we couldn’t resist. This West Coast-style red IPA is hopped with whole-cone Cascade, giving it fresh pine notes and old-school hoppy bitterness. Malt-driven yet bright, it’s the perfect beer to sip while dreaming of Christmas trees.
Mexican Style Vienna Lager
Here’s a twist on a classic: 30% of this lager is brewed with white corn tortilla flour, giving it subtle, toasty corn flavor reminiscent of your favorite taco shell. Light, crisp, and totally approachable—perfect for pairing with holiday snacks or taco night.
Double-Decocted Czech Pilsner
A collaboration with our friends at CapeSide Brewery, this Czech-style pilsner pays homage to traditional brewing. Brewed with Epiphany Craft Malt’s Century Malt and a double-decoction mash, it offers light, crisp, and rustic flavors, while Saaz and Kazbek hops bring delicate herbal and floral notes. A true celebration of craft and technique.
Where I Belong — West Coast IPA
One of our first West Coast IPAs and a fan favorite, this IPA sticks to the classic “holy trinity” of Citra, Mosaic, and Simcoe hops. Bone dry, balanced, and bursting with clean, clear hop juice, it’s the perfect beer to remind you that Blackbird is a home away from home—and this IPA is where it all began.
Upcoming Events
Saturday, December 6th (12–4 PM): Spicy Pages Pop Up
The Spicy Pages Bookshop is popping up, filling the taproom with hand-picked reads and the welcoming energy book lovers naturally bring with them. It’s a midweek moment made for slowing down: browsing titles, connecting with fellow readers, and enjoying the simple pleasure of good books and great drinks.
Tuesday, December 9th (7–9 PM): An Agave Experience at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Bird’s Nest at Blackbird is taking on a flavorful detour south for Agave Night, led by Gabe Weeks from Proximo Spirits. You’ll enjoy a free guided tasting of agave-forward spirits, featuring 1800 Silver, 1800 Reposado, Jose Cuervo Tradicional Plata, Jose Cuervo Tradicional Reposado, and Maestro Dobel Cristalino. Paired with our margarita special, festive margarita flights, and complimentary chips and salsa, it’s the perfect Tuesday night hang.
Friday, December 12th (5–7 PM): Santa and Mrs. Claus Visit Blackbird!
Santa and Mrs. Claus are stopping by the taproom for festive photos and holiday cheer! Kids can sip on hot chocolate while posing for a magical photo at Santa’s photo station, generously sponsored by Fab Homes. Bring the whole family and create memories to treasure this holiday season!
Friday, December 12th (6–9 PM): Beer & Carols
During the holidays, Beer & Carols is one of our favorite nights of the season! On December 12, The Grateful Sled band returns to fill the lounge with classic holiday melodies from 6–9 PM, turning the space into a warm, glowing sing-along. It’s an evening built for community, winter spirit, and holiday joy.
Saturday, December 13th (5 PM–12 AM): National Lampoon’s Ugly Sweater Party at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Bird’s Nest at Blackbird is turning up the holiday fun with our National Lampoon’s Ugly Sweater Party. Guests are encouraged to show off their most outrageous sweaters or go full Griswold with themed outfits as we celebrate the season with plenty of laughter and festive energy. We’ll have fun drink specials flowing all evening and will award a $25 gift card to the guest sporting the ugliest sweater. It’s a great way to embrace the chaos of the holidays—great drinks, great people, and sweaters that are so bad… they’re perfect.
Friday, December 19th (5–9 PM): Raleigh Rub Co. Butts and Beers Pop-Up
Raleigh Rub Co. is taking over our taproom with bold flavors, slow-cooked perfection, and all the smoky goodness you’d expect from true barbecue masters. Grab a plate, pair it with your favorite brew, and turn your evening into a delicious celebration. Click here to view the full menu!
Saturday, December 20th (7–9 PM): Cabaret Christmas Special with Miss Candice at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Celebrate the season with a special Christmas performance by Miss Candice! She’s bringing the sultry charm of 1920s–1960s jazz and show tunes to life, with a visual flair that channels classic cabaret. Grab a craft cocktail, soak in the cozy, vintage vibes, and let Miss Candice sweep you away for a festive night full of music, style, and holiday cheer. Click here to book a table!
Sunday, December 21st (1–3 PM): Hand the Light Candle Making Class
Get into the holiday spirit with a cozy holiday candle workshop hosted by Hand.The.Light! Spend a festive afternoon crafting your own botanical-inspired soy candles—perfect for brightening your home or gifting to someone special. You’ll hand-pour your candles, choose seasonal scent blends, and decorate with dried botanicals while sipping local craft beer and enjoying great company. Tickets include all materials for two candles, step-by-step guidance from our team, and the option to upgrade to a triple-wick wooden candle bowl. Spots are limited, so grab your ticket and celebrate the season with us!
Thursday, January 1st (1–5 PM): Chili Cook Off
Get ready to kick off the new year with some heat! Our 3rd Annual Chili Cook Off returns on January 1st, and we’re inviting the community to taste, vote, and enjoy an afternoon full of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chili master or just here for the samples, this friendly competition is the perfect way to warm up your New Year’s Day. Commissioner Sliwinski will be joining us as a guest judge, with two more judges to be announced soon. Stay tuned, bring your appetite, and join us for a fun, festive start to 2025!
Returning Favorites
Wednesday, December 3rd (5–10 PM): Book Club at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Book lovers, this one’s for you. Our monthly Book Club at the Bird’s Nest is intentionally simple—no assigned reading, no deadlines, no pressure. Just bring whatever book you’re currently enjoying, order a cocktail, and settle into the space however you’d like. Read quietly at the bar, join a table of fellow bookworms, or spark a conversation with someone new. First-time guests receive a collectible bookmark, and if you bring it back next month, we’ll unlock our secret Book Club Menu: a rotating lineup of cocktails crafted just for readers.
Wednesday, December 10th (6–8 PM): Crokinole Night
Every second Wednesday, the taproom fills with friendly competition at Crokinole Night. This classic tabletop game—part shuffleboard, part curling—is quick to learn and endlessly fun to play. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or giving it a try for the first time, you’ll find a welcoming crowd, helpful tips, and plenty of laughs. Grab a pint, line up your shot, and join us for an evening of lighthearted rivalry and great company.
Saturday, December 13th (4:30–7:30 PM): Farmers Market Hosted by The Family Bee’s-ness LLC
Slow down for a moment and enjoy our monthly Farmers Market, hosted by The Family Bee’s-ness LLC. Wander through the beer garden with a beer in hand, explore local produce and handmade goods, and meet the makers who bring these creations to life. It’s a simple, feel-good afternoon built around community, creativity, and discovering something new.
Every Thursday (5–10 PM): Vinyl Night at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Thursday evenings belong to the warm, nostalgic crackle of Vinyl Night at the Bird’s Nest. Bring a record to share or simply relax into the curated sounds as the needle drops. Pair the music with a signature cocktail and connect with fellow vinyl lovers who appreciate everything from timeless favorites to deep cuts. It’s an easygoing night where community, conversation, and analog sound come together in perfect harmony.
Special Hours
Monday, December 22nd: 12–10 PM
Tuesday, December 23rd: 12–10 PM
Wednesday, December 24th (Christmas Eve): 12–6 PM
Thursday, December 25th (Christmas Day): 4–9 PM
Friday, December 26th: 12–11 PM
Wednesday, December 31st (New Years Eve): 12–6 PM
Live Music Lineup
Thursday, December 4th (6–9 PM): Multiples
Saturday, December 6th (6–9 PM): JT Parrothead
Thursday, December 11th (6–9 PM): One Block Over
Sunday, December 14th (3–6 PM): Tom Neuhauser
Thursday, December 18th (6–9 PM): Sterling Scott
Saturday, December 20th (3–6 PM): Duopoly
Saturday, December 27th (4–7 PM): Tony Jonez
Cheers to Holiday Joy
With the glow of twinkling lights, classic holiday carols, and the laughter of friends, the taproom is coming alive with holiday spirit this December! Pop in for a photo with Santa, compete in our ugly sweater competition, or sing along to some festive carols. Each visit is a little celebration, and this month, we can’t wait to share every cozy, joyful moment with you.
