We’re in the final stretch of summer, and it’s time to wring out every last drop of sunshine and shenanigans. Whether you’re here to kick back with a cold pint, dance along to live tunes, or catch up with friends in the Taproom, August is packed with opportunities to close out the season in style.
And speaking of style, don’t miss our one-of-a-kind Tuxedo at a Pool Party Pool Party on August 23rd. It’ll be a sun-soaked day filled with kiddie pools, slip & slides, water balloons, and water guns. This one’s for the grown-ups—please bring a valid 21+ ID. Dress however you like (stylish swimwear and tuxedos are definitely encouraged!), enjoy live sets from Dee Jay Jamie and Peak City Band, and fuel up with tasty eats from Butcher’s Market.
It’s the perfect way to cool off, let loose, and celebrate summer’s final stretch—so let’s raise a glass to sunny days, great friends, and all the good times still to come!
Beer Releases
The Rhine — Amber Ale / Altbier
This brew is named after the river running through Düsseldorf, Germany—the birthplace of Altbier. Brewed with generous Munich malt, a hint of crystal malt, noble German hops, and fermented cool with neutral ale yeast. This malty amber beer is smooth, balanced, and delightfully straightforward.
HallucinoHawk — Hazy IPA
Some hops are so balanced in aroma and flavor, they form the backbone of any great IPA. Riwaka, Citra, and Mosaic have been our go to hops—and for this brew, we brought all three together. The result? A kaleidoscope of Blackbird IPAs past and present. It’s an evolution. A reemergence. A new legend rising from the haze: HallucinoHawk.
Unique Specimen — Dortmunder Gold Lager
We collaborated with The Glass Jug Beer Lab in Durham to showcase our decoction mash system—a historic brewing technique rarely used by American breweries today (though we’re proud to be among the few who do). In a decoction mash, a portion of the grain mash is removed, boiled, and then returned to the main mash to raise the overall temperature. This carefully controlled process creates a series of enzymatic steps that enhance malt flavor, complexity, and head retention.
For this collab, we chose a German Dortmunder as the base—a lager with a special water profile that cuts sweetness and boosts drinkability in higher gravity beers, much like decoction mashing. It’s a technical, science-driven lager that blends historic techniques with modern brewing.
Road Tripel — Belgian-Style Tripel
Raleigh’s CARBOY Homebrew Club won the 2025 Triangle Cup and when given the choice of a brewery to make a collaboration beer with, they picked us! The crew came over, grilled hot dogs and burgers, cleaned kegs, and brewed a bold Belgian Tripel. We went all out with a true-to-style Belgian mash, malts, candi syrup, yeast, and hopped with Mittelfrüh and Kazbek.
Luna Haze — Hazy IPA
Thank you to everyone who participated in our fundraiser photo contest— we’re thrilled to share that we raised $1,825 for Veterinarians Without Borders, an organization dedicated to improving global community health through animal care. Our local branch’s winner was Luna, an adorable pup who inspired a bright, crisp, and refreshing Hazy IPA. This brew features Citra hops and the fresh 2025 crop of New Zealand Pacifica, which we love for its orange and tropical flavors.
Danky Legg — West Coast IPA
We recently launched a new West Coast IPA that is hopped with Idaho #7, Cashmere, and Citra. More details coming soon!
(Name Coming Soon) — Hazy IPA
We have a new Hazy IPA still in the works that is hopped with Citra, Simcoe, and Motueka. Stay tuned to learn more about this new brew—and to find out the name!
Fan-Favorite Re-Releases
We’re excited to bring back several fan-favorite brews this August, including Yellow Submarine — Hazy IPA, Habu — Rice Lager, Blackbird Kölsch, and Girl You Know Wit’s True — Belgian Witbier. We’re also brewing new variations of other favorites, such as the S.S. Minnow — Hazy IPA featuring Elani hops and a West Coast IPA brewed with Motueka and Galaxy hop extract. Check out our beer page or live inventory for all the details.
One we’re especially thrilled to re-release is Sunday Brunch — Belgian Dubbel, which earned us a Gold medal at the 2023 U.S. Open Beer Championship the last time we brewed it. This classic Trappist-style amber ale is crafted with Belgian yeast and specialty malts. We use a multi-step mash process to develop a unique range of sugars that the yeast transforms into something truly special. Expect light esters balanced with bready, biscuity malts, and a rich finish layered with notes of dark fruit and molasses from dark crystal malts and candi syrup.
Upcoming Special Events
July 29th-August 19th: 18th Annual Growler Beach Volleyball Tournament
We’re proud to sponsor the opening week of the Annual Growler Beach Volleyball Tournament—a volunteer-powered tradition that brings the North Raleigh community together to support childhood cancer research. Since its grassroots beginnings 18 years ago, the Growler has raised over $1 million for the St. Baldrick’s Foundation, making it one of the largest fundraisers of its kind on the East Coast.
August 3rd (2-6 PM): The Blood Connection Blood Drive
Beer tastes even better when it’s for a good cause—that’s why we are teaming up with The Blood Connection to host a blood drive! Each donor will receive $40 in rewards and a $5 Blackbird gift card. Just one donation can save up to three lives! Donors must be at least 16 years old (those 16 or 17 will need a permission slip, available on-site), weigh a minimum of 110 pounds, have valid ID, and be in generally good health. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are encouraged.
Help us reach our goal of 18 units—sign up today!
August 5th (6:30-8:30 PM): Pink Boots Society Meet-Up
Connect with fellow women and non-binary professionals in the fermented and alcoholic beverage industry for an evening of community, conversation, and craft beer. Whether you’re brewing, bartending, designing, writing, or anything in between, our Pink Boots Society Meet-Up is a chance to network, share knowledge, and support one another in advancing our industry. Let’s raise a glass to growth, education, and empowerment—see you there!
August 16th: Hops for Hope Cornhole Tournament
Join us for a fun-filled day of friendly competition, cold beer, and community spirit—all while supporting an amazing cause! We’re teaming up with Plexus Capital to host a Cornhole Tournament benefiting Hops for Hope, and we’d love to see you there.
Here’s what’s in store:
- Cornhole Tournament–$30 per team, with space for 24 teams total. Grab a partner, sign up to reserve your spot, and get ready to toss some bags!
- Live Music–We’re excited to welcome Raleigh Assassins to the stage from 2–5 PM.
- Smashburger Pop-Up–Come hungry! Smashburgers will be served starting at 2 PM until they’re gone.
- Silent Auction–Bid on some awesome items to support the cause even further. Some of the items include:
- 2 VIP tickets to the Band Together show with Gov’t Mule and Edwin McCain on 10/18. Tickets include all food and drink. $300 value for the pair.
- 2 VIP tickets to 13th annual Bull City Food & Beer Experience at DPAC on March 29th 2026. $310 value for pair.
Whether you’re in it to win or just there for the fun, this is a great chance to connect with friends, enjoy some cold beer, and give back to the community.
August 16th: National Rum Day at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Join us in celebrating one of the world’s most legendary spirits—rum! From aged and spiced to light and tropical, rum has been at the heart of good times since the 1600s. First distilled from molasses in the West Indies, it quickly became the drink of choice for sailors, pirates, and even earned a spot in the Royal Navy’s daily rations for over 300 years. We’re honoring this timeless spirit with a lineup of signature rum-inspired cocktails crafted just for the occasion.
August 17th (12-3 PM): Cause for Paws Adoption Event
Looking for your new best friend? Come grab a pint and meet some sweet, adoptable pets at this heartwarming event in partnership with Cause for Paws, a local non-profit committed to rescuing, nurturing, and rehoming animals in need across our community. Whether you’re ready to adopt or just want some cuddles with your beer, this is the perfect way to support a meaningful mission—and maybe meet your next furry family member.
August 21st (7 PM): Comedy Night at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird–A Hops for Hope Fundraiser
Looking for a night of non-stop laughs for a great cause? Mark your calendar for Comedy Night, hosted by Plexus Capital and benefiting Hops for Hope!
This one-of-a-kind evening will feature 6 or 7 quick-hit sets from a stellar lineup of comedians ready to bring the house down. Entry is just $10 at the door, and here’s the best part: 100% of proceeds go directly to funding flights for children who need access to life-saving medical care. The comedian lineup will be announced soon, so stay tuned—we promise you won’t want to miss it.
August 23rd (12-11 PM): Tuxedo at a Pool Party Pool Party
We’re turning up the heat—and the fun—for our favorite end-of-summer bash!
Tuxedo at a Pool Party Pool Party is back and bolder than ever with a full day of adults-only summer chaos: think kiddie pools, slip & slides, water balloons, and water guns, all ready for maximum splash potential. We’re celebrating the return of our fan-favorite Tuxedo at a Pool Party — German Pilsner with a tribute to fun, flavor, and formalwear. This bash is strictly for the 21+ crowd—please bring your ID along with your best style game. Whether it’s a tuxedo shirt or your most fabulous poolside getup, anything goes.
The party kicks off with Dee Jay Jamie spinning from 2–5 PM, followed by Peak City Band rocking the evening from 7–10 PM. Fuel up with delicious eats from Butcher’s Market, available from 1–8 PM. Click here to view the full menu.
August 28th: National Red Wine Day at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
There’s no better way to welcome the cozy vibes of fall than with a glass of rich, velvety red. Founded in 2014, National Red Wine Day is all about honoring the deep flavors, rich history, and global love for red wine. Join us to celebrate—we’ll be pouring a specially curated wine list featuring bold blends, smooth sips, and a few hidden gems.
August 29th (6-9 PM): Karaoke Night–A Hops for Hope Fundraiser
Sing your heart out for a great cause! Join us for Karaoke Night, hosted by Lexie, to benefit Hops for Hope—an organization that brings compassion, community, and craft beer together to provide life-saving flights for children in need of essential medical care. It’s just $2 per song, with all proceeds going directly to the cause. Whether you’re a karaoke pro or a first-time performer, every note supports a mission that truly matters.
August 30th: National Mai Tai Day at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Bright, bold, and bursting with island flavor, the Mai Tai has been a tropical favorite since 1944. First crafted by tiki legend Trader Vic in his Oakland restaurant, the original recipe mixed aged Jamaican rum, lime, orange curaçao, rock candy syrup, and orgeat—served over shaved ice with lime and mint. Come celebrate with us and try our modern twist on the classic Mai Tai—a refreshing take that will transport you straight to island time.
Returning Favorites
August 6th (6-9 PM): Book Club at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
We’re switching up the format of our Silent Book Club—starting with the silent part! Bring your favorite book, sip on a handcrafted cocktail, and enjoy a cozy evening of reading and conversation with fellow book lovers. Whether you prefer quiet time at the bar or chatting with a group at a table, this night is all about relaxing your way. Every guest will receive a bookmark and if you bring it back next month, you’ll unlock access to our Secret Book Club menu at the bar. Held the first Wednesday of each month, this is the perfect midweek ritual for slowing down and connecting with like-minded readers.
August 9th (4:30-7:30 PM): Farmers Market Hosted by The Family Bee’s-ness LLC
Enjoy craft beer while supporting local artisans and farmers! Our monthly outdoor Farmers Market event with The Family Bee’s-ness LLC is a great chance to explore a fantastic variety of local produce and unique handmade goods.
August 13th (6:30-8:30 PM): Crokinole
Whether you’re a brand new player or already a pro, everyone is welcome at Crokinole Night! Stop by the taproom on the second Wednesday of each month to enjoy this quick-paced game that mixes the strategy of curling with the finesse of shuffleboard. Whether you’re playing or just watching, it’s a great time all around.
August 14th (3-10 PM): Vinyl Night at Bird’s Nest at Blackbird
Spin your favorite vinyl and unwind with us! Every second Thursday of each month, bring your records to Bird’s Nest at Blackbird for an evening of rich analog sound, craft cocktails, and good company. It’s all about music, craft cocktails, and a great community.
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, August 7th (6-9 PM): Just Us
Sunday, August 10th (3-6 PM): Jazz with Josh Colton
Thursday, August 14th (6-9 PM): Hot Bird
Saturday, August 16th (2-5 PM): Raleigh Assassins
Sunday, August 17th (3-6 PM): Open Mic with Adam Lee Decker
Thursday, August 21st (6-9 PM): John Ford
Saturday, August 23rd (2-5 PM): Dee Jay Jamie
Saturday, August 23rd (7-10 PM): Peak City Band
Thursday, August 28th (6-9 PM): Grace Lucia Lee
Savor the Last Sips of Summer!
No matter how you like to celebrate summer—whether it’s with a cold beer in hand, cheering on local musicians, or making memories at one of our community events—there’s something waiting for you at Blackbird Brewery this August.
As we look ahead to cooler temps and cozier pours, we’re soaking up every last summer hour with great brews, good people, and unforgettable fun. See you soon in the taproom!
