Image courtesy of National Aviary.

National Aviary
Friday, July 1
6:30 — 10 p.m.

We all know about the birds and the bees, but this weekend it’s time to make way for the birds and the beers. Drink to the dog days, get inspired for a summer of bird watching, and help support Pittsburgh’s newest independent nanobrewery during a festive celebration of all things feathered, brewed and distilled.

Courtesy War Streets Brewery.
Courtesy War Streets Brewery.

Hosted by the War Streets Brewery—which is busy setting up its operations in a historic firehouse located at 1416 Arch Street in the Central Northside (read NEXTpittsburgh‘s coverage here)—The Birds & The Beers bash will pair the National Aviary‘s exceptional exhibitions of winged wonders with a full slate of locally crafted brews and spirits.

Pittsburgh’s historic Northside is experiencing a rebirth in terms of beer and spirits production, and this summery happening will showcase the movement with libations from the War Streets Brewery, along with neighbors the Penn Brewery, Grist House and Wigle Whiskey. Joining these Northside brewmasters on the thirst-quenching menu will be Zelionople-based ShuBrew and Homestead’s Voodoo Brewery.

All proceeds from Friday’s event will help support renovations to the War Streets Brewery’s facility. Owners Jake Bier and Zach Ingoldsby hope to open the brewery by the end of the summer.

War Streets Brewery. Photo by Brian Conway.
War Streets Brewery. Photo by Brian Conway.

Providing the night’s dance-worthy entertainment will be Pittsburgh-based four-piece band, The Groove Academy, whose repertoire spans soul, funk and pop, including classic covers by the likes of Stevie Wonder, Steely Dan, Tower of Power, and Marvin Gaye.

Throughout the night, avian aficionados will also be treated to two bird encounters, and appetizer, main course and dessert stations crafted by Atria’s. At 8 p.m. a resident penguin will help to create a one-of-a-kind painting which will be auctioned off during the event. Party-goers will have access to the Aviary’s indoor and outdoor bird exhibits, and will receive a souvenir War Streets Brewery pint glass to use at the event and take home.

Buy tickets.

Looking for more events? Read our 10 Pittsburgh events not to miss in July, Everything you need to know about Pittsburgh concerts in July, and our Top 10 things for families to do in July in Pittsburgh feature articles.

Jennifer has worked at the Mattress Factory, Brooklyn Museum of Art and SLB Radio Productions. She is co-author of the award-winning book, "Pittsburgh Signs Project: 250 Signs of Western Pennsylvania." For 15-plus years, she was co-coordinator and marketing director with Handmade Arcade, Pittsburgh's first and largest independent craft fair. She makes music as The Garment District and is a founding member of Brooklyn's The Ladybug Transistor.