Press Release

DURHAM, N.C., July 16, 2025 The JB Duke Hotel, a AAA Four Diamond hotel located on Duke University's campus, is pleased to announce the highly anticipated return of its Guest Bartender Series - a summer showcase of inventive cocktails, local talent and community connection. Now in its third year, the series runs from August 21 through September 11, inviting guests and locals alike to enjoy distinctive cocktails crafted by some of the region's top mixologists.

Each Thursday, acclaimed bartenders from Durham mainstays will bring their creative visions to the Lobby Lounge. The lineup includes James Beard-recognized bars like The Bar Beej (a 2025 semifinalist) and Alley Twenty Six (a 2022 finalist for Outstanding Bar Program), alongside Conniption Bar & Lounge and Liberty & Plenty. Together, they will offer a curated lineup of inventive, flavor-forward cocktails that reflect the creativity and craftsmanship of Durham's dynamic beverage scene.

Each bartender's specialty beverages will be available on the Lobby Lounge menu the week following their visit, and the JB Duke Hotel will donate 10% of proceeds from the limited-edition menu to each bartender's local nonprofit of choice.

2025 Guest Bartender Series schedule:

• Thursday, August 21: Connor McKenzie, Conniption Bar & Lounge
  Nonprofit partner: The Animal Protection Society of Durham, dedicated to strengthening bonds between people and animals through compassionate care and community programs
• Thursday, August 28: Amy Waas, The Bar Beej (2025 James Beard Award Semifinalist)
  Nonprofit partner: NAMI Durham, a grassroots organization offering advocacy, education and support for individuals and families affected by mental illness
• Thursday, September 4: Shannon Healy, Alley Twenty Six
  Nonprofit partner: The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at Club Boulevard Elementary, supporting students and educators through event organization and fundraising
• Thursday, September 11: Will McDonald, Liberty & Plenty Distillery
  Nonprofit partner: Wake Tech Foundation, which cultivates resources and funding to advance student success at Wake Technical Community College

“The Lobby Lounge is a favorite destination for cocktail enthusiasts in Durham, known for its warm, welcoming and sophisticated atmosphere,” said Don Ball, general manager at the JB Duke Hotel. “Our signature guest bartender series invites the community to experience the space through a new lens, offering guests the chance to savor unique, artfully mixed cocktails. At the same time, it provides a vibrant canvas for some of the area's finest mixologists to express their creativity and support meaningful causes that are close to home."

The Lobby Lounge sets the stage for a relaxed and refined dining experience, offering a thoughtfully curated menu of inventive small plates and elegant entrées. With a sleek peninsula bar, stylish décor and inviting seating nooks, it's an ideal setting for cozy conversations or relaxed gatherings with friends.

Guests can enjoy the festivities beginning at 5 p.m. each Thursday. The series is open to the public, with complimentary entry; cocktails are available for purchase. Seating is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, visit the Community Events page on the JB Duke Hotel website and follow JB Duke on Instagram at @jbdukehotel.