As the summer fades and the evenings draw in, September still offers plenty of reasons for pubs and bars to celebrate. With a mix of foodie favourites and community-spirited days, the month’s national dates provide easy hooks for themed menus, promotions, and events that can bring customers through the door.
Things kick off on 5 September with National Cheese Pizza Day, a simple but effective way to pull in midweek trade. A pizza special paired with a flight of local ales or a sparkling spritz can turn an ordinary night into something sharable and social. For pubs without pizza ovens, partnering with a local supplier or food truck could be a low-effort, high-reward option.
The same week also includes the International Day of Charity on 5 September and Emergency Services Day on 9 September, both of which tap into the community role that pubs are so well placed to play. Whether it’s running a fundraising quiz, donating a percentage of sales to a local cause, or simply offering a “thank you” discount for local responders, these dates provide a chance to show heart and build stronger connections with regulars.
Later in the month, 25 September offers a foodie double act with both National Quesadilla Day and National Lobster Day. For pubs with a creative kitchen, it’s the perfect opportunity to showcase limited-time dishes or themed specials. Think sharing platters of Mexican street-food favourites, or a “lobster and lager” pairing deal for something a little more indulgent. These one-off menus can create excitement and encourage customers to try something new.
As September winds down, National Good Neighbor Day on 28 September is an easy fit for pubs looking to celebrate their role at the heart of the community. Shared platters, neighbour loyalty cards, or even an open-mic night showcasing local talent can turn the pub into a true meeting place. Just a day later, on 29 September, National Coffee Day is a gift to any bar team with a shaker. Espresso martinis, coffee stouts, or dessert-and-coffee pairings are simple ways to give a Monday night some spark and keep customers lingering longer.
For licensees, the appeal of these dates is that they’re simple to activate. Pizza, quesadillas, lobster, and coffee are natural fits for food and drink menus, while charity and community-based days allow pubs to showcase the role they play beyond pouring pints. With a bit of planning, September’s national days can add flavour to the calendar and help build your pub’s reputation as the place to gather, celebrate, and connect.