Rivers of Steel

Hot Metal Happy Hour: Forged Bottle Openers
2026-08-15 13:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | Carrie Blast Furnaces, 801 Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA, 15218, United States
Forge your own bottle opener at the Carrie Blast Furnaces!

Learn the basics of blacksmithing in this three hour workshop.
Join us for a Hot Metal Happy Hour at the Carrie Blast Furnaces.
This intermediate-level, hands-on workshop is an excellent way to continue exploring the forging process. Work with hot steel to create your own custom bottle opener! In the process, you’ll hone blacksmithing techniques, including slitting, drifting, punching, bending, and more. At the end of the session, put your handiwork to the test when you crack open a bottled beverage to toast your accomplishment! Some prior experience with forging is recommended.
These sessions are led by Rivers of Steel staff artist and bladesmith Jared Ondovchik (aka Artifact Metalworks).
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are not included with the registration—BYOB.
Hours & Admission*
This workshop is offered on February 19 and August 15, 2026
General Admission
$90 *Workshops are limited to 8 participants. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance as we cannot guarantee tickets will be available for walk-ups.
Location & Directions
The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley.
The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.
What to Know Before You Go
As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.

What to wear: Clothing you can get dirty. The workshop space is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited.
Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations, and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available and the ramp to the workshop space is ADA compliant. However, the grounds to the space may not be accessible for all wheelchairs. Contact us for details and options.
Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
Location: The Carrie Blast Furnaces are located in the communities of Swissvale and Rankin in the Monongahela River Valley. The address is 801 Carrie Furnace Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15218.

Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.
For more information, contact info@riversofsteel.com.
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