NYC Events for Cocktail Lovers: What to Look Forward to This Year
New York City is set to host a variety of exciting events for cocktail enthusiasts in 2025. From festivals celebrating mixology to competitions showcasing the talents of bartenders, here are some highlights to look forward to:
1. New York Cocktail Expo 2025
Date: Sunday, August 17, 2025 Location: Melrose Ballroom, Long Island City, NY
Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the New York Cocktail Expo is the premier cocktail festival in New York. Attendees can enjoy tastings from over 60 exhibitors, including top cocktail bars and spirit brands from around the world. The event features competitions such as "Best Cocktail of the Year NYC," the iconic Tiki Throwdown, and awards for Best Mocktail and Best Wellness Cocktail. Early bird tickets are available for a limited time.
2. Shipwreck Saloon Cocktail Experience
Date: Saturday, February 15, 2025 Location: The 13th Storey, New York, NY
Step into an interactive show and cocktail experience led by mischievous pirates. The Shipwreck Saloon offers a unique adventure where attendees can indulge in four delicious cocktails that pair with each part of the show. This pop-up event is available for a limited time, so don't miss out on this immersive experience.
3. Great Jones Distilling's Manhattan 150th Anniversary Celebration
Date: January 14, 2025 Location: Great Jones Distilling Co., New York, NY
In honor of the 150th anniversary of the Manhattan cocktail, Great Jones Distilling is hosting an exclusive bartender competition. The event will feature some of the biggest names in the global bar community and will be accompanied by a public cocktail festival designed to showcase the finest sustainable brands, bars, and cocktails from around the world.
4. Cointreau Margarita Challenge 2025
Submission Deadline: October 15, 2024
The 2025 Cointreau Margarita Challenge invites bartenders from around the globe to showcase their mixology skills and creativity. This year's competition emphasizes sustainability, challenging participants to craft innovative Margaritas that utilize every part of a fruit—from flesh to peel to leaves—while incorporating at least 25 ml of Cointreau L’Unique and salt.
Stay Tuned for Art of the Cocktail Class Schedule
In addition to these exciting events, we are thrilled to announce that the Art of the Cocktail classes will be returning this year. These classes offer hands-on experiences where participants can learn the art of mixology from expert NYC bartenders. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or new to the world of cocktails, our classes provide a fun and educational environment to enhance your skills. Details on dates and locations will be announced soon.
2025 promises to be an exciting year for cocktail lovers in New York City. With a lineup of festivals, competitions, and interactive experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more information on the Art of the Cocktail classes to further immerse yourself in the city's vibrant cocktail culture.
