Monthly Bartending Competitions

Monthly Bartending Competitions

Leading up to our 2023 Bartender Awards (the big event on July 10) and all year long, we are hosting monthly live competitions that will take place at a different local venue each month. You don’t have to be nominated or experienced to take part.

Participation is first-come, first-served. Depending on the competition, the number of entrants may be limited, usually to 10 – 12 participants, but there will always be attendee voting and something fun to do, even if you’re not part of the competition!

Each month will feature a different sponsor and theme. Contestants will be provided the sponsored product of the month and basic mixers (lemon, lime, simple syrup, soda, ice); other ingredients are your responsibility. Each contestant will receive $20 in reimbursement for supplies. We’ll provide a bar space and sample cups for attendees and judges to use to taste your creations.

First prize for each month is $100 cash plus at least that much in gifts/certificates from sponsors. Prizes will also be awarded for 1st and 2nd Runners Up, as well as People’s Choice (as voted on by attendees).

Sponsors include R1 Indoor Karting, Smoke Lab Vodka, Dusk Providence, Trinity Brewhouse, Jerry’s Artarama, and more.

Next Monthly Challenge

The August 22 event will be held at Providence Brewing Company at 7:30 and focus on Beer Cocktails and Beer/Shot Combos. More details coming soon!

To Participate

If you’re a bartender who’d like to participate, please register through the sign-up links in our monthly event pages (July competitions are at the Awards and open to all). If you’d like to be involved with future challenges or awards events, please complete our interest survey.

Past Challenges

The May challenge was to produce a mixed drink using SmokeLab’s Aniseed Vodka, a distinctive flavor with strong character.

June’s challenge featured Dystopian Drinks made with Bootblack Brand’s Cranberry Jalapeño Lime Cocktail and Soda Syrup. Photos and video coming soon!

July was our annual awards!

Watch some video of recent competitions below:

Upcoming Challenges

August 22, Tuesday – 7:30 Providence Brewing Company, PVD

September – Galactic Theater, Warren

October – Moonshine Alley, PVD

November – Kismet Improv, Pawtucket