We’re shining a spotlight on the people behind the bar—celebrating the creativity, hustle, and heart of our local bartending community. Competitors from across Southwest Michigan and Northwest Indiana will present original cocktails that showcase their talent and the bars they represent.

Your ticket includes cocktail samples from the bartenders and you’ll be able to vote for who will take home the title of ‘Best Bartender’. The top winner will receive a $1,000 cash prize, a custom trophy, and a $500 donation to the charity of their choice. Cash prizes will also be awarded for second and third place.

Support the craft. Celebrate the people. Let the competition begin!

Tickets: $10 per person
Includes cocktail samples and a ballot to help decide the winner. Ages 21+ only.

Food will be available for purchase.

Competing Bartenders Include: 
Alex Silva – The False Front (New Buffalo, MI)
Austin Clifford – Nextdoor at Birdies (Valparaiso, IN)
Christopher Henn – Blue Point (Valparaiso, IN)
David Hoch – Tom Cat Tavern (Three Oaks, MI)
Jasmine Zickafoose – Plank’s Tavern, Inn at Harbor Shores (St. Joseph, MI)
Jeffery Martinic – Ryebelles Restaurant and Bar (St. Joseph, MI)
Justin Anderson – Essence Restaurant & Bar (Elkhart, IN)
Kathleen Driscoll – Longstory (Three Oaks, MI)
Mariah Bement – The Bait Shop (Valparaiso, IN)
Michael Livengood – American Legion (Three Oaks, MI)
Rick Fitch – Root & Bone (Indianapolis, IN)
Natisha Wlodarczyk – Postboy (New Buffalo, MI)
Tanner Zietek – Pikk’s Tavern (Valparaiso, IN)

For Bartenders

Think you’ve got what it takes? Step behind the bar and show off your skills. We’re calling on bartenders from across the region to compete in a one-night-only showdown. Represent your bar, craft an original cocktail, and put your creativity and technique on display!

SIGN UP HERE

**Deadline to sign up and submit cocktail recipes is Friday, May 23, 2025.**