Lost in all the attention garnered by Arizona Beer Week, it should be noted Saturday also kicks off Arizona Cocktail Week. Its 34 events, almost all in Scottsdale and Phoenix, will include seminars with nationally renowned mixologists, interactive tastings, and cocktail competitions.
In addition, people can purchase a $10 wristband that gets them 50% off featured cocktails at participating bars and restaurants during the week.
However, only four are in the East Valley: La Bocca, Modern Canteen, and Handlebar in Tempe and Sandbar in Chandler.
The week’s kickoff event is the Cocktail Carnival, which runs 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday at the Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale. Tickets are $5 for general admission (includes wristband) and $110 for VIP.
Other highlights: Tasting Panel AZCW Bar, where you can sample cocktails from some of bartending biggest names, Sunday at the Valley Ho, and Last Slinger Standing, a head-to-head bartending competition, Wednesday at Red Revolver Lounge in Scottsdale.
