Bartending Organizations & Annual Events

Bartending Organizations & Annual Events

Bartending Organizations

United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG)

The United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG) is the leading professional organization for bartenders and hospitality professionals in the U.S. Members benefit from education, networking, and competitions designed to enhance their skills and career growth. Through a robust network of local chapters, the USBG provides opportunities for bartenders to connect with peers, learn from industry experts, and gain exclusive access to industry events.

Membership in the USBG opens doors to brand-sponsored trips, educational tastings, and industry-leading competitions. Liquor brands often provide members with complimentary merchandise, including glassware, bar tools, and apparel. Additionally, the guild organizes national cocktail competitions where winners receive cash prizes, trips to distilleries, and exclusive industry mentorships. The USBG also offers scholarships for professional development, making it an attractive resource for those looking to advance in the field.

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Access to exclusive networking events with top bartenders and industry leaders.
    • Free branded swag, bar tools, and liquor samples from sponsoring brands.
    • Entry into high-profile cocktail competitions with prize opportunities.
    • Educational seminars on advanced bartending techniques and industry trends.
    • Opportunity for sponsored travel to distilleries and industry conventions.

  • Costs:

    • Annual membership fee: ~$125.
    • Additional costs for national competitions and premium events.

Certainly! Here's an overview of the National Bartenders Association (NBA) and the Flair Bartenders' Association (FBA), focusing on the benefits attendees receive, such as complimentary merchandise from liquor brands, travel opportunities, networking, and provisions of food and beverages. Known costs are also noted where available.

National Bartenders Association (NBA):

Established in 1986, the National Bartenders Association (NBA) is dedicated to providing bartenders and servers with valuable resources to enhance their careers. One of the key benefits of NBA membership is access to the CocktailRegistry, a platform where members can submit up to 25 of their original cocktail recipes annually. This feature not only allows bartenders to showcase their creativity but also serves as a professional portfolio that can be shared with potential employers or clients. 

While specific details about complimentary merchandise from liquor brands or sponsored travel opportunities are not explicitly mentioned in the available information, the NBA emphasizes the value of community and networking. Membership in the NBA is recognized as a professional credential, which can enhance a bartender's resume and open doors to various industry events and opportunities. These events often provide platforms for members to connect with peers, industry leaders, and potential employers, fostering valuable relationships within the hospitality sector. 

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Submission of up to 25 cocktail recipes per year on the CocktailRegistry.
    • Professional recognition, enhancing resume credibility.
    • Access to a community of industry professionals for networking and support.

  • Costs:

    • Annual membership fee: $39.99.

Flair Bartenders' Association (FBA):

The Flair Bartenders' Association (FBA) is dedicated to the art and sport of flair bartending, supporting enthusiasts through events, competitions, and educational resources. The FBA offers two tiers of membership: Basic and Premium. The Basic membership is free and provides access to the FBA Member Directory and the Flairbar.com Archive, which includes a wealth of information on flair techniques and performances. 

Premium members, who pay an annual fee of $35, receive additional benefits such as an official FBA Premium Membership Certificate and Card, discounted tickets to select FBA events, and the exclusive privilege to vote on FBA Annual Awards. These events and competitions often feature sponsorships from liquor brands, providing participants and attendees with opportunities to receive complimentary branded merchandise and samples. Moreover, FBA events serve as excellent networking platforms, allowing members to connect with fellow flair bartenders, industry professionals, and potential employers. 

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Basic Membership (Free):
      • Access to the FBA Member Directory.
      • Entry to the Flairbar.com Archive for educational resources.
    • Premium Membership ($35/year):
      • Official FBA Membership Certificate and Card.
      • Discounted tickets to select FBA events.
      • Voting rights for FBA Annual Awards.

  • Costs:

    • Basic Membership: Free.
    • Premium Membership: $35 annually.

Both organizations offer unique benefits tailored to different aspects of bartending. The NBA focuses on professional development and community building, while the FBA emphasizes the performance art of flair bartending, providing resources and opportunities for those looking to specialize in this dynamic field.

Tales of the Cocktail (New Orleans)

Tales of the Cocktail is one of the world’s most prestigious cocktail festivals, drawing thousands of bartenders, brand ambassadors, and spirits enthusiasts to New Orleans every year. This multi-day event offers educational panels, tasting rooms, and networking opportunities. Attendees get the chance to learn from the best in the business while experiencing one of the most vibrant cocktail scenes in the world.

One of the standout aspects of this event is the sheer number of sponsored events with free food, liquor samples, and branded merchandise. Dozens of liquor companies host pop-up bars, tastings, and workshops, where attendees can try exclusive, unreleased spirits and cocktails. The event also includes legendary parties, industry award ceremonies, and after-hours networking events.

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Free liquor samples and cocktail tastings from leading brands.
    • Branded swag including glassware, bar tools, and apparel.
    • Access to exclusive networking parties with top bartenders and distillers.
    • Educational seminars led by renowned industry experts.
    • Sponsored VIP experiences with invite-only cocktail lounges.

  • Costs:

    • General event access is free, but some seminars and tastings require tickets.
    • Individual seminar tickets: ~$35-$50 per session.
    • All-access pass: ~$350+ for premium experiences.


Bartending Annual Events

Bar Convent Brooklyn

Bar Convent Brooklyn (BCB) is a leading trade show for bartenders, bar owners, and beverage industry professionals. The event is a hub for discovering new spirits, networking with brands, and attending expert-led seminars. Hosted in Brooklyn, NY, this annual gathering is a must-attend for anyone serious about the cocktail industry.

BCB offers attendees direct access to liquor brands, free samples, and professional networking. Many exhibiting companies provide free bottles, branded merchandise, and hands-on tasting experiences. The event’s interactive format allows bartenders to test the latest bar tools, experiment with new ingredients, and engage in mixology challenges.

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Unlimited free tastings of premium spirits from global brands.
    • Complimentary branded glassware, bar tools, and swag.
    • Networking events with top bartenders, bar managers, and distributors.
    • Live cocktail demonstrations by industry-leading mixologists.
    • Educational workshops on new trends, techniques, and ingredients.

  • Costs:

    • One-day pass: ~$65.
    • Two-day pass: ~$120.

San Antonio Cocktail Conference

The San Antonio Cocktail Conference blends education, networking, and philanthropy, making it one of the most community-focused cocktail events in the U.S. Proceeds from the event benefit local charities, and attendees enjoy a packed schedule of tastings, seminars, and parties.

This conference stands out for its high level of brand engagement, offering free liquor tastings, swag, and networking opportunities. Liquor companies sponsor tastings, where bartenders can sample unique spirits and learn about new products. Nightly parties include unlimited craft cocktails, live entertainment, and food pairings.

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Free liquor tastings and sponsored pop-up bars.
    • Complimentary branded bar tools and merchandise.
    • Networking events with industry leaders and top bartenders.
    • Mixology workshops and panel discussions.
    • Evening parties with open bars and food pairings.

  • Costs:

    • Individual event tickets: ~$30-$100 each.
    • Full-access passes: ~$400+.

Las Vegas Nightclub & Bar Show

The Las Vegas Nightclub & Bar Show is a high-energy trade show focused on the bar and nightlife industry. This event caters to bar owners, managers, and industry professionals looking for the latest in spirits, bar equipment, and business strategies.

Attendees benefit from hundreds of free liquor tastings, branded swag, and live demonstrations. Many exhibitors offer free samples of their products, making it an excellent opportunity for bartenders to discover new brands. There are also VIP networking lounges, after-hours parties, and hands-on cocktail creation workshops.

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Complimentary liquor tastings from top brands.
    • Free branded merchandise, including glassware and bar tools.
    • Access to VIP networking lounges with industry executives.
    • Live cocktail-making demos and expert panels.
    • Massive expo showcasing the latest bar tech and ingredients.

  • Costs:

    • Expo-only pass: ~$99.
    • Full-conference pass: ~$299+.

PDX Cocktail Week

PDX Cocktail Week is an educational and community-driven event in Portland, Oregon, featuring hands-on training, industry panels, and mixology-focused workshops. Unlike other cocktail weeks, PDX focuses on skill-building and career development for bartenders.

Attendees can network with top-tier brands, receive free merchandise, and participate in hands-on cocktail labs. Many liquor brands sponsor events, offering free tastings and giveaways. The event also includes exclusive industry parties with unlimited cocktails and food pairings.

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Free liquor samples and hands-on mixology workshops.
    • Branded bar tools, apparel, and giveaways from sponsors.
    • Skill-focused classes on advanced bartending techniques.
    • Networking events with bar owners and brand representatives.
    • Exclusive invitation-only cocktail events.

  • Costs:

    • Most general events are free, but some workshops require tickets (~$25-$75).

Speed Rack:

Founded in 2011, Speed Rack is an all-female high-speed bartending competition designed to highlight up-and-coming women and femme-identifying individuals in the cocktail industry while raising funds for breast cancer research. Participants compete in timed challenges, showcasing their speed and accuracy in crafting cocktails. The competition spans multiple regional events, culminating in a national final. 

Attendees of Speed Rack events benefit from engaging with a vibrant community of industry professionals and enthusiasts. The events are often sponsored by major liquor brands, providing attendees with opportunities to sample a variety of spirits and cocktails. Additionally, attendees can enjoy complimentary food and beverages during the events, enhancing the overall experience. 

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Opportunity to support a charitable cause, with 100% of proceeds benefiting breast cancer research and education.
    • Networking with industry professionals, including top female bartenders and brand representatives.
    • Access to complimentary cocktails and snacks during the event.

  • Costs:

    • Ticket prices typically range from $25 to $30, with all proceeds donated to breast cancer charities. citeturn0search8

Bar Summit:

Organized by the United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG), the Bar Summit is a national conference that brings together the bar, beverage, and hospitality community for education, networking, and discussions on industry trends. The 2025 Bar Summit is scheduled for May 18–21 at The Westin Buckhead Atlanta in Atlanta, GA. 

Attendees can participate in engaging seminars, workshops, and panel discussions led by industry leaders, providing insights into best practices and the latest innovations shaping the craft. The event offers unparalleled networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with educators, influencers, and professionals from across the country. While specific details about complimentary merchandise, food, and beverages are not explicitly mentioned, such conferences often feature sponsored sessions where liquor brands provide samples and branded items.

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Access to educational seminars and workshops covering a wide range of industry topics.
    • Networking opportunities with industry leaders and peers.
    • Exposure to the latest trends and innovations in the bar and hospitality industry.

  • Costs:

    • Registration fees vary, with discounts available for USBG members. Specific pricing details are typically provided during the registration process.

Seattle Cocktail Week:

Held annually during Seattle Cocktail Week, the Bartender's Circle Summit is designed specifically for bartenders and industry professionals to enhance their knowledge and skills. The 2025 summit is scheduled for March 3–5 at the Seattle Center Armory in Seattle, WA. 

The summit offers a comprehensive learning experience, covering multiple elements of bar and hospitality education in a single, convenient location. Participants can expect to learn from industry leaders and experts from around the world through various sessions and masterclasses. The event is supported by participating brands, providing attendees with opportunities to network with brand representatives and peers. While specific details about complimentary merchandise, food, and beverages are not explicitly mentioned, such events often include sponsored sessions where attendees can receive samples and branded items.

  • Features & Benefits:

    • Educational sessions and masterclasses led by industry experts.
    • Networking opportunities with peers and brand representatives.
    • Access to the broader Seattle Cocktail Week events and activities.

  • Costs:

    • Registration opens on November 15, 2024. Specific pricing details are typically provided during the registration process.
Back to blog