In Phoenix, the calendar marks four days dedicated to mixology. From February 27 to March 2, Arizona Cocktail Weekend returns—an event that over the years has transformed the state capital into a destination for those who approach drinking with curiosity. With more than 80 bars involved across Arizona, three main ticketed events anchor the program, supported by a packed schedule of guest shifts, tastings, and educational sessions.
A Long Weekend Devoted to Cocktails
Arizona Cocktail Weekend is one of the longest-running events of its kind in the United States. Now celebrating its 14th edition, the cocktail-focused festival features a wide range of activities, including tastings, expert-led seminars, and lively parties, alongside three headline events: The Cocktail Carnival, Top Bars, and Last Slinger Standing. These take place across various venues—hotels and bars throughout the Valley—although most events remain concentrated in downtown Phoenix, allowing attendees to move easily on foot.
The project is led by Ross Simon, also the driving force behind Bitter & Twisted Cocktail Parlour and Little Rituals, who has long worked to secure Phoenix a stable place on the international mixology map.
From Vision to Citywide Impact
Simon’s goal has always been to educate the public, elevate local bartenders, and shine a spotlight on the city. While early editions were hosted at Hotel Valley Ho in Scottsdale, for the past eight years the festival has shifted almost entirely to downtown Phoenix. The area, walkable and safer without the need for transport, has seen a wave of new openings and a steadily growing cocktail culture. With events drawing thousands of industry professionals and drink enthusiasts, Phoenix demonstrates its capacity to host large-scale, multi-venue gatherings.
Top Bars Invitational, Last Slinger Standing, and Cocktail Carnival
The Top Bars Invitational brings together acclaimed venues from Tokyo, Mexico City, London, and major U.S. cities. Hosted at Warehouse 215, an industrial space that for one night concentrates experiences that would normally require international travel, the event showcases signature cocktails from participating bars.
Last Slinger Standing features a renewed competition format with multiple challenges, two bartenders per round, and direct elimination.
Finally, the Cocktail Carnival — regularly selling out as the opening date approaches—has, through its partnership with Arizona Center, evolved into a kind of safari among stands and stations: as entertaining as it is educational. Not to be missed, along with the rest of the program, from February 27 to March 2.
