Photo: Shaun the Bartender
Expect spirits to run high this April when UP Agency, the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership and local distributors and spirit companies join forces to present the first-ever Chandler Craft Spirits Festival. This is a celebration of craft distilleries doing big things for the spirits world.
From 5 pm – 10 pm Saturday, April 26, 2014, at Dr. AJ Park in Chandler (3 South Arizona Ave.), 21+ fans of Arizona’s burgeoning booze scene will mix, mingle and taste a variety of handcrafted spirits. From bourbons to beer cocktails, there is something for everyone.
The buzz is growing fast for this first-time event, where liquor will take center stage amidst the music of a live local DJ and a variety of booze-worthy events like a bartender cocktail competition and a cigar and whiskey lounge. Those wanting to take it up a notch will be able to purchase VIP tickets where high end spirits run high.
While the bulk of walk-around tasting events in and around town involve food, wine and beer, event organizers decided the time has come to mix things up with a special celebration of the state’s explosive cocktail culture and all the camaraderie, companionship and community-building that comes with it.
“We’re shaking things up – pun intended – with this event in an effort to let folks know that there are a bevy of beverage options beyond beer and wine out there,” said Jennifer Lindley, of the Downtown Chandler Community Partnership. “This event is a great opportunity for consumers and purveyors alike to interact, educate and celebrate the unique spirit culture of our state.”
Tickets are on sale now. General Admission passes are $35 and include 15 tasting tickets, and VIP passes are available for $75, and include 15 tastings of higher-end liquors and foods, plus access to a special lounge area. Samples include a 1 oz pour of a variety of different spirits, plus samples of beer and specialty craft cocktails. Food and treats will be available for purchase from a variety of local vendors.
“There aren’t too many occasions where industry insiders and avid fans of Arizona’s beer, wine and booze culture can sample such a vast selection of spirits in one place,” said Lindley. “Whether you’re a spirit lover on the hunt for new mixers or a supplier seeking a new way to showcase a particular product, this festival offers a variety of fun sampling and networking options until the last drop runs dry.”
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit or find them on Facebook and Twitter. #chandlerspirits #craftcocktails