LOGAN SQUARE — The cocktail world of Chicago is converging on Logan Square — if it wasn't already there — for a two-day summit that kicks off Sunday.
The inaugural Chicago Cocktail Summit will feature two days of seminars, demos, tastings and panel discussions geared toward both consumers and restaurant and bar professionals.
The summit was organized by Billy Helmkamp of The Whistler and Erik Westra and will be held at the Logan Theatre, 2646 N. Milwaukee Ave.
The event runs from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday and Monday.
Sunday's program will be geared toward consumers and home cocktail enthusiasts with topics such as cocktail history, bitters production and drink-making techniques.
Monday's will include more advanced programing on topics such as in-depth spirits analysis, modern bartending techniques and tips on how to run a successful beverage program.
A full-access pass for a single day is $125. Four-session passes are $75 and a single session pass for any talk or seminar is $25.
Aside from the actual summit, there are a number of events being held at bars and restaurants all over the city associated with the event, most of which are free to get in.
Crawfish Boil & Cajun Cocktail Party @ Analogue (5 p.m. Sunday)
Channel the Louisiana bayou spirit with $15/pound crawfish served with all the fixins, special $8 Sazeracs, $8 Frozen Hurricanes and music by DJ Jesse Sandwich.
Stagg Party @ The Violet Hour (6 p.m. Sunday)
The Violet Hour hosts a whiskey- and Playboy-inspired Stagg Party featuring a cocktail menu highlighting rare vintages of George T. Stagg Whiskey. Charcuterie and cheese from Publican Quality Meats will also be available.
Maria’s Cocktail Club @ Maria’s Community Bar & Kimski (7 p.m. Sunday)
Maria’s “Cocktail Club” is back, featuring Letherbee cocktails created by Ken Zawacki and Graham Hogan with a food pairing also provided by Kimski. $5, RSVP to communitybar@gmail.com.
GRRRLs to the Front @ Crown Liquors (9 p.m. Sunday)
This party celebrates women’s contributions to Chicago’scocktail scene. The cocktail menu will feature recipes from women bartenders from around the city such as Kelly Glassi (Crown Liquors, MONEYGUN) and Elizabeth Renner (The Heavy Feather), among others. Bands from 9 p.m.-midnight and then a Riot Grrrl dance party.
After-Party sponsored by Bols Genever @ MONEYGUN (7 p.m. Monday)
Jam to the pioneers of hip hop and drinking from the famous school of Jerry Thomas.
Relax Attack Cocktail Party @ The Whistler (7 p.m. Monday)
Cocktail Summit presenters and attendees are invited to The Whistler for a good old-fashioned cocktail party to close out the inaugural two-day event. There will be live jazz.
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