Haute Event: Manhattan Cocktail Classic Opening Gala

New York’s hautest cocktail enthusiasts stepped out on May 11 to kick off  the five day fest known as the Manhattan Cocktail Classic at The New York Public Library.

Nearly 3,000 of  Gotham’s well-heeled celebrated the best libations the city had to offer, with a technological twist. Each guest was given a wristband, courtesy of tag stand and Tasting Table, equipped with NFC (Near Field Communication) tags, to scan at each station.  The wristband keeps track of all the cocktails, so the next morning (once the fog clears) each guest could re-visit their favorite drinks.

Patrón Tequila started the night off right for guests  with multiple stations, including a tequila popsicle cart, and cucumber shots. Guests then moved to the speak-easy downstairs where they danced alongside swing dancers and flappers to the sounds of a big jazz band. Cigarette girls offered goodies, while other guests dined on guacamole, jumbo shrimp, pretzels and dip or were serenaded by the Naked Cowboy.

By the end of the night, guests downed 30,000 cocktails made by 150 of the cities best bartenders.

For the five days after that, seminars, tastings and demonstrations took place all over the city at various bars, restaurants and galleries.

Only in New York can you attend a soiree where the drinks are the guest of honor.

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