We honestly can't quite wrap our heads round the fact Birmingham Cocktail Weekend is approaching its 5th Birthday. So what better way to toast being around for half a decade than to have 50 venues?
I'm not going to sit and list all 50 venues in this post, you can see them all over at https://birminghamcocktailweekend.co.uk/. (Yes there's only 48 listed, but we have it on good knowledge there's 50 planned…) So book the 11th to the 14th of July off work and thank the heavens they've given us Thursday to Sunday this year.
So here's 5 reasons not to miss BCW 2019!
1 - The Venues
Hands down, when it was revealed to be 50 venues, we honestly thought the organisers are trying to kill us. Having for the past 3 years visited each and every one (check our social media, and our livers), we aren't going to stop this year. We may have lost a few from previous years, but some old favourites (Buffalo and Rye, Island Bar, The Alexandra) are still here to help us party!
Not only that, but with the number going up, it's time welcome some new additions! Some personal highlights are Arch 13 (who may even have some board games on the Sunday!), Nocturnal Animals (we're sure will have something up their sleeves) and Fumo.
2 - The Hub
Firmly staying in the Mailbox again this year - which is a great central hub - 2019 brings a new brand to the hub. Makers Mark are here to shocase their unique taste and bottling process. This gorgeous bourbon, which originates in Kentucky, are sure to kick-start your weekend when you pick up your wristband. So don't just grab and dash, take some time to chat with the reps, they know Birmingham better than most, I can guarantee that.
And who knows, they may have some special events lined up, just for BCW. Keep an eye out on the event page!
3 - The People
BCW is one of those rare occasions where people from everywhere come together. We've met families who use it as their annual meet and catch up, couples who treat it as their yearly anniversary celebration, hen parties, reunions and many more! Sitting in events with people who give you tips about drinks you haven't had yet, meeting brand reps who can re-tell stories of meeting celebs and forging memories you won't forget about.
But not only are there the guests - Cocktail Weekend is ran by one of the most dedicated teams ever. Got a question over the weekend? Drop by the Hub and ask. You'll be greeted with a smile, answer and maybe some advice for the rest of the event.
4 - The City
We can't talk about BCW without discussing the B. It doesn't matter if you're a local or a traveller, the wonderful city of Brum will welcome you for your cocktail adventure. But not only will you get to enjoy some amazing bars and bevs, but the trail of venues will take you all across the 2nd city. From the nooks of the Jewellery Quarter for The Vanguard/Birmingham Whisky Bar, all the way to Brindley place for Bank and The Hilton.
So please enjoy Birmingham. With the canals, greenery and architecture, we promise there's plenty to enjoy.
5 - The Drinks!
By god, we haven't talked about the drinks. Quick, lets talk about things we've had before.
Sweet stuff? Yeah, that amazing Lemon Meringue Pie cocktail from 2018.
Savoury? Oooh, didn't someone make an Earl Grey Iced Tea? That was insane!
We've had drinks made with science right? Those gel balls and the ones that changed colours!
Remember when the Botanist had the floating duck? Not only was that so cute, it tasted a-m-a-zing
Ooft, I still can taste the amazing sour one Jekyll and Hyde put out!
I really hope Vanguard put out another Slushie option, it was to die for.
I think the point has been made. There's 50 different drinks to choose from this year. If you can think it, it's going to be there.
Birmingham Cocktail Weekend - We are so proud of you for making it to year 5. From year one all the way to year one hundred, there's countless reasons to go. Don't miss it this year. 11th to the 14th of July, buy your tickets today!