From Feb. 10–12, cocktail enthusiasts will gather for the third annual For the Love of Cocktails, presented by Back Bar USA and staged across downtown Las Vegas. Produced in partnership with MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment, the weekend features author-mixologist Tony Abou-Ganim and culminates with a Grand Gala on Feb. 12 on the 64th floor of the Delano Las Vegas at Alain Ducasse’s Skyfall Lounge. The gala will showcase more than 25 mixology stations hosted by local, national and international bartenders, plus live entertainment.
The weekend program offers a variety of focused experiences. Meet the Masters of Cocktails takes place at the Bound lobby bar at The Cromwell Hotel & Casino, providing opportunities to sample expertly crafted drinks and learn from top bartenders. Meet the Masters of Wine is hosted at Giada, also at The Cromwell, and pairs a five-course, five-star meal by chef-restaurateur Giada De Laurentiis with exceptional wine selections. For a unique perspective on spirits, Meet the Masters of Distilleries is set at the High Roller observation wheel at The LINQ Hotel & Casino, where an after-dinner seminar will be held 550 feet above the city.
Beyond ticketed seminars and dinners, attendees can explore a lively Downtown Bar Crawl that highlights Las Vegas’s expanding cocktail scene. The crawl includes live music and stops at notable venues such as Velveteen Rabbit, Park on Fremont, Atomic Liquor, Therapy, Bin 702 and Herbs & Rye, giving visitors a broad view of local flavors and bartending talent. Additional programming includes the USBG Cocktail Truck Wars, brand micro-experiences that showcase new products and trends, and a series of educational seminars led by industry professionals.
The event blends hands-on learning, curated tasting experiences and social nightlife, making it appealing to both casual cocktail fans and industry insiders. With events hosted across signature Las Vegas venues and participation from established names in cocktails, wine and spirits, For the Love of Cocktails creates opportunities to discover new drinks, meet creators and enjoy an elevated weekend of libations and entertainment.