The annual spirit conference has officially hit the Crescent City and people far and wide are enjoying every thing the event has to offer. Traditionally, thousands of people from around the country, and even the world, come to check things out. What happens if you live here, drink here and enjoy cocktails here and want to take part in Tales of the Cocktail?
For its 17th year, the Royal Sonesta is the headquarters for the event, which runs from July 16-21. Participants can take part in business and culture seminars, tasting rooms, brand education workshops, spirited dining and several other special events. We encourage you to download the app, which breaks down the activities day by day, hour by hour.
If you’re a cocktail enthusiast like us, you may want to check the bookstore and bitters market, which is open all week. Here you can browse the collection of cocktail books and a wide selection of bitters. World renowned writers will be on hand for book signings. You can pick something up for yourself, or a friend who loves spirits too.
The tasting room is a crowd favorite. When you get in, you’ll have full access to taste drinks and select products for more than 50 brands. You will have to purchase a ticket to enjoy the Tales Headliner Series, Morning Bar, Daily Tasting rooms, pool side lounges, balcony tasting and the corner bar.
You may also want to check out some of the may spirited dining and drinking events that will be happening all around town, maybe at one of your favorite local spots. When you go to one of these events, you will get to explore food and cocktail pairings and see how food and drink magically combine to make a wonderful experience.
So what do locals get out of the deal?
Overall, the cost is worth the buzz you’ll get by cramming in as much imbibing as you can over the days-long event. You’ll definitely leave with more knowledge about the spirits industry than when you came in and you’ll likely raise a glass with total strangers who may become life long friends. It really doesn’t get much better than that. We applaud the new leadership and what they are accomplishing this year.
Only in New Orleans can you put thousands of cocktail enthusiasts in one city, paint the town with garnish and fun, all the while doing it for a great cause and a super good time.
Cheers to Tales. Have fun, and let us know about your experience.
