Pregame RCR week with the best popcorn in town and a film screening of “BAR,” the thrilling and inspirational story of five people from around the U.S. who descend on the Culinary Institute of America in NYC to participate in the world’s premiere program on distilled spirits and mixology. 

The Little Theatre

“BAR” Film Screening + RCR Pregame

5/31/26 - Sunday

When every shift is worked in a new location, you build (and tear down) the bar nightly and you create customized menus for each event, how do you maintain — or even elevate — the ‘craft’ in craft cocktails? Hear the answer from a panel of experienced mobile bartenders: Kyle Olson of Rumble + Stir, Brandon Pinkins of The Cocktail Lab, Peter Luciano of Handle Bar Catering, and Adrean Valerio of Seared & Saccharum Mobile Catering. Jackrabbit Club will provide a complimentary lunch for attendees on Mon + Tues. ASL interpreting services available; please contact cheers@rochestercocktailrevival.com by May 25 to request. Sponsored by Haus Alpenz. -- MEET THE SPEAKERS Adrean Valerio spent the last 15 years behind the bar, with experience ranging from sports bars and high-volume service to fine dining and craft cocktails. In 2024, she and her husband Anthony, a chef, launched their catering company, Seared & Saccharum. Bringing her craft cocktail background into the catering world, Adrean focuses on creating elevated, approachable bar experiences that bring the detail and creativity of a cocktail program into any setting. Brandon Pinkins has been bartending for six years and found his niche through mobile bartending and teaching cocktail classes. He loves entertaining guests and has a lot more ideas up his sleeve for the near future, so be on the lookout. After a decade of touring and recording with artists including Jack White, Mark Ronson, Billy Idol, and a multitude of bands and solo acts; drummer Kyle Olson entered the world of NYC high-end catering. He fell in love with the passion and creativity of this community, and found a magic that existed outside the walls of the recording studio. Inspired by that experience as well as the photography and thesis of Death & Company’s “Cocktail Codex,” Kyle launched the Instagram blog Rumble + Stir. Over the past four years, Rumble + Stir has evolved from a digital passion project into a thriving, Rochester-based mobile bartending company; executing over 70 events per year with a dedicated staff of 8 bartenders. Peter Luciano started as a young barback at The Daily Refresher. Moved around from town to town. Saw the opportunity to bring the bar to people instead of people to the bar: “Now here we are, with a bar in our car.”

Jackrabbit Club

On the Road: Keeping the Craft in Mobile Bartending

There’s no shortage of advice on opening a bar in a big city. Smaller cities play by different rules—and if you understand them, you can build something more durable: a bar that lasts, generates a sustainable living, and becomes part of the fabric of its town. Opening night is easy to market. Keeping the doors open for decades is the real work, and the real opportunity in a smaller market. In this seminar, Francis Schott and Eamon Rockey dive into this topic and provide tasty sips along the way. Jackrabbit Club will provide a complimentary lunch for attendees on Mon + Tues. ASL interpreting services available; please contact cheers@rochestercocktailrevival.com by May 25 to request. Sponsored by Haus Alpenz. -- MEET THE SPEAKERS Francis Schott, co-owner of Stage Left & Catherine Lombardi in New Brunswick NJ, is incredibly excited to join as a speaker at RCR this year. In addition to his restaurants (turning 34 this year), he and his partner Mark founded one of our industry’s original podcasts (The Restaurant Guys), has given testimony before state legislatures on behalf of the NJ hospitality community, assisted in founding Belfast Restaurant Week, is a fantastic speaker & story teller, and can safely say that his bars were quietly contributing to the craft cocktail renaissance from day one. Eamon Rockey is a graduate of the Culinary Institute of America (BPS ‘06). He has worked in service, management, or partnership at some of NYC’s most highly regarded restaurants, including Eleven Madison Park, Atera, Aska, and Betony. He has spearheaded numerous critically acclaimed beverage programs, and with the desire to create the ultimate accompaniment to any spirit or drink, he launched Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur in 2020, a natural, versatile, New York spirit made from green apple, pineapple, green & black tea, and citrus. Rockey regularly speaks around the world on hospitality, management, and bartending. Rockey’s work behind the bar has been featured in multiple books as well as The New York Times, Edible Manhattan, Eater, The New York Daily News, Cooks Science, and The New Yorker.

Big Fish, Small Pond: Thriving Outside of Major Cities from Opening Night to Year 20

Your shift’s over… But it never started. Clock in for your shift drink and kick off RCR week the right way. We’re pouring Lalo Tequila shots and cocktail specials all day long. Waiting on the RCR Launchpad Party? We’ve got you covered. We’re right down the street and ready to get you properly prepped. If you can read this, you’re industry… And you’re cut.

Aqua Vitae

All-Day Industry Happy Hour

Camp Lucky's is open for fun all week long! We've got games, crafts, and all the bug juice you can drink to help beat the RCR heat. Hit the canteen for summer camp inspired cocktails, with discounts at the bar for anyone wearing an RCR wristband.

Lucky's

Camp Lucky's

Join us on the patio as our staff competes for the title of Oyster Shucking Champion. You'll help judge their technique and speed — and, of course, sample their signature sauces.

Lila's

Oyster Shuck-Off

Didn't get invited to the bachelorette party? No sweat, Shell has you covered — celebrate ladies night with an Under the Sea party! Grab your friends, summer linens and an appetite because guest bartender Annabelle and the ladies you see each time you come in will be serving up a special 'girl dinner' bar menu and cocktails featuring Gray Whale Gin. No ticket required, but reservations are encouraged!ay

Shell Restaurant

Sip by the Sea 

We’re kicking off RCR 13 with a party dedicated to spirits making their Rochester debut. Seven booze brands – Fee Brothers, Acid Sprits, Toki Black, Chamberyzette, Living Roots Sour Grapes, Battle Rattle and Tres Agaves – are teaming up with RCR bartenders at the Genesee Valley Club for a live showcase of cocktails created with their *brand new* products. Rock to ‘80s metal covers from The Perrin Yang Quartet, and be ready to vote for your favorite iteration of a new hooch! Snacks from GVC will be available; seven tastings included with each admission ticket. Must be 21+ and show ID for entry; please adhere to the club's dress code: dress shirt with jacket preferred for men, similar level of attire for women. Dark denim permitted. Sponsored by Fee Brothers.

Genesee Valley Club

RCR Launchpad Party

Vinyl night! How else would you want to kick off RCR Monday? Come listen while the owner of Fort Hamilton spins records alongside our very own Discolobos. Special cocktails and vibes 'til late!

Martine

Martine on Wax: Industry Late Night

6/1/26 - Monday

Before London Dry became the global standard, Old Tom was the dominant London gin style and a key foundation of the classic cocktail era. Led by Lee Fisher of Hayman’s Gin Distillery, this seminar explores Old Tom's origins and how the style shaped late-19th-century classics such as the Martinez, Tom Collins, and Ramos Gin Fizz. With its depth of flavor, gentle sweetness, and rounded profile, Old Tom remains highly relevant for modern cocktail programs. Jackrabbit Club will provide a complimentary lunch for attendees on Mon + Tues. ASL interpreting services available; please contact cheers@rochestercocktailrevival.com by May 25 to request. Sponsored by Haus Alpenz. -- MEET THE SPEAKER With more than 25 years’ experience in the drinks industry, Lee Fisher is International Head for Hayman’s – The Original Gin. The Hayman family has been making their best tasting gin in London for over five generations, earning a loyal following all over the world.Fisher joined Hayman’s in 2016, after having worked with some of the biggest drinks brands in the world across China, Europe, the U.S. and Australia. A passionate believer that all great cocktails start with a great spirit and a keen champion of authentic truth and the history behind the brand, for his cocktail of choice, Fisher is a strong advocate of an Old Tom — Tom Collins.

The Past and Present of the Original London Gin Style

Join diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner Syd Bell (she/her) and wine writer Maiah Johnson Dunn (she/her) for DEI Over Cocktails: an honest and actionable conversation exploring power, privilege, and active allyship paired with real-world examples — and a good cocktail. Jackrabbit Club will provide a complimentary lunch for attendees on Mon + Tues. ASL interpreting services available; please contact cheers@rochestercocktailrevival.com by May 25 to request. Sponsored by Haus Alpenz. -- MEET THE SPEAKERS Syd Bell (she/her) serves as co-director at Our Local History where she and her team empower students, teachers, and community members to engage with their local history of civil rights. As a diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner and facilitator, Syd helps teams build systems and processes that center those who have been historically excluded across generations. She is an active volunteer with the Women's Foundation of Genesee Valley, Writers & Books, the Rochester J.E.D.I. Collective, and ROC Community Table. Maiah Johnson Dunn is a writer from Boston based in Rochester. Her wine writing has been featured in Decanter Magazine, CITY Magazine, The Oxford Companion to Wine, and the upcoming edition of the World Atlas of Wine. She is a Napa Valley Wine Writer Symposium Fellow and a Wine Enthusiast Future 40 Tastemaker Honoree. In her newsletter, The Loveworthy, she writes about wine and culture from a personal lens.

DEI Over Cocktails

The term NUNCA DUERME transtlates to "never sleeps," an accurate way to describe the ever-evolving world of Mexican distillation. Join the Tapas crew for a walkaround tasting of Mexican rum, gin, brandy, liqueur, whiskey and agave from 2:30-4:30p, followed by a happy hour spanning and featuring all the categories from the Skurnik portfolio from 4:30-6p.

Tapas 177

Nunca Duerme: The World of Mexican Distillation

Taco Tuesday just got an upgrade. We’re linking up with Tres Agaves — Wine Enthusiast’s 2025 Spirit Brand of the Year — for a night of $4 tacos, agave-forward cocktails, and exclusive tequila-and-taco pairings. One night. Limited availability. The kind of Tuesday you’ll actually remember. See you there!

Bitter Honey

Let’s Taco ‘Bout It

THIS & A YAP: Martinis, Caviar & GossipIn collaboration with Gray Whale GinFREE YOUR EVENING. TEXT THE GROUP CHAT. WE’LL SAVE YOU A SEAT.We’re skipping the full dinner plans and going straight to what actually matters: ice cold martinis, Caesar salads, golden fries, and caviar service done right (yes, mother of pearl spoons included).Join us for a night of unapologetic friends dinner indulgence, where the pours are strong, the vibes are high, and the conversation gets just a little louder with every round. Expect perfectly chilled Gray Whale martinis flowing, salty bites, staying out later than planned, and a room full of friends catching up with conversations that start with “wait… what?” and end with “tell me everything.”Dress cute. Bring your favorite people. Come ready to sip, snack, and say everything you’ve been meaning to.RSVP required; limited spots available.

Patron Saint

This & A Yap

Find that your margarita at home just isn't as tasty as the one at your favorite bar? Join Caroline Pardilla, author of "Margarita Time" and Imbibe Magazine digital editor, and Max Reis, the beverage director of 2026 North America's 50 Best Bars Mírate (No. 28) and Daisy Margarita Bar (No. 44) in Los Angeles, for a lesson on how to craft the best margarita of your life, followed by an agave happy hour. Hint: You don't need the most expensive tequila or expert bar tools. The cocktail experts will share their tips and tricks, such as how to craft a signature marg, what you need to stock a margarita home bar, how to shop for tequila, and more. Ticket includes seminar, meet and greet, and a cocktail. 21+ only.

Make the Perfect Margarita: Seminar + Happy Hour

Grace & Disgrace and Hollerhorn Distilling join forces once again to present a one-of-a-kind RCR13 cocktail party! For one night only, G&D is departing from its "reservation required" format to bring you a night of unique stirred cocktails centered around an incredible spirit array from the legendary Hollerhorn spirits portfolio. In addition to the featured cocktails, there will be a very special tasting table where guests will have the opportunity to mingle with Master Distiller Karl Neubauer. Free admission, no ticket required and complimentary hors d'oeuvres (while they last). 

Grace & Disgrace

Something Graceful Stirs: An Evening with Hollerhorn Spirits

An evening celebrating the flavors of Italy with a four‑course tasting dinner and cocktail pairing. Expect housemade pastas and regional specialties; cocktails will showcase traditional Italian bitter/sweet botanical liqueurs from the Skurnik Wines & Spirits portfolio. Move from a bright citrusy aperitivo to an alpine amaro and espresso finale, each pairing curated to highlight the spirit and personality of Italy’s food and drink culture. Event duration is an hour and a half, with two seatings available.

Sagra Italia

Sagra degli Spiriti: Feast of the Spirits

Welcome to a fun class about Rochester cocktails! With RCR occurring right now, we wanted to bring some of our favorites from Rochester Cocktail Revival bars to the evening's class. As always, we will have light appetizers and a welcome drink, a brief history on alcohol and cocktails through history, a tutorial on the tools and proper usage of the tools needed for the class.

The Daily Refresher

Flower City Drinksmiths: RCR Edition

Think you know your cocktails? Time to prove it. Join us at Ziggy’s for a high-energy Cocktail Trivia Night, hosted by Game Night Roc and featuring Keeper’s Heart Whiskey as part of Rochester Cocktail Revival. This isn’t your typical trivia night. You’ll taste your way through five mystery cocktails, testing both your palate and your knowledge as you compete for bragging rights (and maybe more). Expect a lively room, fast-paced rounds, and just the right amount of chaos as teams go head-to-head. Your ticket includes:• Five mystery cocktail tastings• A curated small bite• Full access to the trivia competition Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, industry pro, or just in it for a fun night out, this is your chance to sip, think, and win. The kitchen will be open throughout the event, so come hungry. Seating is limited and expected to fill quickly. 21+ only. Grab your crew, brush up on your cocktail knowledge, and we’ll see you at Ziggy’s. *Please arrive by 6:30 PM for seating

Ziggy's

Cocktail Trivia with Game Night Roc

Who doesn't love a great taco? Chef Jake Cornfield is firing up the grill at Martine to make some special tacos with super special guest bartender Maxwell Reis AKA @beerghost AKA World's 50 Best Bar owner of LA spots Mírate and Daisy behind the bar schooling us on all things agave.

Tako Tuesday

Grab your Scout handbook and rewatch "Wet Hot American Summer," because we're testing your knowledge of all things summer camp with Lucky's Tuesday Trivia, hosted by Game Night Roc.

Summer Camp Trivia

6/2/26 - Tuesday

We’re taking over The Coop between Bevy and Pearson's for a proper little Fernet Branca happy hour! Cocktails, day drinking, questionable decisions, and the official release of the Upstate NY Fernet coin. Post up at the outdoor bar and prove once and for all that you’re the biggest Fernet freak in the state. Industry legends, patio rats, bitter drink devotees: this one’s for you.

Bevy 

Coins in The Coop: Upstate Fernet Coin Release Party

The Derby might be over, but let's have another reason to put on our best and favorite hat. Join us for a Kentucky Derby-themed dinner you will not want to miss as Chef Cruz Nieves and Shane Kleinschmidt craft a special menu highlighting Willett Distiling's best products. You’ll be transported right to the South during this five-course pairing dinner. Giddy up and secure your seat, reservations will go renegade fast!

Kentucky Derby Dinner with Willett

Sláinte! Join Daily Refresher and Barry's Irish Cream as we bring a taste of the Emerald Isle to RCR! Gather the lads and lassies for cocktails made with Barry's Irish Cream, listen to Celtic musicians, and embrace Irish culture with all of ye b'ys from home!

Cèilidh Social

The George Eastman Museum's terrace garden provides a lush setting for guests to sip botanical cocktail creations and admire the delphinium, a focus of the museum’s current exhibit “Edward Steichen and the Garden.” Dance to the folksy tunes of A Girl Named Genny, commission a custom poem from J.R. Taylor, pose for a Hypebooth photo and make origami flowers with the Eastman Museum staff. A la carte boards from Cheese & Charcuterie and sweets from CakeLani will be available for purchase. Break out your finest floral & linen attire and top with a hat that George himself would want to photograph. Two cocktails included with each ticket; additional cocktails will be available for purchase. VIP level includes a welcome drink + guided exhibit tour (arrival at 5p, tour at 5:15p). 21+ only. Sponsored by Brown-Forman.

George Eastman Museum

Delphinium Garden Party

Come get wet and wild on a Wednesday for a naughty nautical night with the Easy Sailors. Cool off on our patio-turned-pool, shake it to some club shanties and enjoy a salacious shot off an able seamen. Crop tops and short shorts mandatory; sundresses post-Garden Party will be altered at no charge. Chairman's Reserve and Rhum JM concocktions will lubricate your larynx. XXX marks the spot.

Easy Sailor

Land Ho!

Probitas Rum is challenging the Rochester mixologist community to create the next modern classic: a cocktail distinctive enough to travel beyond the bar where it was born and continue to be ordered years — even decades — after its creation. Five bartenders will be selected to present their entry to a panel of judges; join us to watch the showdown, try the drinks for yourself, and be in the room where the next modern classic comes to life.

Good Luck

The Modern Classic Challenge

It's a bad night to be a kocktail and a shot... Papi Trizzy and Will Cornfield are running it back, coming at ya with another big time DJ set. Come hype up your guys while they get a little break from behind the bar.

Garden Party Afters

6/3/26 - Wednesday

Riposo is the Italian version of a siesta Riposo is the Italian version of a siesta. Escape the hustle and bustle of the week — take a break from work and the stress of life as you escape to an effervescent, relaxing afternoon at Vern’s. Think lunch filled with bubbles and low ABV, icy, beautiful cocktails paired with creative but comforting dishes. The Vern’s bar team and Chef Matt will lead you through a set lunch with suggested beverage pairing. Florals, tablecloths, and lunch laughing over pasta and spritzes with good company. Reservations required.

Vern's

Riposo Lunch

Liquid Operational Intelligence: Scaling Complexity for Longevity This panel brings together a group of industry voices at different stages of their journey to explore the realities of growth in this business. From early career momentum to leadership roles, the conversation will cover lessons learned, pivotal decisions, and the challenges that shape the path along the way. Hear from industry shaper Dave Arnold, operator of Bar Contra in NYC and author of “Liquid Intelligence: The Art and Science of the Perfect Cocktail,” a definitive and unprecedented textbook on the science of cocktails and the use of new technologies that won both James Beard and IACP awards; and Joshua Thompson, a rising leader at Tales of the Cocktail who has launched his own pop-up concepts while continuing his education through Bar 5 Day, the conversation will offer a candid look at navigating opportunities, building credibility, and evolving within a fast-moving industry. The conversation will be moderated by Adrienne Stoner, a bar veteran who's spent years at the acclaimed Three Dots and a Dash and Lost Lake under the tenure of Paul McGee, and has since carved out a unique path on the supplier side as Rum Community Liaison at Maison Ferrand. Expect an honest, practical discussion designed for anyone looking to grow, lead, and define their place in hospitality. ASL interpreting services available; please contact cheers@rochestercocktailrevival.com by May 25 to request. Sponsored by Maison Ferrand.

Liquid Operational Intelligence with Dave Arnold + Joshua Thompson

Ready to spend half a day at Martine? Well, you have good reasons: Start the day off with an afternoon walkaround tasting featuring 8 tables of amazing whiskeys from the Skurnik portfolio, including Willett Family Distillery, High Road Spirits, Altamar Brands, Pinhook Whiskey, Finger Lakes Distilling & Starlight Distillery. A happy hour follows, with special guest bartender Leanne Favre – owner of award-winning Brooklyn bar DOLORES – whipping up drinks that highlight the Skurnik portfolio. The night continues with Martine becoming Club Juicy with DJs AP and Duppy. Drinks and good music all day and night long.

Whiskey Walkaround + OKA Afterparty

Join us at Roux for a Frenchie-inspired apéro hour from 4-7 p.m. — summer cocktails, petit snacks and a relaxed evening at the bar or on the patio, just like the French do.

Roux

Girl Dinner Society

Join us at Rev BBQ for a Western night hosted by Tito’s! Enjoy live music by Texas Headphones, western dress-up, live tattoos, and on-site tintype photos. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening!

Rev BBQ

Western Night

Bitter Honey transforms into a Mexican street market-meets-agave celebration featuring flea market vendors, live music, and a cocktail menu built around LALO Tequila, one of the fastest-growing premium blanco tequilas in the country. Grab elote, mango con chile, and a LALO Cocktail while you browse. Market vendors 5–9p. Special guests: Travis Tober & Dan from Nickel City (Austin, TX)Cale Brown from Jungle Bird 504Nick Hogan from Mover & Shaker....and more! And don’t leave early — rumor has it a mariachi band might show up.

El Mercado de Agave

You're hereby pressed into service aboard the Easy Sailor... Explore every hidden nook and cranny above and below decks to find Easter Island Eggs redeemable for Diplomatico Rum treasures. Find as many hidden Diplomatico Faces hidden around the ship as ye can; turn them into the Quartermaster for prizes galore! Should one lucky freebooter find every face and save all their points, they'll be awarded the Easy Sailor Hidden Immunity Idol. Refresh inbetween hunting expeditions with the finest of grogs and potions concocted by the meanest scallywags south of Lake Ontario. Join us or walk the plank, ye must choose!

Easy Sailor and the Hunt for Drunken Treasure

Hang for savory bites and sips with ur fave moms @ The Coop. David and Flo are teaming up with Isolation Proof Gin and some of our go-to local farms, Squash Blossom and Growing Family, to explore the flavor wheel — how do food and drink work together, and how can we find the perfect mouthful? And seriously, we want you to bring a mom(my).

Umami Mommy Night

Enjoy a sampling of the spirits the House of Rémy Cointreau offers — sip custom cocktails created by Rémy Cointreau craft expert Dillon Otuama, featuring world class spirits like Botanist Gin, Remy V Eau de Vie, Watchpost Whiskey, and more. Try these carefully crafted creations and go home with some of the classiest swag this side of the pond.

An Evening with Rémy Cointreau

Saddle up for an unforgettable Texas-style music festival where bold flavors, friendly competition, and world-class bourbon come together. Lasso a bull, work on your target practice, enjoy the DJ and we’ll keep the fun going all night. Follow the action with the irresistible aroma of classic BBQ favorites and expertly crafted cocktails featuring Milam & Greene's award-winning Texas bourbon. Grab your boots, bring your appetite, and get ready to rumble!

Nosh

Southern Skies Festival

Four Pillars, an Australian distillery, crafts gins as diverse as its home's landscape. We're matching their passion for flavor and fun with cocktails from bar manager Wyatt Brennan served alongside an inspired 5-course dinner from the Cure culinary team.

Cure

Tides and Tonic: A Four Pillars Gin Cocktail Dinner

We're skipping the plastic trays and bringing all of the nostalgia for this Lucky's dinner inspired by long summer nights and childhood delights. The Mess Hall dinner menu, along with rum-juice cocktail specials and Camp Lucky's full drink menu, will be available a la carte in the dining room and at the bar.

Mess Hall: A Dinner at Camp Lucky's

Aqua Vitae is teaming up with Bib & Tucker bourbon & getting creative with cocktails built for every pace. Start your journey bright and crushable with crispy highballs, then settle in with something spirit forward and slow. Whether you’re chasing something light or a deeper sip, there’s fortune to be found here. Two Speeds. One Spirit.

Liquid Gold Rush: The Highs & Lows

RCR gets Fizzy with Segura Viudas! Join us for a swingin' patio soiree: start the evening with a tasting of Segura Viudas Brut Rose, then enjoy 3 curated spritzy sippers, groove to a live swing band, and graze on a light summer spread designed to complement the bubbly. Don't miss this spirited evening of music, flavor and sparkling summer refreshment!

Puttin' on the Spritz

Roll into la dolce vita at Branca Midtown's Italian Disco Roller Party! Retro tunes by DJ Savy set the tone for a build-your-own Italian soda shop and other Suntory-sponsored Italian sips. Bring your skates, because we'll be rolling though The Grove and Parcel 5, turning downtown into our own open-air roller rink.

Branca Midtown

Italian Disco Roller Party

The champion musical event of RCR features Cut Me Up Genny ('00s emo covers) + The Demos (original indie rock). Doors at 7p, music at 8p. 21+ only.

Anthology

RCR Super Sounds

Get ready for a night dedicated entirely to the swizzle, featuring Angostura rums. Expect frothy, refreshing cocktails built for easy drinking and warm nights. Swizzling starts at 7p, followed by the debut of Zack Mikida and the Side-Swizzlers at 9p — a surf rock band that definitely, probably exists. Cool drinks, lively music, and tropical energy all night long. Come thirsty and settle in.

Swizzles Only: Part Deux

An evening of expertly curated cocktails and an exceptional pairing menu, where craft spirits and culinary artistry meet. Velvet Belly is proud to showcase the debut of an innovative (top secret 'til June 1!) new line from Fee Brothers, perfectly complemented by the bold character of Iron Smoke whiskeys.

Velvet Belly

Fee Bros x Iron Smoke Pairing Dinner

One of the world’s most illustrious and inventive cocktail bars is making the trip up the interstate from NYC to join your friends at Jack’s for a night of holy cocktail divinity. Rochester native Forrest Bowman-Green and company from NYC's Mace bar will be slinging drinks inspired by spices from the far corners of the globe.

Jack’s Extra Fancy

Up North Trip with NYC's Mace

Italo Disco at Flora - brought to you by Dalla Terra Italian martinis, limocello, and other beautiful italian spirits brought to you by Dalla Terra. Flora is hosting a night of lovely craft cocktails paired with nostalgic Italo music performed by local DJ, Will Paturzo. Enjoy cool and refreshing drinks made from Italian-produced spirits, a lit up disco ball, and a friendly dancefloor moving to synthy, upbeat tunes.Free entry!

Flora

Italo Disco at Flora

Step out of the glow of the screen and into a night where cinema comes alive! Join Rochester Cocktail Revival, the George Eastman Museum, and MovieJawn for a cinematic trivia experience at Radio Social to close out the opening night of the 10th Nitrate Picture Show. Come solo or with any number of friends (you'll be grouped into teams of 6-10) and dive into three lively rounds of movie trivia where every point brings you closer to trivia glory. Sip on themed craft cocktails as you journey through categories spanning film history, iconic actors, and even beloved big screen snacks. As the tension rises, only one team will claim the spotlight. It’s a night of film and friendly competition — so take your seat, raise a glass, and let the trivia roll! Begin assembling your team anytime after 9:30p, trivia begins at 10p. 21+ only. Sponsored by Suntory.

Radio Social

Nitrate Picture Show Movie Trivia

Cure is teaming up with Planteray Rum to throw a house party in every sense of the word. With DJ Delano on the decks, bass lines will meet broken lamps, couches will meet concrete, and swizzles will meet solo cups. Expect the lights to be low and the vibes to be high.

Maison Cure

6/4/26 - Thursday

This masterclass will be a deep dive into the 200-year history of the House of Angostura, as well as what makes Trinidadian rum so unique versus the rest of the category. The class will be led by Chief Mixologist, Chief Brand Educator, and Chief Global Brand Ambassador at the House of Angostura Raymond Edwards (responsible for resurrecting the Queens Park Swizzle) and taste through the entry-tier rums all the way to the long-age statements. MEET THE SPEAKER: Raymond, once a professional footballer before becoming a bartender, strongly believes in the potential of the distillery – the only one of its kind in Trinidad and Tobago. Raymond’s role is to have that history, story and impressive product array, play in the minds of customers around the world – through the central role of the House of Angostura® Ambassadors.

The Cocktail Lab

Angostura Rum Masterclass with Raymond Edwards

Join us outside Bevy in 'The Coop’ for a casual afternoon of vibrant cocktails featuring Method Vermouth and a la carte dishes inspired by memory and inherited flavor from Chef Liyam’s childhood — from slow-cooked comfort food and late-night market spices to fresh herbs and family-style warmth.

Built From Memory

All aboard!Join us on the patio as we celebrate five years of Velvet Belly with a dockside party inspired by yacht club culture, in partnership with Verità Italian Vodka.From 4-8p, kick things off with Euro summer DJ beats, ice-cold martinis, and seafood on ice — oysters, clams, and coastal bites served dockside as the sun sets.Start the night with our dockside happy hour:$5 mini martinis, coastal Bites, $5 birthday sundaes.Sun, seafood, music, and a little sea-level indulgence, this is how we celebrate five.

Yacht Club: 5 Year Anniversary Dockside Party

Celebrate Do Good & Bootlegger Spirits, made in nearby Roscoe, NY! This group of distillers operates out of the oldest New York State Distillery and produces spirits that form some of the best classic and modern cocktails that we're proud to show off! Listen to industry experts tell the story of this beautiful brand and try both our classics and future menu items made with these phenomenal spirits.

Be Good and Do Good

Get ready to shake things up at the Battle Rattle Parking Lot Invitational, a high-energy outdoor experience where bold gin meets big-time play. Compete in oversized classics like giant Jenga or tournament-style yard games, rotating through brackets in a friendly, but spirited showdown. As the tournament heats up, top teams will face off for ultimate bragging rights and memorable prizes. It’s simple: sip, play, and let the good times rattle.

Who Sank My Battle Shots: Battle Rattle Invitational

Made by hand and heart, Tequila Ocho is crafted with the utmost care and passion from just three ingredients: blue weber agave, water and natural airborne yeast. Our bar team will showcase inspired tequila cocktails, crafted with care, alongside a 5-course menu from the Good Luck kitchen.

A Mano Y Corazon: A Tequila Ocho Cocktail Dinner

Join us in making whiskey a little bit more accessible! Spirits aren’t limited to certain cocktail categories, so we want you to come hang and try a variety of whiskey bevs featuring Redemption (spirit-forward, tiki, juicy, experimental, maybe some snacks). Seriously, there’s something for everyone. Stick around and play a hand of cards with friends or strangers, or even challenge your bartender for a prize.

Leonore's

Whiskey for Everyone: What's Your Deal?

I ♡ 585 celebrates everything we love about our city. We’re teaming up with Woodlawn Distilling to create a cocktail menu inspired by the flavors, people, and spirit of the 585. Expect a lineup highlighting unique Woodlawn spirits alongside locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. If you’ve got love for Rochester like we do, raise a glass and celebrate the place we call home.

I ♡ 585

Step into the electrifying atmosphere of Studio Lounge's Casino Night, where the thrill of gambling meets the elegance of upscale entertainment. Enjoy classic casino games with $1000 in play chips and sip expertly crafted cocktails using spirits from a range of RCR Backbar spirits. Prizes for the chip leaders will be announced at the end, adding an extra touch of sophistication to an unforgettable night of high-stakes fun and glamour! FREE entry, $25 ticket required for games + tastings.

Studio Lounge

Casino Night

In collaboration with Pinhook Whiskey, RCR is hosting a First Friday installation featuring artist and designer Justyn Ianucci. Justyn has created many fantastic RCR posters and art pieces over the years, and Martine will transform into his personal gallery for the night. Check out art, drink whiskey cocktails, and enjoy some late night tunes with Rochester hero DJ Chreath!

Pinhook Poster Show

A Bond-inspired evening at The Alexander... featuring Drumshanbo Gin botanical cocktails with the elegance of 007 in mind. Sophisticated decor, iconic Bond films,and elevated fare allow you to immerse yourself in the timeless world of 007. Try your luck in the Casino Royale room, complete with roulette & Blackjack tables for a chance to enter a raffle to win Swan Family merch and dining gift cards. Finer dress is encouraged.

The Alexander

Shaken, Not Stirred

The year is 1913, and the Rochester Public Market has just opened to the residents of this fair city. Eastman Kodak, Western Union, Frederick Douglass and Susan B. Anthony have placed Rochester on the national map. A great flood has swept the streets. The garment district is booming. Newspaperman Frank Gannett reports on the current headlines and well-known visitors to the city's popular fruit and vegetable stands; watch and listen closely as stories both on (and off) the record are revealed. Rochester-based performance company Cat + The Coyote brings whimsy and wonder to RCR with this immersive historical interpretation. Move through narrative scenes in several different locations throughout the Rochester Public Market while you sip craft cocktails from the crews at Bitter Honey, Ziggy’s, Cure and Rumble + Stir. Vintage and/or black attire is preferred; wear functional shoes as the show is a progressive performance on the Public Market grounds. 21+ over. 7:45p arrival for 8p show | 8:45p arrival for 9p show $55 ticket includes immersive theatre performance + three elixirs. (Additional cocktails will be available for purchase at the end of the show.) Sponsored by Heaven Hill.

City of Rochester Rochester Public Market

Young Lioness of the West: An Immersive Cocktail Experience

They’re backkkkk, and the posse is more insane than ever. Throw on your Zubaz pants and watch Travis Tober and his army of bar mercenaries from across the globe sling some Lalo-laced creations 9p to 2a. Prepare the confetti cannons, this is going to be a sh*tshow you don't want to miss.

Nickel City and Friends Vol. 3

Spill some salt, walk under a ladder, garnish that martini with two olives. It's Friday of the 13th RCR, what could go wrong? Test your bad luck at Good Luck with tarot card readings, flash tattoos from @inkedbyliy, DJ Delano, and Angostura Rum cocktails.

A Bad Luck Party

Late night jams led by the New Dawn Jazz Trio, featuring cocktail specials and late night banh mi.

Notes La Nuit

6/5/26 - Friday

Grab your first sip of RCR with us before the rest of the city wakes up at a special early morning edition of Coffee Party Roc. Coffee, cocktails, DJs spinning, and the Saturday energy that sets the tone for a full weekend of cocktail culture across the city. No ticket needed — just pull up.

AM:FM Coffee Cocktails Vinyl

Coffee Party Roc

Taste through more than 30 craft spirits — including national and New York State distillers — the toolkit of the RCR bartenders. Entry includes samples of up to 16 spirits. A brunch menu and cash bar featuring drink specials will be available at Bar Bantam in the lobby of The Metropolitan. $15 online, $20 at the door, 21+ only.

Bar Bantam

Spirit Tasting Spectacular

Take care of your physical AND mental health at Branca Midtown's annual RCR Recharge!! Featuring a 1 hour yoga class with Jason Stotz on Parcel 5, followed by Tito's beverages and other light refreshments available for purchase on the patio at Branca Midtown. This year, Operation Freedom Ride will be bringing puppies to join us on the patio! Psssst... the first 10 guests to arrive will receive a Tito's goodie bag!

RCR Recharge

Cocktails are a particularly challenging thing to write history about: the people who cared about when things happened and who made them happen didn't much care about writing that down, and the history that did make it into print, there was no real way of checking what was accurate and what was horseshit. On top of that, that history was often brand-driven and covered only one or another part of the story, or written by people more interested in telling a colorful story that in coming at some version of the truth. That means that to put together the "Comic Book History of the Cocktail," required author David Wondrich going back to original sources and trying to stitch them together into a story that is concise, colorful and focused enough to be entertaining, without betraying the people who actually invented, popularized and served the drinks. This anecdotal talk will run through the challenges and highlight the rewards to be found in digging into this odd branch of history. Ticket includes seminar, meet and greet, and a cocktail. 21+ only. Books will be available for purchase. 

True Fiction: Making Cocktail History Comicable

Who says you need a game to throw a tailgate? Join us at The Richmond for an all-day indoor-outdoor tailgate party built for summer. We’re teaming up with Breuckelen Distilling to keep the drinks flowing with a lineup of crushable cocktails, from citrusy gin tallboys to easy-drinking whiskey classics. Expect a full spread of tailgate favorites served up all day, DJs on the patio from afternoon into the night, plus games, good company, and everything you love about a parking lot party… just without the parking lot. No tickets, no kickoff, just show up and stay awhile.

The Richmond

Tallboys & Touchdowns (Without the Game)

Join Ziggy's for “Gym Class Heroes," a high-energy night featuring cocktails with Dos Maderas Rums and Tequila Bribón. There will be an indoor dodgeball tournament happening right inside the bar, so throw on your best gym attire, rally your team, and get ready for a chaotic, cocktail-fueled night unlike anything else at RCR. Sweatbands encouraged. Dodgeballs inevitable.

Gym Class Heroes

Hear ye, hear ye! Come one, come all to celebrate the Renaissance (both cocktail and faire) at the Daily! Join our merry band as we pour libations, sing with the minstrels, concoct potions, attempt games of skill, don costumes, role play, and cheer to celebrate the guild of mixologists!

Ren Faire 

Indulge in a rich selection of fat-washed cocktails perfectly paired with a menu of smoked and roasted meats and fare. Available in the Good Luck dining room and at the bar, these specials will be offered alongside our dinner menu for one night only. Book a reservation to secure your table.

Fee Brothers Fatty Feast

Celebrating the traditional French Catalan boar roast, we'll dine al fresco in the Good Luck Garden enjoying cocktails, aperitifs, and wine. The Good Luck culinary team will prepare a whole boar, slow-roasted over an open fire, and serve it alongside a feast of family-style sides. Enjoy a selection of beverages from Haus Alpenz, including cocktails with Hayman's Gin and Byrrh Grand Quinquina: an elixir of red wine and spices.

Good Luck Boar Roast & Cocktail Feast

A big night for DJ lovers in Rochester... Martine x Flora is a night you won't want to miss. Start with an Evil Bean Espresso Martini so you have the energy to bop back and forth from Martine to Flora all night! A big DJ lineup will be revealed at both spots, plus a super special RCR t-shirt drop. (First-come, first-served!) *$5 cover @ Flora*

SUPERSONIK: FLORA x MARTINE

We’re throwing it back to a real '90s kickback party in the Grove between Branca and Patron Saint — firepits going, Tito's drinks in hand, music up, and no real plan except having a good time. Jell-O shots passed around, spiked huggie drinks, and other 90s throwback sips and bites. DJ Pepi on the throwbacks to keep the party going all night. Wear your best 90s attire and bring your people for good drinks, good music, and good vibes. The kind of night you’ll be happy you didn’t miss.

90s Grove Kickback

American Metal is a custom hotrod and motorcycle shop obsessed with craftsmanship — they pour that same attention to detail and craft into a unique whiskey brand, and they'll be sharing it at Bad Ending as part of RCR. Rochester's own Painless Painless headlines the night, with no-bullshit garage rock and local punk veterans Leaking Head and Blue Envy opening with energy that shows Monroe Ave. and American Metal Whiskey goes harder than the rest. Food till 1a, flash tattoos with @inkedbyliy, giveaways, no cover, 21+ only.

Bar Bad Ending

Full Throttle

RCR has officially gone West Coast. Erick Castro-Diaz, Mr. Bartender-at-Large and the man behind San Diego’s critically-acclaimed Raised by Wolves and Gilly’s House of Cocktails is bringing down the house on Rochester Cocktail Revival’s final night. Party starts at 10pm EST and goes ’til the Folks at Lost Irish run out of layback shots to pour.

2026 Schedule of Events

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