The longest-running cocktail event in the Southwest, Arizona Cocktail Weekend, is returning to the greater Phoenix area for its 14th year, kicking off on February 27 and running through March 2, 2026.

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The expanded schedule will boast a variety of events, including exclusive tastings, educational seminars, cocktail-paired dinners, expert-led seminars and can’t-miss cocktail events. The weekend also features three signature events: The Cocktail Carnival, Top Bars and Last Slinger Standing.

Events will take place across multiple venues, including hotels and cocktail bars throughout the Valley, with most events centered in Downtown Phoenix.

Cocktail Carnival kicks off the weekend

The weekend begins with The Cocktail Carnival on Saturday, February 28, at the newly renovated Arizona Center, hosted in partnership with Downtown Phoenix, Inc.

Cocktail Carnival is a high-energy blend of brand showcases, brand activation-driven entertainment, and immersive experiences. Now shifted to a daytime format, the vibrant and whimsical event will feature innovative displays, interactive booths, and experiences designed to captivate and inspire. Each ticket includes access to more than 30 expertly crafted cocktail samples.

Top Bars brings the world’s best cocktails to Phoenix

Following the Carnival, Top Bars returns on Sunday, March 1, at Warehouse 215.

This fan-favorite cocktail tasting event welcomes more than 40 of the world’s top cocktail bars as pop-ups in Downtown Phoenix, each serving their most popular signature cocktails. Participating bars travel from destinations including London, Japan, and Hong Kong.

Previous Top Bars participants have included renowned establishments such as Trick Dog from San Francisco, Flying Dutchman from Amsterdam, Double Chicken Please from New York City, Panda & Sons from Edinburgh, Scotland, along with standout bars from across Arizona, the U.S., and around the globe.

Last Slinger Standing crowns Arizona’s top mixologist

The weekend concludes on Monday, March 2, with The Last Slinger Standing competition at Republic National Distilling Company event space.

This high-energy bartending competition features 16 of Arizona’s top mixologists facing off in head-to-head battles. Each round introduces secret ingredients judged by a panel of internationally recognized cocktail experts. The competition continues until one finalist remains to take home the 2026 Last Slinger Standing trophy.

Highlighting cocktail talent across Arizona

For the third consecutive year, Arizona Cocktail Weekend will spotlight venues and bars from across the state to celebrate Arizona’s cocktail craftsmanship. Participating bars and restaurants will feature spirits from brand sponsors, and sign-up is free for all Arizona venues.

Tickets and event details

Tickets for Arizona Cocktail Weekend start at $50, plus service fees, depending on the event and date of purchase.

The 14th Annual Arizona Cocktail Weekend runs from February 27 through March 3, 2026, in downtown Phoenix and beyond. The four-day celebration includes tastings from global bar pop-ups, a cocktail carnival, educational seminars, cocktail competitions, and more.

To learn more or purchase tickets, visit arizonacocktailweekend.com.