Last year's debut of the first Rooftop event showcased a fashion runway show on the top floor of a downtown parking ramp. It was such a smashing success that it is hard to imagine it's almost been a year since the last one. And yet, here we are, on the verge of the second rooftop series event, Rooftop Cocktail.
For the latest installment, Crystal Hilliard, founder of To The Top Media, will focus on a cocktail competition. Guests will also view the art on display at the UICA, and, of course, the event contains a nod to our local fashion resources.
"When I started this event series, I wanted to created an annual opportunity to not only showcase the talents and resources of our region," says Hilliard, "but I wanted to be able to lift up the creative class of our city through an event that truly is at the top. And how much higher can you go than the rooftop?"
The competing bartenders have been hand-selected by Hilliard from these fine area establishments: Bar Divani, Crush/Eve, Pyramid Scheme, Reserve Wine and Food, and Louie’s Bar & Rocket Lounge. Videos featuring the competing bartenders can be seen on Rooftop Cocktail's
site.
Attendees will vote via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to decide the Best Rooftop Cocktail. (If you want to cast three votes with one post, be sure to use the Instagram platform and select your Facebook and Twitter accounts and tag @rooftopcocktail, plus #NameOfBar.)
In addition, there will be a pop-up shop in the black box area of the UICA featuring the boutique brands of our city: Brockfolio, Royal Flyte, The Mitten State, All City Kicks, Iconoclasp, Sydney's Boutique, Humanity Boutique, Cheeky Strut, Gina's Boutique, Sight Optical Boutique, Rosa's Closet, and Head Over Heels.
CitySen Lounge and McKay's Downtown will provide complimentary appetizers. Signature cocktails are made with New Holland Artisan Spirits and will be $6 each.
A portion of sales benefits one of my favorite charities, the Creative Youth Center, which focuses on improving our area student's journalism skills.
Immediately after the event, guests are invited to visit Bar Divani for the official after-party.
Admission: $30. (VIP level tickets sold out a week ago.)