Lagos Cocktail Week Returns

Ferdinand Ekechukwu

One of Lagos most anticipated annual events – the Lagos Cocktail Week – is set to return for its 2023 fiesta, promising an extraordinary culinary journey with an all-new exciting theme and elevated experience for connoisseurs, revelers and enthusiasts alike. Discussing the ninth edition in detail, the founder of Lagos Cocktail Week, Lara Rawa, said the theme for this year’s event is “Sip, Savor and Celebrate,” starting on the 13th to 20th October, 2023.

The ultimate showdown will take place at the bustling Cocktail Village, culminating in the grand finals on October 20th at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Lagos. The distinguished Cocktail Village, a unique highlight of the event, is scheduled for October 19th-20th at the Balmoral event center. Lara explained that the theme “Sip, Savor and Celebrate,” was chosen for this year’s Lagos Cocktail Week to encapsulate the essence of the week-long event.

She emphasised that it’s about indulging in the rich flavors of cocktails, savoring the experience, and ultimately celebrating the art of mixology and the vibrant cocktail culture in Lagos.  “This theme aims to create a memorable and enjoyable atmosphere for attendees, encouraging them to fully immerse themselves in the world of cocktails and appreciate the craftsmanship behind them.”

With the Lagos Cocktail Week social media handles already buzzing with updates and ticketing details. The festivities began on October 4th with Africa’s premier Bartender Competition, featuring bartenders from acclaimed Nigerian venues competing in diverse challenges to display their individual style, creativity, and panache. Following this, the event continues with lively semifinals at Wheatbaker Hotel in Ikoyi, where top mixologists would go head-to-head.

The highlight of the culinary festival will showcase complimentary cocktail sampling, live entertainment and music, interactive games and challenges, thrilling grand finale bar battle competition, which will ensure discounted cocktails at partner bars and restaurants from the October 13th to 20th. So, it’s of good offer for participants to secure a place at this epic celebration of flavor, music, and competition.

“Join us for a week of unforgettable experiences at Lagos Cocktail Week 2023. Elevate your evenings, savor exceptional cocktails, and celebrate the art of mixology in style,” Lara added. Launched in 2014, Lagos Cocktail  Week was founded with the aim of highlighting the pinnacle of Nigeria’s cocktail culture. Its overarching objective is to solidify the recognition of the cocktail industry as a vital component of the Nigerian beverage sector.

This event can be aptly characterized as a convergence of cocktail enthusiasts, providing a platform for both beverage brands and devotees of exceptional cocktails and mocktails to explore a diverse range of flavors. Supported By Lagos State Ministry  of  Tourism, Arts & Cultural, Eventi Cocktails, Balmoral Events, Events Design Studio, Lagos Cocktail Week is sponsored by Sterling Bank, Pernod Ricard, Diageo, Nigerian Breweries, Jack Daniels, Barcadi Nigeria, Nestle Water, and Ekulo Group.