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Event will crown official 2026 Orange Drop drink
REDLANDS, Calif. — Local bartenders will compete to craft the city’s next signature drink at the Redlands Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Cocktail & Mocktail Competition, set for Thursday, Aug. 21 at the Mitten Building.
Running from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., the public tasting event invites attendees to sample inventive beverages from bartenders representing Redlands bars and restaurants. Each participant is tasked with creating a drink—alcoholic or alcohol-free—that evokes the spirit of Redlands. The winning entry will be named the official 2026 Orange Drop Cocktail.
Twelve local establishments are slated to compete:
Each competitor is encouraged to decorate their tasting station to reflect the personality of their venue and cocktail. If a restaurant enters two bartenders, one must present a mocktail to ensure a diverse sampling experience.
Tickets include access to all tastings, light snacks, and the chance to cast a vote for the People’s Choice winner. Admission is limited to guests 21 and older.
While the People’s Choice vote is determined by attendees, a panel of seasoned hospitality professionals will judge the entries and select the official 2026 Orange Drop cocktail. This year’s judges, Damian Windsor, Naomi Schimek, and Alex Perkins, bring decades of experience in bar management, beverage development, and bartender advocacy.
Read full judge bios here: www.communityforwardredlands.com/cocktail-competition-2025-judges/
Winners will be announced at 7 p.m., with prizes awarded and bragging rights secured.
For more information or to register, visit the Redlands Chamber of Commerce website.
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