The Bloody Mary Festival is marking its 13th year with a six-city national tour. The tour returns to New York City on March 21, marking its eighth year in Brooklyn. The event will be held at BkLoft26 and is expected to attract more than 1,000 attendees.
Brooklyn Welcomes Back the Bloody Mary Festival on March 21
The Bloody Mary Festival is a touring event where local bars, restaurants, and mix brands compete to make the best Bloody Mary in their city. In 2026, it marks its 13th year with stops in six U.S. cities: New York City, Austin, Milwaukee, Portland, Twin Cities, and Denver.
The cocktail brunch fest, also known as ‘a cocktail that doubles as a meal,’ is set to make a comeback in Brooklyn, New York City, on March 21 at BkLoft26.
Visitors and festival attendees will sample drinks from 15 New York City bars, restaurants, and bottled mix companies. Each place will be representing its personal take on the classic brunch beverage.
From traditional recipes to versions topped with elaborate garnishes, the event highlights the creativity and variety behind the drink.
The 2026 event is expected to run from 11 am to 2 pm for VIP guests. Meanwhile, for the general admission event starts from 11:45 am to 2 pm. Ticket prices start at $59.74 and are available online.
Founded by Evan Weiss and his wife, Yunna, the festival started its journey in Brooklyn.
In a PR Newswire report, Evan Weiss said the event offers guests the opportunity to explore how different and inventive the cocktails can be, all in one place.
Fans to Vote for NYC’s Best Bloody Mary
Attendees will be able to taste each Bloody Mary and vote for their favorite to determine the “People’s Choice Award” for Best Bloody Mary in NYC. A panel of judges will also select winners for “Best Bloody Mary in NYC” and “Best Garnish.”
Participating bars and restaurants often use house-infused vodkas, specialty spice blends, and standout garnishes to set their drinks apart.
Talking about the significance of the Bloody Mary, Evan Weiss shared, “The Bloody Mary is the quintessential NYC drink because it mirrors life in the city. No two recipes are the same, and when you order one, you never really know what you’re going to get. That unpredictability is what makes it special, just like New York.”
In addition to cocktail tastings, guests will be able to sample products from several food and beverage brands. Some of the brands are Fort Hamilton Distillery, Bronx Bull Bourbon, and Reif Rum, among others.
Over the years, the Bloody Mary Festival has built a reputation as both a competition and a celebration of local hospitality.
