News Summary
The Thompson Atlanta Buckhead hotel will welcome top regional bartenders from around the country as they compete for the title of U.S. Bartender of the Year. Scheduled for May 18 to 20, this prestigious event promises to celebrate bartending skills and creativity with a citywide Cocktail Festival. Competitors will face several challenges that showcase their mixing abilities and innovative cocktail creations. This exciting competition not only highlights the talent within the bartending community but also fosters mentorship and growth among participants.
Atlanta to Host U.S. Bartender of the Year Finals in 2025
The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) will host the World Class U.S. Finals from May 18 to 20, 2025, at the Thompson Atlanta Buckhead hotel in Atlanta, Georgia. This prestigious event will showcase 30 top regional bartenders from across the country as they compete for the coveted title of U.S. Bartender of the Year.
The upcoming competition is set to be not only a test of skill but also a celebration of the bartending craft, with the winner earning the opportunity to represent the U.S. at the World Class Global Finals in Toronto that August. Attendees aged 21 and over can enjoy curated cocktails and light bites during the event, which promises to highlight the creativity and prowess of the nation’s finest bartenders.
Competition Details
The talented competitors will engage in a variety of challenging rounds, each designed to test their mixing skills and innovation. Participants must prepare cocktails that pair with Southern cuisine, craft unique tequila-based drinks, and complete a “speed round” challenge where they will conceptualize a bar and produce drinks within time limits.
This year’s competition presents a diverse cohort of bartenders, including notable figures such as Steve Yang from Richmond, who has been preparing for six months, as well as competitors Jon Schott from Washington D.C. and Clay Bennett from Norfolk. Throughout the competition, there is a strong emphasis on camaraderie among the participants, promoting mentorship, education, and professional growth within the bartending community.
Citywide Cocktail Festival
In conjunction with the finals, Atlanta will host a citywide Cocktail Festival featuring various bars and restaurants participating in the celebration of mixology. This festival aims to highlight the local beverage scene and engage the community, enhancing the overall experience for both competitors and attendees.
Visitors can find detailed schedules and more information about the event at the dedicated website, ensuring they stay informed about the many activities planned around the finals.
Background on the Competition
The World Class U.S. Finals is a part of a larger global competition designed to elevate the standards of bartending. The USBG aims to foster a sense of community among bartenders, focusing on best practices and encouraging skill development. The significance of practice and preparation is paramount for success in this competitive environment, with participants dedicating extensive time and effort to hone their skills before the event.
As the bartending industry continues to evolve, events like the World Class U.S. Finals not only showcase talent and skill but also inspire new generations of bartenders to push the boundaries of the profession. The 2025 finals promise to be an engaging and exciting experience for both competitors and spectators alike, celebrating the art and craft of bartending at its highest level.
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Additional Resources
- Discover Atlanta: USBG Presents World Class
- AJC: Atlanta to Host National Bartending Competition
- Richmond Magazine: Steve Yang USBG World Class 2025
- Google Search: U.S. Bartender of the Year
- Rough Draft Atlanta: Atlanta May 2025 Food & Dining Events
- Wikipedia: Bartending
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
ATLANTA STAFF WRITER The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
