Golden Shaker Bartender Competition

Sunday, May 31st, 2026  |  12pm to 4pm

Join us at the Elora Distilling Company for our third annual Golden Shaker Bartender Competition! Experience the perfect blend of artistry and refined local spirits at our distillery in the heart of Elora, as the region's finest mixologists compete for the coveted Elora Distilling Company Golden Shaker award!

Audience members will enjoy a welcome cocktail as we show off our own bartending skills, along with plenty of samples of our handcrafted spirits and two tokens to exchange for cocktails made with competitor recipes, so you can be your own judge. 

Only $30 for three full cocktails, spirit samples, and a prime patio spot to watch and learn from the best! Reserve your spot today and prepare to be dazzled by the talent on display, and taste some of the best local flavours our region has to offer. 

Competition starts at 1pm, with two Elora Distilling Company categories (whiskey/rum, and vodka/gin) before the winners go head to head in a black box final at 3:30pm to determine who takes home the grand prize!

Cash Prizes:

• Best in Show Golden Shaker: $1,000
• Best of Spirit Category (two winners): $200
• Audience Choice: $200

Competition Details:

• Cocktails must offer a creative twist on a recipe from "Global Grand Hotels" (inspired by destination lobby bars around the globe)
• Recipes must be original creations by the competitor.
• At least one base spirit and one liqueur must be chosen from any Elora Distilling Company Product (minimum of 1 oz). 
• Competitors may utilize the complete range of Elora Distilling Company products (spirits, tonics, bitters, syrups, etc.). 
• Only one non-Elora Distilling Company alcoholic product may be included per cocktail.
• A maximum of two homemade ingredients (excluding garnishes) is permitted.
• There is no limit on the total number of ingredients for each cocktail.
• Elora Distilling Company will supply a basic bar pantry of ingredients, while any additional items outside this pantry are the responsibility of the entrant.
• A valid Smart Serve certificate is required for all entrants.

Click here to register as a competitor! Can't wait to see your skills!