Shaken, stirred, and ready to compete for the Mountain Mixer Cocktail Contest

Park City area bartenders are being called to create this year's best cocktail, decided by the community. Photo: Park City Area Restaurant Association.

PARK CITY, Utah — Bartenders and mixologists across Park City are invited to shake things up as entries officially open for the newly reimagined Mountain Mixer Park City Cocktail Contest, presented by the Park City Area Restaurant Association (PCARA). Submissions are being accepted now through June 30, with the competition culminating in a high-energy, in-person showdown this August.

“After 11 successful years in its online format, we’re excited to bring the Cocktail Contest back in person so we can gather to raise our glasses and toast the immense creativity of our cocktail community,” said Ginger Wicks, Executive Director of PCARA. “The live competition will bring a renewed energy to the contest, giving our mixologists the well-deserved spotlight.”

Originally launched over a decade ago as a live event, the Park City Cocktail Contest shifted online in recent years to reach a broader audience. Now, the event is returning to the stage under its new name—Mountain Mixer Park City—restoring the electric atmosphere of a live audience and giving bartenders a chance to impress with their style, skill, and signature flavors.

To enter, bartenders must submit their original cocktail creations by filling out the entry form at mountainmixerpc.com.

Entries will be judged in two stages. First, a panel of local experts will evaluate each submission based on the written recipe and concept. Throughout July, judges will also visit participating bars and restaurants to sample the featured drinks in person. From these evaluations, ten finalists will be selected to compete at the live Mountain Mixer Park City event on August 21.

The final round will be a lively, ticketed evening featuring entertainment, delicious bites, and a showcase of Park City’s top cocktail talent. Both the panel of internationally-recognized judges and attending guests will cast their votes to crown the winner. The top mixologist will receive a $1,000 cash prize and a sponsor gift basket.

Park City’s cocktail culture is known for pushing boundaries—and with the return of a live audience and high-stakes judging, this summer’s Mountain Mixer Park City promises to stir up something unforgettable.

To learn more or to submit your entry, visit www.parkcityrestaurants.com.