The Central West End is preparing for another massive summer street party. On Saturday, June 13, the neighborhood’s ninth annual Central West End Cocktail Party will once again transform the area into an open-air celebration packed with cocktails, live music and roaming entertainment.
Inspired by what many consider the first cocktail party, a legendary 1917 gathering hosted by Mrs. Julius S. Walsh Jr. at her Lindell Boulevard home, the annual event has evolved into one of the neighborhood’s signature summer traditions. Thousands are expected to attend this year’s festivities, which run from 5 to 10 p.m.
The evening’s biggest draw may once again be the lively cocktail competition, where some of the region’s top bartenders will face off with inventive drinks and plenty of flair. Sauce Magazine Executive Editor Lauren Healey will return as a judge for the competition this year.
Beyond the cocktails, the event will feature live performances from The Dhoruba Collective, DJ Mahf and Big Mike & the Blue City All Stars featuring Renee Smith. Guests can also expect aerial performers, fire dancers, unicyclists and a photo booth scattered throughout the festivities, giving the evening a slightly surreal, carnival-after-dark energy.
Food and drinks from participating Central West End businesses including Brennan’s, Saigon Cafe, Up-Down and Edera Italian Eatery will be available for purchase throughout the night.
“This fun-filled event is a celebration of the CWE’s history and its unique array of neighborhood establishments,” said Kate Haher, executive director of the CWE Business Community Improvement District.
This article appears in June 2026.
