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The Central West End will once again channel its storied past with the return of the annual Central West End Cocktail Party from 5 to 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 14. The free, open-to-the-public event honors what is widely believed to be the first cocktail party, a 1917 gathering hosted by Mrs. Julius S. Walsh Jr. at her Lindell Boulevard home.
Now in its eighth year, the celebration is expected to draw thousands for an evening of live music, food, cocktails and community. Highlights include a spirited cocktail competition featuring top St. Louis bartenders and judged by Sauce Magazine executive editor Lauren Healey, food and drink for purchase from CWE favorites like Maryland House, El Burro Loco, Edera and Saigon Café, plus aerialists, fire performers, dancing, cotton candy and more.
“This event is a tribute to the spirit and diversity of the Central West End,” said Kate Haher, executive director of the CWE Business Community Improvement District. “It’s a great way to showcase our neighborhood and bring people together.”
Live entertainment will feature sets by The Playadors, The Mighty Pines, Hard Bop Messengers and Ish Ensemble, along with pop-up performances throughout the evening.
This year’s event also supports a good cause, $1 from every signature cocktail sold will be donated to Operation Food Search to assist with tornado relief efforts. QR codes for additional donations will be available throughout the event.
“While we celebrate the Central West End’s spirit and diversity, this year’s event is also about supporting our neighbors who continue to recover in the wake of the tornado,” Haher said. “We’re thrilled to partner with Operation Food Search to make a tangible impact while enjoying a fantastic evening of drinks, music and fun.”
Kristen Wild, president and CEO of Operation Food Search, also chimed in. “We are excited to team up with the CWE Cocktail Party to respond to tornado relief in St. Louis,” she said. “We are grateful to be included in this huge community event. The money will go directly to providing food and personal care items to people in St. Louis who have suffered due to the tornado.”
Scroll through the slideshow below for photos of last year’s event. For more details and the live music schedule, visit cwecocktailparty.com.
