Fire & Ice drink competition set Jan. 16

The Fire & Ice drink competition will be hosted from 1 to 3 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 16, at Mango’s in downtown Bethany Beach. VIP ticket holders will have early access at 12 p.m., including the opportunity to view each bartender’s presentation. All guests will be able to try a tasting from each of the bartenders and enjoy lite fare, live DJ tunes and incredible ocean views.

Up to 15 talented bartenders from local restaurants will compete head-to-head with their best Into the Wild cocktails.

This ticketed event benefits Beebe Healthcare’s South Coastal Emergency Department & Cancer Center.

New this year, bartenders will select their chosen base of tequila, vodka or whiskey to compete for one of three best of the base awards. Ticket holders will partake in selecting the grand prize people’s choice award by casting votes for their favorite drink, alongside a stellar panel of judges. Tickets are on sale now and are expected to sell out quickly, as a limited quantity is available.

“We are excited about the growth of this event, and the passion and creativity our participating bartenders continue to bring each year,” said Alyssa Weaver, events manager at the Bethany-Fenwick Area Chamber of Commerce. “The new twists to the competition, in addition to the Into the Wild theme, bring something fresh to an event that participants, staff and guests all look forward to each year.”

Those who cannot attend the drink competition or want another tasting of the cocktails crafted during the competition can take part in the Fire & Ice Tasting Tour during the Fire & Ice Festival, set for Friday to Sunday, Jan. 26 to 28. Patrons can purchase a tasting card that will be honored throughout the festival, allowing visitors to enjoy a taste of the Fire & Ice drink created by each participating restaurant, along with specials and grab-n-go menu items. Tickets for the tasting tour are available for purchase online.

Confirmed competing businesses include: Beach Liquors, Bethany Blues, Good Earth, Hooked Up, Mango’s, Mio Fratello Italian Steakhouse, Off the Hook, The Cottage Café, The Salted Rim Margarita Bar & Grille, Via Sophia by the Sea, and Vista Rooftop.

While patrons venture through the tasting tour, they may also explore the spectacular ice sculptures showcased at each restaurant, created by the artists at The Ice God. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to fireandicede.com or call 302-539-2100.