21 Celebrities Who Bartend

Bartending started as far back as ancient Greek, Egyptian, and Roman times.

That means a lot of humans have been making a lot of delicious cocktail elixirs for thousands of years. Both for fun as a hobby or as a way to make ends meet.

Even famed celebrities have dabbled in the craft of bartending. Mostly to pay the water bill before their big break, but other celebs come up with cocktails just for fun. Why? They think it’s a fun way to pass the time and a great way to entertain their friends and families.

So let’s see these 21 celebrities who were bartenders before they started winning Oscars. Later, we’ll meet a few more celebs who bartend just for fun.

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5 Best Types of Bars to Work

If you’re looking for a bar with free wifi to work on your laptop, you’ll want to keep searching! ‘Cause this post is all for bartenders. Do I have only bartenders here now? Good.

Now we can get started!

When I was first starting out as a bartender, I had so many questions. I constantly wondered what type of bar would be the best to work at. But I asked myself these questions over and over again:

Where can I make the most money?What bars have the best customers?

If you’re a beginning bartender and you’re wondering the same questions, you’re in the right place for two reasons.

That’s what this post is all about–the best types of bars to work at for new bartenders!Plus, Local Bartending School is here to help you every step of the way with their online course and job placement program! (More on this later, people!)

So, after working in the bar industry for nearly a decade and asking some of my fellow bartenders what’s up, I’ve created a list of the best bars to work at for beginning bartenders, based on money to be made and overall experience to be had.

Here are the types of bars we recommend for beginning bartenders!

1. Chain Restaurant Bar

Whenever you work at a chain restaurant, you’re typically involved in a robust training program. Chain establishments and franchises aim to have their food and service the same across all of their locations, from bartending to hosting. That’s why you go through so much training!

As a bartender who’s just starting out, this can be a great place to begin (other than bartending school!). You’ll learn how to make a multitude of drinks, ranging from basic call drinks, bloody mary’s, all the way to kiddy cocktails. You’ll also be serving food like BBQ wings and tacos and handing takeout orders, though!

The hours are typically flexible and the pay can be decent, but the people can be picky, demanding, and sometimes rude. Not to mention, depending on the state you live in, you might have to interact with a kiddo or two.

On the bright side, you’re typically tipped out by the service staff for making all their drinks!

A lot of bartenders have noted the best restaurants in the US to work at as a bartender are:

PF ChangsTGI Fridays

Texas Roadhouse

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A Bartender’s Guide to Glassware: Choosing the Right Glass for Each Drink

As new bartenders or bar owners, you might be tempted to throw on an old red Solo cup for every cocktail…please don’t!

As a bartender or bar owner, you know that presentation is key. Pouring your drinks into the wrong glass can quickly take away from your guest experience and make them feel like they’re not getting their money’s worth.

Here are the basics of glassware so you can be sure that you are using the correct glasses for each kind of drink.

Let’s take away any awkward moments where customers feel like they’re not with the professional bartender we know you are/can be! Pour drinks into the right glasses! Brush up on our crash course in glassware to get it just right.

Why Glassware Matters

As a new bartender, you might think the most important thing to get right is the recipe of your cocktails but when it comes to presentation subjectivity plays a large role.

But when new bartenders are learning about the plethora of glassware options out there, I hear a common question.

“It’s just a glass–why is it so important when you’re serving cocktails?”

If you’re serving specialty cocktails, remember that as a newbie you’re being judged on presentation first and foremost – and unfortunately for us newbies, proper glassware is what can make or break us.

Choosing the correct drinkware can help enhance and release the aromas your cocktail has to offer.

The size of the glass’s mouth plays a pivotal role in releasing aromas that excite taste buds and tantalize drinkers.

Plus, in order to maintain the drink at its intended temperature, you must use the correct type of glassware: take stemmed wine glasses, for example—not only does it look more aesthetically pleasing, but having a stem keeps those warm human hands down and away from the liquid! (Would zombies have all stemless ware? I’m truly curious…)

This way, the wine stays cool and maintains its naturally-intended flavor.

Keeping all these points in mind, glassware should not be taken lightly as it can definitely make or break your mixology masterpiece.

A Real-Life Bartender Story

I had been working at the upscale restaurant for a few months now, and so far it had been going pretty smoothly. We specialized in craft cocktails using fresh ingredients with unique glassware to match each drink. But I was about to have my first encounter with one of our more picky customers.

He walked up to the bar and asked for a Green Tea shot with tequila as a cocktail. I was taken aback– this wasn’t something we often made– but I went ahead and poured it into a coupe glass like usual. The customer seemed unimpressed though, complaining that he felt like “a bitch” drinking out of that type of glass. So I poured it again into a rocks glass instead, which he accepted grudgingly.

When he actually wanted a shot later on, however, things got even worse! All we had were these fancy stemmed shot glasses, which apparently weren’t good enough for him either! He started ranting about how ridiculous they looked and what kind of place served shots in such an unconventional manner? And all I could do was laugh nervously and explain that those were the only shot glasses we had available at the moment!

After his rant ended and he finally left the bar area, my coworkers all turned to me incredulously asking: “Does glassware really matter that much?!”

The moral of the story is, yes glassware matters. But to some, it really, really matters.

Tell Us! How often have you had a guest complain about the type of glassware you used for a cocktail?

First, Learn the Essentials

Coupe Glass

Coupe glasses are short stemmed glasses with a wide bowl at the top — think of it as an upside-down champagne flute. They are traditionally used to serve cocktails such as Martinis, Margaritas, and Manhattans. The wide brim allows aromas to develop in the drink while still keeping it cold, making this a great option for drinks served ‘up’ (without ice).

So if you’re after drinks with alluring scents yet aren’t one for serving lukewarm beverages (which by the way, you should not be!), go timelessly cool by opting for these classic glasses!

Not only do they look cool—they let your guest enjoy every last drop of your delicious concoction too!

The Collins Glass

The Collins glass is tall and skinny, perfect for those who like their drinks to be refreshing and light. This glass is typically used for drinks like gin and tonics, as well as cocktails like the Mojito.

Its signature cylinder shape helps keep drinks carbonated longer by creating less surface area. Perfect for classic cocktails like Tom Collins or John Collins, the versatile glasses range from 10-14 US fl oz.

The Highball Glass

The highball glass is also tall and skinny, but it is slightly wider than the Collins glass. This glass is typically used for drinks that are high in alcohol content, such as whiskey neat or on the rocks.

The highball glass is a bartender’s go-to for serving all sorts of cocktails, from scotch and soda to gin and tonics.

It typically measures 7 cm in diameter and 15 cm in height, able to contain 8 to 12 US fl oz of liquid. The highball glass is a unique item, standing taller than the old-fashioned lowball and shorter and wider than a Collins glass.

This versatile shape makes it suitable for serving many different drinks – long drinks like spritzers or whiskey sours and short drinks like a Cosmopolitan or Margarita.

No bar or restaurant can be without a good collection of highball glasses!

Rocks Glass

Commonly known as an old-fashioned tumbler or lowball glass, these small thick glasses typically hold 6–8 ounces of liquid. These glasses are perfect for serving spirits on their own — neat or over ice — as well as most whiskey-based cocktails such as an Old Fashioned or Manhattan.

Rocks and lowball glasses are bartender staples that have been used for centuries, originating from England in the late 18th or 19th century.

These wide-brim glasses usually contain between 6-10 US fl. oz, with a double old-fashioned glass featuring 12-16 US fl. oz. They are traditionally used to serve whisky neat or “on the rocks” as well as classic cocktails. The wide mouth and thick base allow you, as a mixologist, to use the muddler in order to mash the non-liquid ingredients of a cocktail prior to adding the other liquids into the mix.

This piece of essential glassware has come a long way over the years and continues to be used in many bars worldwide!

Snifters

Brandy snifters have wider rims that trap aromas and help to bring out more flavors in the spirit being sipped through its smaller opening at the top of the glass. Brandy snifters work best with Cognac and other aged spirits where taste is just as important as smell in appreciating its complexity and character.

This glass is used for brandy and other spirits that are meant to be sipped slowly

Flutes

Flutes have a longer stem than coupes which makes them easier to hold without warming up your champagne or sparkling wine too quickly with body heat from your hands. This long stem also serves another purpose; it’s designed to create bubbles when pouring into the flute which helps maintain carbonation levels making sure your guests can truly enjoy their bubbly drink!

Wine Glasses: Explained

The white wine glass is taller than it is wide, with a slightly tapered top. This glass is used for lighter-bodied white wines, such as Riesling and Pinot Grigio.

Red Wine Glass

The red wine glass is shorter than the white wine glass and has a wider bowl. This glass is used for fuller-bodied red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Balloon Wine Glasses

These large (typically 14-16 ounce) stemmed glasses feature a bulbous shape at the top that helps concentrate aromas while also allowing plenty of room for swirling around red wines before drinking them.

It’s important to fill these glasses no more than one-third full so that there is enough air left inside to allow those wonderful aromas to develop!

Pints

Another bartender staple, the pint glass is a versatile and popular form of drinkware.

It’s designed to hold between 16-20 ounces of liquid, making it an ideal vessel for beer and cider.

Perfectly suited for everyday use in pubs and restaurants, this glassware also remains a favorite at parties and other social gatherings.

Its unassuming appearance belies its versatility, allowing bartenders to maintain the look of their establishment while still serving traditional Guinness or locally made craft beers. Whether you’re stocking your new bar or hosting an event, having a pint glass is essential.

The classic British pint design features a heavy base which gives stability when balancing on surfaces like tabletops or bar counters.

These versatile vessels can be used for anything from beer pints to gin & tonics served along with plenty of ice & garnishes—plus don’t forget about those creamy creations like Pina Coladas or Mudslides!

The Old-Fashioned Glass

The old-fashioned glass was mentioned earlier, but here it is again!

Why? Because the old-fashioned glass is a bartender’s dream.

It is short, wide and features a heavy base, making it easy for bartenders to pour because of the stability during pouring.

This type of glassware is most often used for drinks that require ice – like an old fashioned, whiskey sour or Manhattan – but can also be used for martinis and other drinks.

With its versatility, low profile and classic look, this glass is sure to remain popular amongst both bartenders and drinkers alike for years to come.

The Sherry Glass

The sherry glass is small and wide, usually with a short stem. This glass is used for fortified wines, such as sherry, port, and Madeira.

The Yard Glass

There is no bartender head-turner quite like a bartender pouring a beer into a yard of ale.

Standing almost a yard tall and designed with an impressive bulb-shaped base followed by a widening shaft, the yard glass is revered for its bold design and also for being used in traditional pub games focused on drinking as quickly as possible.

Originating from 17th century England, this type of glassware was also be known as a “long glass”, “Cambridge yard” and an “ell glass”.

Its reputation has reached worldwide levels, where it is enjoyed in pubs around the world for both its aesthetics and grandeur.

The Chalice

The chalice is a large, goblet-like glass that is often used for ceremonial purposes. Chalices are said to date back to the Middle Ages, when they were used by monks and priests during religious ceremonies.

Master Your Glassware Crash Course and Become a Bartending Pro, with Local Bartending School’s Online Classes!

We want to make sure your customers only have pleasant experiences at the bar and avoid any awkward moments.

With that in mind, memorize our crash course in glassware, so you can be sure to avoid any missteps when pouring a drink.

Once you master it, you’ll make customers feel like they’re ready for an A-list kind of night out! Of course, if you need a refresher, or if you’re looking to take your bartending career to the next level, Local Bartending School has online classes available. It’s the perfect way to gain skills that will serve both yourself and your customers.

So, why not brush up on your bar knowledge today? After all, life is too short for mediocre glassware and drinks, right? Let’s get mixing!

The post A Bartender’s Guide to Glassware: Choosing the Right Glass for Each Drink first appeared on LBS Bartending School.

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Bar Lingo Dictionary

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Bar Tools 101

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Bartender Career Path: From Zero to Hero

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Bartender Interview Tutorial

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Bartender Life Lessons and Shocking Stories

Some people assume that bartenders’ jobs are all fun and games. And honestly, at times it’s fun as hell! Until poo starts getting thrown on the ceiling mid-shift. Yeah, it’s happened.

Today, you’ll hear firsthand some of the most shocking, outrageous, and downright disgusting stories from behind the bar. We’ve asked our team of industry veterans at Local Bartending School to share their weirdest, wildest stories. They’ve seen it all and they’re ready to spill the tea.

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Different Types of Drunks and How to Deal with Them

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Flair Bartending: What It Is & How to Do It

You might be wondering, “is flair bartending still a thing?” Or maybe you have no idea what it is.

Sure, if you were here for the Spice Girls generation you’ll know that the flair movement peaked in the nineties (hello, Coyote Ugly!), but yes!

These bar tricks are still around. They kinda just retreated back to the fringes, where the skill is still practiced by a dedicated group of passionate bartenders who like showmanship or just enjoy doing things in style (or they just want to be better than everyone else?).

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Full Bartender Calendar: 2024

Our professional team of bartending rockstars, masters, and gurus have teamed up to bring you a whole year of holidays to spark some creativity in your cocktail choices.

And as if we needed any other reason to make some deliciously festive cocktails, here are 365 ideas for you to bring the crowd to your bartop all year long.

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January February March April May June July August September October November December

A Bartender’s Calendar: January 2024

It’s a new year, bar friends. You made it through the holiday season slanging winter cocktails to jolly bar-goers all season long. And the opposite of Jon Snow’s warning, winter is almost over. We can only hope the groundhog sees his shadow in February so we can move on to patio season and fruity spring drinks.

But let’s not get too far ahead of ourselves! January is a month full of funky holidays and national celebrations, like National Rubber Ducky Day and Get to Know Your Customer Day. We can’t just let those days pass without having a little fun at work (plus, make a bit more cash while we’re at it).

So here’s a calendar brought to you by Local Bartending School for bartenders and bar owners to use all month long. For marketing ideas, entertaining your guests and regulars, and bringing a little more sparkle behind the bar—just like a fresh layer of powdery, clean January snow.

January 1 – National Hangover Day & New Year’s Day

New Year’s Day is all about new beginnings. And too bad for us, it’s also the most common day for hangovers. Thanks, NYE!

Your bartop or venue might be a bit slow. If you have a kitchen, focus on food sales today or schedule a lighter staff to save some labor hours.

For the few New Year’s Day warriors, be sure to offer them a great winter cocktail so they stick around and keep you company. And buy drinks, of course.u

January 2 – World Introvert Day

An introvert on any other day might be hesitant to come out to a busy bar or packed event venue. But what party is filled with quiet people who claim to be introverts themselves? I can hear the lack of small talk now…

Invite the local introverts to your bar to celebrate this momentous day made just for them. Keep the drinks flowing and the loud, meaningless conversations to a minimum, please!

Why do introverts hate bars so much?

Loud musicHaving to chat pointlessly with the bartenders and other guestsSticky floors, bar tops, and the smell of stale beer

January 3 – Festival of Sleep Day & Fruitcake Toss Day

We told you to keep an eye out for Fruitcake Toss Day in December. Yeah, back when you got that nasty thing and thought you’d eat it before the new year. Well it’s time to toss that bad boy out.

But that brings up a question… Do you think you could make a cocktail inspired by an old fruitcake? Share your recipe with us!

It’s also the Festival of Sleep Day, which aims to reduce the damage from sleep disorders by better preventing and managing them. And we all know we could use more sleep as bartenders. I just hope that old fruitcake doesn’t haunt my dreams like a good night in the weeds does.

January 4 – Trivia Day

Trivia and bars go together like tequila and lime juice. Put them together and watch the fun really start.

Defined, trivia are facts (about people or events) that are not well-known. And what’s the best place for people to show off that useless knowledge? The bar.

Bars typically hold a themed trivia night weekly, monthly, or whenever you feel like it. Trivia is great to increase weekly retention and consistent bar sales. Motivate teams to enter by offering a gift card or free drinks for first, second, or third place.

January 5 – National Bird Day

Birds don’t have much to do with bars, I’ll be honest here. But hey, we’re all about making weird holidays marketable for bartenders and bar owners.

For National Bird Day, we think it’s time for the mixologists to step up on the perch! Create a cocktail like ‘The Blue Bird’, ‘Cardinal’, or ‘Raven’ and put it on special for today only.

Is your bar named after a feathered friend? Then today is really your day to fly above the rest.

January 6 – Cuddle Up Day

It’s cold outside and for some people, that means snuggling up with their significant other. But for the rest of us, the only thing we have to cuddle up with is our favorite arm of the couch while we watch reruns of Schitt’s Creek.

Welcome the cuddle-buddy-less crowd with big, warm welcoming snuggly arms and a spot at your bar.

January 7 – Old Rock Day

Old Rock Day is for fossil lovers everywhere but for bartenders, it feels more appropriate to tell our coworkers and nasty guests to “go kick rocks”.

Okay, okay, maybe we won’t advise going around being complete dicks to people and potentially losing your bartending job. Instead, on Old Rock Day throw these rockin’ fun facts around to see if you can’t crack a bigger tip.

Rocks from space can land on Earth.They’re used to make aluminum baseball bats.When the minerals in a rock repeat in a pattern, they are called crystals.

January 8 – Male Watcher’s Day & Bubble Bath Day

Time to be creepy, party people. January 8th at your bar might be filled with folks lined up to take a peek at the males. But since today is also Bubble Bath Day as well as Male Watcher’s Day, we’re thinking a hunky male in a bubble bath is the way to get people to come out for this wacky celebration.

January 9 – National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day

Appreciate your local law enforcement today! Hold a special event, discount drinks for first-liners, and let them know you’ve got their back as much as they have yours every day. I mean, who else are you going to call when a guest is passed out in your bathroom? Law enforcement, of course!

I have a soft spot for law enforcement! In college, my regulars were local officers and narcotics detectives. I’ve found bartenders and those in law enforcement have a similar sense of humor. I guess we both see how ugly the public can be and laugh as a coping mechanism. Since then, I’ve always loved taking care of them!

Have you served a law enforcement officer in a meaningful way? Tell us in the comments below!

January 10 – Bittersweet Chocolate Day

If you’ve been reading our bartender calendars for a few months now, you might know that there are an awful lot of days that celebrate chocolate. Humans love their chocolate, I guess.

And from day one of our calendar series, we’ve been the biggest supporters of celebrating these creamy days by adding our favorite thing—booze.

What is the best chocolate cocktail that you’ve made for a guest or tried for yourself?

January 11 – National Hot Toddy Day

We love a good ol’ hot toddy. So much that it made our list of top winter cocktails!

We know the toddy from British-controlled India. “Taddy” — a Hindi word from the 1610s — originally meant fermented palm sap. But over one hundred years later, it was defined as “liquid containing liquor, sugar, and spices.”

January 12 – Kiss a Ginger Day

Ask your bar patrons to bring in their loves with red hair and give them a big fat kiss right at your bartop. If they do, reward them with a discounted or free drink. We think it’s a fun, date-night idea to market on social media, chalkboard, or a-frame sign.

January 13 – National Sticker Day & National Rubber Ducky Day

Stickers and rubber duckies. Two staples to growing up in my opinion.

Instead of getting a sticker for being a good kid at the doctor, today people will be rewarded with stickers at the bar. They can be funny stickers that bring a laugh or you can finally get rid of that stack of marketing stickers you have piling up in the stock room.

For National Rubber Ducky Day, let your imagination fly away. Several bartenders and mixologists have created cocktails adorned with our cute little yellow bathtime buddy. But to me, I’d just be thinking of bathtub water. No rubber ducky cocktail for me, thank you!

January 14 – National Dress Up Your Pet Day

Some of you are lucky enough to bartend, serve, or work at venues that welcome four-legged friends. And if you are, today can’t be skipped. Why? It’s National Dress Up Your Pet Day and you know you don’t want to miss a French Bulldog in a tutu, do you?

Plan a pet party!Encourage pet owners to join and dress their pets.Reward “Best-Dressed” pooches.Offer specials and discounts.Snap pictures and upload them to your socials.

Want to host a pet event? Missing the bar or the bartenders? Local Bartending School can not only provide you with everything you need for the extravaganza, but we can also get your whole team certified with our in-depth training program.

January 15 – National Hat Day

Since 1983, schools, libraries, and museums have celebrated National Hat Day. Visitors and students were invited to wear hats of all kinds. Favorite hats, work hats, goofy hats, all of the hats.

Keep this forty-year-old tradition alive! At work today, wear a hat.

And if your manager won’t let you, give them the dunce cap.

January 16 – National Nothing Day

My old coworker Jerry must’ve thought that every day was National Nothing Day.

Feel free to stand around and do absolutely nothing like my pal Jerry! And when your boss comes around to ask you what in the hell you’re doing, you tell them, “It’s National Nothing Day, duh.”

Just be careful! I used to have a supervisor that would kick us with their boot toe when we’re standing around or made a mistake that cost the house money. If you’re working for a tyrant like my old boss, best to pretend National Nothing Day means nothing to you!

January 17 – Blue Monday

Blue Monday is speculated to be the saddest day of the year. As a bartender, you can turn that frown upside down by inviting everyone to your bar for an endorphin-filled good time and of course, good drinks.

January 18 – National Winnie the Pooh Day

Winnie the Pooh was always trying to get him some damn honey! Probably to make a drink with, now that we’re thinking about it.

For National Winnie the Pooh Day, feel free to add extra honey to the cocktails that call for. Winnie would be proud.

Here are some Winnie-approved cocktails from Liquor.com:

Bee’s Knees Honey-Kissed Cosmopolitan Bear with Me, Honey

January 19 – National Popcorn Day

Popcorn isn’t just for the cinema. By today’s standards, popcorn is for the drama! When something is about to pop off, we grab our popcorn and sit down to watch the show.

Well, you know what goes great with salty popcorn and a good show? A refreshing brewski straight from the tap.

Pop some corn, pour some beers, and put on a good dramatic show, and get ready for a buzzing night at your bar.

January 20 – Get to Know Your Customer Day

A good bartender strives to be friendly with regulars and customers. But today is a day focused on getting to know them on a deeper level.

Here are some questions you can ask your guest to break the ice:

Where are you from originally?What do you do for work?What kind of hobbies or interests do you have?

January 21 – National Squirrel Appreciation Day

Squirrels don’t have a spot at the bar. But now that I’m picturing a bartop full of cute squirrels with their long tails, I’m thinking they should.

Instead, grab your nuts. I mean your nutty liquors and liqueurs! Tell your regulars about National Squirrel Appreciation Day and offer them orgeat or amaretto in celebration.

January 22 – National Hot Sauce Day

Cue the heartburn! National Hot Sauce Day calls for one thing and one thing only—The Torchlight.

This cocktail, made by Middle Branch in NYC, balances the spice of the Cholula with the sweetness of the honey syrup and lime juice.

Fans of hot sauce will be dying to try this. And even the people who don’t like heat have to try it for National Hot Sauce Day.

January 23 – National Pie Day

Bartenders and mixologists love to create concoctions that taste like the things we eat. Especially dessert. And especially pie. For a few pie-themed cocktail recipes, like pumpkin, check out our list of top fall cocktails!

January 24 – Beer Can Appreciation Day

On January 24, we celebrate Beer Can Appreciation Day in remembrance of the historic, monumental, and thirst-quenching day beer was first sold in cans. Back in 1969, sales of canned beer exceeded that of bottled beers for the first time and we haven’t looked back ever since.

The best way to show your appreciation? Drop the price and run a special on all beers that come in a can.

January 25 – Opposite Day

Opposite Day, a fun holiday in elementary school but not so fun as adults. Imagine a guest not tipping because it’s Opposite Day! Better keep this one to yourselves, this time.

January 26 – Spouse’s Day

Spouse’s Day is all about letting those legally-wedded partners know how much they’re loved. Invite spouses everywhere to exactly that with drink and food specials aimed like Cupid’s arrow directly at couples.

Offer two-for-one dealsRun specials on shareable bottles of wine and champagneHighlight menu items are good to share

January 27 – Chocolate Cake Day

I wasn’t lying when I said there are a lot of days in our calendar series that involve chocolate.

So here’s a recipe for a shot from Spruce Eats that doesn’t involve any chocolate at all but tastes exactly like chocolate cake.

Ingredients

.75 ounce vanilla (citrus, clear, or vanilla).75 ounce hazelnut liqueur1 sugar-coated lemon wedge

Instructions

Pour the vodka and hazelnut liqueur into a cocktail shaker. Fill with ice, shake, and strain into a shot glass.

January 28 – Fun at Work Day & National Kazoo Day

One of the reasons why we love bartending so much over here at Local Bartending School is because every day feels like Fun at Work Day. We can tell R-rated jokes about testicles to our guests without getting human resources called (true story, by the way). I’d like to see a government employee do that and get away with it.

So even though I think every day is fun at work, the consensus might not be in on that opinion. That’s probably why they made today National Kazoo Day too, so the other industries have a fair shot at some amusement while on the clock.

January 29 – National Puzzle Day

Puzzles can be hard to figure out. And you know they say that the best thinking involves a little bit of drinking. (Go ahead, yeah… you can use that.)

Today, invite your bar crowd or regulars to partake in a little bit of puzzle action with a drink in hand (made by you, of course). Puzzles are great to keep brains active. It’ll make up for all those double-whiskeys you’ve served to them over the years.

January 30 – Yodel for Your Neighbors Day

The word “yodel” is derived from the German word “jodeln,” which means “to utter the syllable jo”—said as “yo” in English. Shepherds in the Alps yodeled to communicate with others long distances away and to round up cattle.

But today, you’re not rounding up cattle. You’re rounding up the drinkers.

Here are a few (totally weird) ways you can celebrate Yodel for Your Neighbors Day at your bar:

Yodel when you greet guestsWear a German-inspired outfitSend a few employees out to yodel and invite people back to the bar

January 31 – National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day

As we wrap up the month, it’s only fitting today is National Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day. So satisfying. So simple. Bubble Wrap.

Everyone knows what bubble wrap is. And we all love it. Bring some into work today! Would it be weird to hand out bubble wrap? Maybe. But if anything, it’s fun to even talk about with your guests. And bubbly conversations are what we bartenders are all about.

New Year’s Resolution: Make a Million Dollars in Tips

January always goes by so fast! We make these huge new resolutions and before you know it, it’s September and we haven’t done much of a workout except changing kegs.

Don’t let thirty-one opportunities to make a bit of extra cash this month in liquor sales pass you by, too.

And remember for the best tips and tricks from our team at Local Bartending School, check out our blog. Or if you’re ready to start, step up, or bring new tricks into your bartending career, contact us today!

A Bartender’s Calendar: February 2024

Romance is in the air! It’s February and this month usually means one thing for those of us in the bar and restaurant industry. Valentine’s Day. We see break-ups, make-ups, and everything in between. And then we go and talk about them in the back!

But Valentine’s Day isn’t the only day worthy of a reservation or rendezvous at our bartop. Turns out, there are plenty of excuses to celebrate in February.

Ask the team at Local Bartending School. We’re a team of industry veterans who know a thing or two about bartending. After all, we are a bartender school!

Just for bartenders and bar owners, we’ve created a bartender calendar you can use for marketing or to bring a little love to your bar.

February 1 – No Politics Day

Can it be No Politics Day every day? After the last few years, I’m burnt out. What about you, bartender friend?

Though my personal bar convos never typically went there, some of you maybe can’t avoid politics because of where you live, where you work, or what’s playing on your TVs.

But in honor of today’s holiday, switch the conversation to something a bit lighter if you hear someone chatting red-and-blue. Talk about how tomorrow is both Groundhog Day and Ukulele Day. Now that’s something a bartender like me can chat about.

February 2 – National Ukulele Day & Groundhog Day

If you’ve been reading our blog (rated one of the top bartender blogs by Feedspot, btw), you probably read the crazy story about a bartender pulling out their ukulele to lure rowdy guests into last call. It didn’t need to be National Ukulele Day for him. For some reason, that bartender always had his ukulele on him.

Other than that, National Ukulele Day doesn’t have much to do for you, bar bud.

Here to steal the show and hopefully see his shadow, is the groundhog. February 2nd has long reigned this day, Groundhog Day. You know the premise, don’t you? Sees its shadow, then spring is coming?

Well we don’t really care if that little short-legged woodchuck sees his shadow. And you shouldn’t either. Nothing should stop you from opening up that patio and serving spring cocktails!

February 3 – National Women Physicians Day

A woman was famously allowed to attend medical school as a joke. Until she became the first woman in America with a medical degree, proving everyone wrong about her “intellectual inferiority.” She’s the reason behind National Women Physicians Day.

Today isn’t just about Elizabeth Blackwell, no no. All physicians who identify as a woman are being recognized and celebrated! Here’s how you can honor their achievements at your restaurant or bar:

Discount drinks for lady doctors and/or throw an eventRun social media ads thanking them for their hard work (and inviting them out!)Drop off promotional material at local medical offices for your event, deals, etc.

February 4 – Thank a Mailman Day & National Wear Red Day

What’s up with all these days for the mail? Back in January, we had a day just to watch out for the male man. Oh, wait, different type of male, sorry!

Don’t just thank any old guy, thank your mail carrier!

I know some of you who work earlier bar lunch shifts probably see the mailman. You might see the mailman as much as your pesky liquor reps. Okay okay, maybe not that much.

Next time you see the person who drops off all your mail, give him a big ‘ole thanks and invite him to come back with a friend later for a brewski on the house.

February 5 – Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast Day & National Weatherman’s Day

Before your shift today, you have our full permission to eat nothing but ice cream.

Your guests will be craving some, too! It doesn’t have to be breakfast, though! Highlight an ice-cream-based cocktail or dessert for a bit of an extra sweet sale.

And don’t forget, it’s also National Weatherman’s Day. So while your guests are spooning their faces with delicious ice cream, turn on the weather channel. I bet your guests today will never forget the way they spent February 5th.

February 6 – Dump Your Significant Jerk Day

Us bartenders aren’t deprived of seeing awkward relationship conversations. Actually, it’s kind of one of the perks of the job. We’re weird voyeuristic folks at the end of the day, I guess.

And today is no day that lacks drama. It’s Dump Your Significant Jerk Day.

Notice the jerk part. These aren’t normal partners! They’re assholes and the relationship needs to be put to an end. At your bar.

Help your friends, locals, and regulars 86 their jerky partners. Forget a quiet conversation at home! That jerk deserves a public breakup. And they break-ee deserves a drink in hand before, during, and after with your support the whole time.

February 7 – Send a Card to a Friend Day

Cards are typically sent for holidays or birthdays. But everyone loves a card that comes just because! That’s why Send a Card to a Friend Day came about.

Who is a bartender’s best friend? The people who pay our bills, that’s who.

So go grab some cards and give a few out to your regulars or very best coworkers. And if they give you a really weird look because their bartender just gave them a card for no reason at all, tell them what day it is so you look a little less creepy.

February 8 – Molasses Bar Day

Cover your whole bar with molasses! It’s Molasses Bar Day.

Okay, that’s not technically how you’re supposed to celebrate. You’re supposed to be eating sticky ass molasses bars, but where would anyone find that?

But you know…. Syrup and molasses can taste amazing in a cocktail or mocktail. That’s probably the best way to go for today. We’ll skip the sticky bar, for now.

February 9 – Toothache Day & National Pizza Day

Do you know what helps a toothache? A nice whiskey.

No really, my Arkansas-born-and-raised dad swears by it! So much so he used to dabble a bit on us when we were kids, growing teeth and stuff. Maybe that’s where this whole affinity with liquor and bartending started!

So, share this fun fact with your guests and social media audience to see if you can’t increase a few of your liquor sales on Toothache Day.

And so sorry for those who have toothaches because they won’t be able to eat any pizza!

If your bar sells pizza, you better be celebrating National Pizza Day. Or else. I’m smelling discounts and pints of beer.

February 10 – Umbrella Day

Umbrella Day was created by Rihanna just to market her 2008 hit. Okay, just kidding. But it is a great day to play the song at your venue.

Here are other ways to increase sales on Umbrella Day:

Use tiny umbrellas as garnishes… in everythingServe rainbow-colored cocktailsCreate a drink inspired by Mary Poppins

February 11 – Make a Friend Day

It’s Make a Friend Day and as bartenders, we make new friends every day, all day long! But maybe your guests need a little nudge toward sparking new friendships.

Hold a networking event all about meeting new faces. You could also collaborate with a network marketing type of business and host an event at your bar.

At the very least, try introducing your bar guests to other folks sitting down. I used to work with a bartender who did this regularly! He’d simply involve the entire bar in the conversation, introduce people to each other, and suddenly his bar top would be jovial and people would stay longer and tip more!

February 12 – Abraham Lincoln’s Birthday

Abraham Lincoln, the United State’s 16th president and in my personal opinion, one of the goats.

Known to be humble, he also was quite moderate in the drinking department. Some say he drank the least amount of any president.

This is why at your bar today, you’ll urge people to not be Abraham Lincoln and drink up!

February 13 – Super Bowl Sunday & Galentine’s Day

A perfect day for all couples everywhere—February 13, 2024. Men, you take football. Ladies, enjoy your girl’s day.

And we bartenders will be here to welcome both! Sports bars, you might want to focus on what you do best and that’s sports, food, and beer. Other trendy bars, like French bistros, you might go the Galentine’s Day route.

Bar owners, take your pick of which day to celebrate! But are you worried that your team of bartenders can’t handle the big rush? Local Bartending School can train, certify, and prep everyone so they’re ready for the field.

February 14 – Valentine’s Day

There are two types of couples: those who are okay with sitting at the bar on Valentine’s Day and those who are not. Either way, make sure you’re ready for the influx of duos looking for a romantic night out.

Having twelve years of V-Day’s in my back pocket, here are a few tips for new bartenders or novice bar owners:

Offer specials aimed at couples, like shareable plates and two-for-one dealsGive your guests plenty of privacyLight candles and play swanky music to set the mood

February 15 – Singles Awareness Day

Singles Awareness Day comes right after Valentine’s Day for a reason. I mean, if couples get a whole day, singles should, too!

So get ready for another round of people celebrating their marital status! Except this time, cater toward individuals. And be sure to market on social media, it’s a big day on platforms with over 120,000 collective posts and impressions.

February 16 – National Almond Day

Almond-flavored liqueurs are one of my favorite things behind the bar. They’re easy to sip on and lend a delicate flavor to the cocktail that it’s in. And since today is National Almond Day, that’s what’s on special.

Offer guests your almond liqueur, like Disarrono, as a floater to coffees or serve them neat for a digestif, or after-dinner dessert.

You can also use something like orgeat in a signature cocktail all your own.

February 17 – Random Acts of Kindness Day

The service industry is one big place for random acts of kindness. That’s how we make our money.

Inspiring everyone to do something nice for their friends, Random Acts of Kindness Day was created by a foundation focused on making kindness the norm.

For those of us who serve, bartend, or own a venue, it’s our chance to be kind toward our guests, but ourselves and others. Help a coworker out, even though it isn’t part of your sidework. If you’re in the habit of negative self-talk, practice being kind to yourself! You deserve it, too.

Spreading positivity is contagious and will be sure to affect your service. Watch your tips increase, too!

February 18 – National Drink Wine Day

Order an extra case or two. If your guests already sip on a lot of house wine for happy hour or any hour, they’re bound to order a few extra glasses today. It’s National Drink Wine Day!

Market this momentous celebration on your socials and signs, you’ve got some wine to sell!

February 19 – National Lashes Day

Give all the ladies a place to wear their lashes on National Lashes Day. Fake lashes, long lashes, neon-colored lashes, no lashes—today we celebrate them all. Does your dog have long lashes? Show us. Best lashes in show receive a round, on the house!

February 20 – Love Your Pet Day & Cherry Pie Day

People can be obsessed with their pets. Well, they finally get a full 24 hours to show their furry friends an extra bit of love. Join in on the fun! If you can’t invite pets in your bar for a little day-outing, then ask to see pictures of your regular’s pets! It’s a great way to increase your customer engagement.

If pets aren’t really your thing and you’d rather not have dander in your bar or restaurant, we get it. Maybe you should focus on Cherry Pie Day. Once your guests hear those words, they’ll have a hard time saying no to a cherry-themed cocktail on special.

February 21 – President’s Day & Card Reading Day

President’s Day isn’t usually a reason to go to the bar, but if you make a whole bunch of drinks named after famous presidents I’m willing to vote that a few people would show up.

Make an Abraham Lincoln, and I’m there.

Your crowd not exactly into presidents? It’s also Card Reading Day. Call your local tarot or oracle reader, give her a corner of your bar to work her magic, and offer your guests a look into their future as well as a good night at your bar.

February 22 – National Margarita Day

This year, National Margarita Day falls on Taco Tuesday. Sounds like a mini Cinco do Mayo if you ask us! Batch some margs, cook some tacos or nachos, and get ready for a fiesta.

No kitchen? No problem. Partner with a local food truck to give your guests the best of both worlds, delicious tacos, and refreshing margaritas.

February 23 – National Banana Bread Day

We’re no bakers and we don’t work at a bakery. Chances of us having banana bread are low. The only time you might find a bartender with some is if it’s crumbled into minuscule pieces in the bottom of our aprons. Don’t offer your guests any of that.

Instead, whip up a creamy cocktail made with banana liqueur or fresh fruit.

February 24 – World Bartender Day

It’s our day, people. A day dedicated to appreciating us folks who pour drinks and keep strangers company all year round. We hold one of the world’s oldest (and most fun) jobs. We know secrets about our guests that they don’t tell anyone else. Instead of the limelight being on our guests, today is all about us. The bartender.

Use the hashtag #WorldBartenderDay to post pictures of you and the local bartenders.

Want to be a bartender and celebrate every February 24th? Local Bartending School can help out with that too! One of our nationally recognized instructors can come to you in our at-home bartending course. Click here to learn more.

February 25 – National Skip the Straw Day

Created by ocean conservationists, National Skip the Straw Day aims to decrease the amount of plastic harming wildlife. You’ve probably been affected by this. I know I have as a bartender.

I’ve worked at bars that only give straws if the guest asks for one. I’ve worked at places that are 100% straw-free or use those paper ones that instantly disintegrate.

But here’s an unpopular opinion. Give me the straw.

I don’t want my lips touching the rim of that glass. I’ve seen the hands that handle glassware.

As a straw slinger, how do you feel about the great straw debate?

February 26 – Tell a Fairy Tale Day

No need to think of what to say today. Just tell a fairy tale. Your guests always love a good story!

February 27 – National Pokemon Day

Some really good Pokemon could be hiding out at your bar!

Back when Pokemon Go was huge, one time my boss wrote on our sandwich board that we had the best pokemon at our bar. We saw at least 20 people come in that day hunting Bulbasaur and a cocktail.

February 28 – Floral Design Day

Bartending can be thought of as an art form. Some people might disagree. Those people probably would say cheerleading isn’t a sport or believe in presidential hoaxes.

Another form of art that’s underrated is floral design! So grab the biggest bouquet you can find and bring some life into your bar.

Fun, February National Holidays for Bartenders

People are ready to come out of hibernation, spring is just about here and your regulars are itching to get back out into warmer spirits. Now you have a full month of days and reasons to get them to your bar!

And remember, if you need help from our team at Local Bartending School with training, their instructors are ready to answer whatever questions you might have. Contact us today!

A Bartender’s Calendar: March 2024

Get the patio ready. Clean those chairs, dust those tables—make your bar shine! Spring will be springing this month and we’re so here for it. Fruity cocktails, brunch, and sunshine… I mean how could you not?

Honestly, we’re here for the whole month of March. There’s so much to do! Between the first day of spring, baseball season starting, and the best day to be a bartender, St. Patty’s Day, March cannot be topped. Unless it’s a hat on a leprechaun, of course.

Here are 31 ideas to bring in buckets of gold, a bartender’s marketing calendar made by our team of industry professionals at Local Bartending School. We’re here to help you with big spring events, with bartending courses brought to you, or even training sessions for your whole crew.

Let’s hop right in to see what sort of luck March has to bring us!.

March 1 – Mardi Gras & Fat Tuesday

In French, Mardi Gras means Fat Tuesday. It’s a Christian holiday in origin, and people celebrate the last night of eating rich, fatty foods before the ritual Lenten sacrifices and fasting of the Lenten season. During Lent, folks give something up for 40 days and 40 nights, mimicking Jesus’ journey in the desert.

That’s the G-rated side of things. It’s also a time to get drunk!

In New Orleans, folks parade down Bourbon Street with cocktails in hand, throwing beads in exchange for a quick look at a stranger’s boobs. Yes, a celebration any God-fearing person would be proud of.

Today, get ready for an influx of people wearing purple, yellow, and green. Here are other ways to bring the festival to your bar:

Hand out beads for your guests to wear (Don’t encourage nudity, that’s just bad press!)Wear a masquerade maskServe ojen liqueur, a Spanish anisette usually drank in New Orleans

March 2 – Old Stuff Day & Ash Wednesday

Folks who weren’t raised Catholic might find themselves thrown off when people walk into their bars with dirty foreheads. Not to worry, bartender friends.

It’s just Ash Wednesday, marking the first day of Lent. Church-goers partake in a special mass, receiving ashes on their forehead to symbolize repentance.

But if all that ash reminded you of how dusty your bar is, it’s only fitting. Also being Old Stuff Day, it’s time to get rid of all that stuff under your wells or in the back office that’s collecting dust.

March 3 – National Anthem Day

Today, back in 1931 the U.S. said, “Let’s make that song by Francis Scott Key our national anthem.” And so it was!

You can celebrate today by:

hanging up a few flags,singing ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’, orplaying National Anthem by Lana del Reyserving American-themed drinks

Check out a recipe for red, white, and blue shots on our best summer cocktails list!

March 4 – Employee Appreciation Day

Employees are the nuts and bolts of any business and though you should appreciate their hard work every day, today is the day to really thank them for their efforts.

Bar owners, it’s easy to make your staff feel good! But it’s even easier to make them feel unappreciated.

Before you start your recognition of greatness, make sure you know how your employee likes to be rewarded. Some people don’t like a big shout-out! They might prefer a one-on-one convo. Make sure you know which one has the biggest appreciation impact.

And for my fellow bartenders, how would you like to be thanked on Employee Appreciation Day? Let us know so we can put in a good word with our network of bar owners.

March 5 – National Absinthe Day

Ah, absinthe. The variety of flavors makes absinthe a tasty addition to many cocktail menus. But, do you know how to make it the traditional French way? Local Bartending School’s bartending courses, like their one-of-a-kind flair course, can help with that and so many other skills you’ll need for a great career behind the bar.

Some talking points to go along with today’s special:

The drink was created in SwitzerlandAbsinthe is also called ‘The Green Fairy’France was drinking 36 million liters of absinthe by 1910

March 6 – National Oreo Cookie Day

Oreos are known as America’s Favorite Cookie, so why not create America’s favorite cocktail?

March 7 – National Cereal Day

You know, cereal and cocktails don’t seem to mix. But a bartender I worked with created a cereal-inspired cocktail, named it something along the lines of Saturday Morning Cartoons, and ran it as a brunch special. The people loved it!

Sure, National Cereal Day lands on a Monday this year and no one is brunching then, so extend your special into the weekend for that extra pop.

March 8 – International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is on March 8 every year and it celebrates women’s achievements in economics, culture, and politics. This year the theme is Break the Bias, which as a bartender or bar owner, you can totally help do. Here’s how:

Wear purple, white, and green to show your supportPartner with a charity that focuses on females or gender parityRun specials only for women

March 9 – National Get Over It Day

Some people get mad when you tell them to get over it. And they have that right. Except for today. You legally have to get the f*@! over it, it’s a national holiday.

Our favorite way to cope? With a drink in hand.

Invite your regulars and friends to get over it at your bar.

March 10 – International Day of Awesomeness

We have a pretty cool job being bartenders. I think it’s pretty awesome. But today we get an extra pass for being the awesome people we are.

See, Keven Lawver back in 2007 joked that his office should have an International Day of Awesomeness because, like us, felt his team were badasses. So he picked the birthday of the biggest badass myth of them all, Chuck Norris, to celebrate.

March 11 – National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Day

Funeral directors and morticians are surrounded by death all day long. Bring a little life into their night! Today on their national holiday, save them a spot at your bar.

March 12 – National Girl Scout Day

Now, you can’t go on inviting little girls to come party at the bar. Do not do that.

For National Girl Scout Day, a Thin Mint flavored cocktail or a whole line of signature cookie cocktails would be a huge hit.

March 13 – Ear Muff Day

Why Ear Muff Day falls right before spring, the world may never know. Plus your bartop will be really confused when you wear a pair to work today to celebrate this random, badly timed day.

March 14 – National Potato Chip Day & National Pi Day

Potato chips and pie. Sounds like a good time to me!

Today’s a fun day for marketing in the bar industry. Why? Well, beer goes great with chips. And while the mathematical pi doesn’t taste too good, a pie-flavored cocktail sure does!

March 15 – Tea for Two Tuesday

Made just for two folks to simply enjoy a cuppa together, Tea for Two Tuesday happens every third Tuesday in March.

Alcoholic tea, anyone? Encourage your bartop to indulge in a relaxing tea-flavored cocktail or a Long Island Iced Tea and conversation with their favorite person, or a stranger sitting next to them. Run specials on those drinks too for a bit of extra encouragement.

March 16 – National Panda Day

Pandas—the world’s craziest looking bear and also one of the cutest animals ever.

This reminds me of one of the most unsuspected phenomena I’ve seen in my bartending career, guys. Here’s a crazy story.

So, I was working at a swanky French bar and somehow our TVs ended up on an endless loop of animal videos. I was the bar manager that day, quickly noticed that that wasn’t supposed to be playing, so I switched the channel.

That’s when I heard a guest yell at me. They wanted to keep watching it! So we kept it on and what came after that you’ll never guess.

We rarely turned that channel off.

People were hypnotized, entranced, enthralled, and couldn’t look away. Bar guests were more patient, stayed longer, and truly seemed content. I grabbed the bar owner and head chef/co-owner to show them this master bar secret I unlocked.

So the moral of the story is to play videos of adorable pandas on your bar TVs all day long and watch the magic happen.

March 17 – St. Patrick’s Day

Green is the theme! People have on their lucky shirts and are ready to spend some coins, too! In the U.S., people fork over about $43 per person on alcohol alone.

That’s a big day for us bartenders. And I know you’re ready to get lucky!

For St. Patty’s Day, you know what to do to celebrate. Do the green thing, green beer, and run specials that are hard to pass up.

Owners, managers, or shift leads, don’t find yourself in a bind when things get chaotic, ‘cause they will.

You’ll need to make sure your entire staff is trained and certified. Novice bartenders can make a lot of errors when they’re not used to high volume and may overpour, overserve, or provide alcohol to a minor. Get everyone trained up and ready!

March 18 – Awkward Moments Day

A few days ago we were celebrating how awesome our jobs are. Today, we’re recognizing those awkward moments.

What is your most awkward moment behind the bar? I’ll go first.

When I was first starting, I was carrying a tray of about eight pint glasses. Boom, dropped them. Well, I picked up the glass off the floor with my hands (a huge no-no, and here’s why), cutting myself but didn’t feel it because of the adrenaline and cortisol rushing through me.

Of course, I owed my table new drinks. What they didn’t order was my blood dripping from each cup.

YEP. I BLED ON MY GUEST’S GLASSWARE.

Can you beat that awkward moment?

March 19 – International Sports Car Racing Day

ISCAR Day is a day to celebrate and appreciate this highly popular sport. It falls on a perfect day, you know. Today is also twelve hours of racing in Sebring, Florida at the Sebring International Raceway. It’s the oldest endurance race in America, starting in 1952.

Bartenders, you can hone in on the racers who like to drink and host an event! It can be a car show type of deal, you can play famous races or the race in Sebring.

March 20 – Spring Equinox & International Day of Happiness

The first day of spring just so happens to fall on the International Day of Happiness. Coincidence? Definitely not. With all that extra vitamin D, it’s hard not to catch the wave of euphoria, right?

Invite your regulars out of winter’s sleep with some sunshine and light spring cocktails.

March 21 – National Fragrance Day

Fragrance has a lot to do with the drinks we serve. Wine is highly aromatic and liquors like gin and whiskey can be, too!

So that’s why we think you should celebrate National Fragrance Day as a bartender. Ask your guests to really get involved with their olfactory senses and offer up some of your best fragrant drinks.

March 22 – National Goof Off Day

When your boss asks you what you’re doing when you’re goofing off, today’s your only shot at getting away with it. Just tell them you’re celebrating a holiday and to kindly leave you to your observances.

March 23 – National Chip and Dip Day

Um, chips and dip? Yes, please.

Cocktails and chips and dip go together like wine and cheese. I don’t know about you but I sure do want a margarita to go with my salsa, por favor!

We’re thinking your guests might feel the same. Offer the combo of cocktails and chips and dip to add a bit to your check average today.

March 24 – National Cocktail Day

We serve a lot of wine and we pour gallons of beer, but you know our true shining moments as bartenders are when we’re making cocktails. And today, we’re honoring our favorite bar drinks.

You can celebrate with your existing cocktail menu, or be inspired to create your own! It’s National Cocktail Day and there’s no wrong way to celebrate. Here are some other ideas:

Learn a new skill through reading a bar book or hands-on trainingOrder your bar staff new bar toolsMarket an event on social media using #NationalCocktailDay

March 25 – International Waffle Day

If you can’t make a drink inspired by waffles, I have only one other option for having some fun on International Waffle Day and that’s quoting Donkey from Shrek all day long.

March 26 – Make Up Your Own Holiday Day

There are so many wacky celebrations and eccentric national holidays. All you need is a good idea and enough support and, poof! It’s as if any day can be Make Up Your Own Holiday Day.

But today, it actually is. While reading all of these bartender calendars, I know you’ve been thinking about a holiday you’d create. So today, make up that day and celebrate with your coworkers, staff, and guests. Just don’t get fired, huh?

March 27 – National Joe Day

Joe’s typically aren’t average at all. Every one that I’ve met has had the energy of a squirrel.

Today is all about Joe’s. Coffee, friends named Joe, baby kangaroos…

So at work today, you can celebrate in all sorts of ways. Invite people named Joe, Joey, Josephina, Jose, Joseph, Joselina—all the Joe’s to grab a drink at your bar. Or go the cup of Joe route instead, suggest or run special coffee drinks.

March 28 – National Weed Appreciation Day

Bartenders have used herbs for hundreds of years. Marking National Weed Appreciation Day on our bartender calendar is only right.

And no, today isn’t about appreciating smoke breaks in the back alley with the kitchen guys.

Today is focused on the weeds, like in a garden, that are actually useful! Not that cannabis isn’t useful… it just might not be legal in your state yet! Besides, marijuana has its own holiday!

March 29 – National Mom and Pop Business Owners Day

For all my bar owners doing the damn thing, this one’s for you! Running a bar is tough work and each day brings a different challenge.

But it’s also fun as hell, right?!

Today, try to give yourself a break. You work long hours, filling in all sorts of roles. You deserve some rest, too!

Bartenders, show your appreciation to your bosses! Without them, you might be working at an Applebees instead of the cool, unique bar they opened.

March 30 – National Doctors’ Day

Like us bartenders, doctors have their role in society too… I guess.

We keep people happy and having fun! Doctors keep people alive. Both are important.

So, have a Doctors’ Day party and thank those medical gurus for all they do by offering a bit of price break on today’s bill.

March 31 – Transgender Day of Visibility & MLB Season Begins

There are two types of bars in this world… one that celebrates transgender day and the other that plays the first MLB game. Which one do you bartend at?

MLB season is starting, which means beer and baseball. Turn those TVs on and start rootin’ for the home team. And if they don’t win, you have liquor.

But let’s say you’re working in Boystown. Best to let the baseball players have their time at Wrigley, ‘cause today is all about trans pride, baby! Baseball, smaseball.

On March 31, we celebrate transgender people and raise awareness about the discrimination they face. We honor them and thank them for their impact on our community. I won’t tell you how to celebrate today in the LGBTQIA+ community, but I know the party will be more lively than the baseball bar!

You’ve Marched Through a Month of Bartending Celebrations

March is not a month lacking in reasons to party. Your bartop should be full all month long.

And remember, if you need help from our team at Local Bartending School with training, their instructors are ready to answer whatever questions you might have. Contact us today!

A Bartender’s Calendar: April 2024

Forget the showers, forget the flowers. What really matters for us in the bar industry during April is thirty days of a busy bar. Busier than bees collecting all that honey for spring cocktails.

We’re gearing up for summer this month, so let’s really get things flowing behind the bar, shall we? Local Bartending School not only can come to your bar or home to get you and your team ready for a peak summer season, we’re bringing you a full month of marketable days and ideas to have your bartop fuller than your granny’s house on Easter.

April 1 – April Fools’ Day

The worst April Fools joke ever to be pulled on a bartender? A huge, fake tip. You can read about this and other crazy bartender stories here.

And since we’re in the industry of serving tasty drinks and good food, all with a smile, you might skip pranking your guests…

Instead, prank your coworkers!

One time on All Fools’ Day, I called our hosts and gave them a reservation for a huge party. This was back when they had smoking sections (I’m not that old, guys, I just lived in Indiana) and the number of tables was pretty limited, only about 12 people could fit comfortably. Our fake reso was for 30. They had the smoking section set up like a birthday party at a bowling alley!

April 2 – National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day & World Autism Awareness Day

Mixologists and bartenders love to make cocktails that taste like our favorite foods. And our guests love to drink them. So on National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day, we know what you’re making.

Today is also World Autism Awareness Day. To raise awareness for the cause, partner with a local charity or nonprofit organization looking to provide a service to those affected by autism.

April 3 – World Party Day

There are all sorts of parties in the world, but you know the best ones usually involve two things: a fully stocked bar and a good bartender or two.

And since all parties are being celebrated today, go ahead and pick whatever theme suits your fancy.

If you were ever looking for a random ass reason to throw a party, today is your day.

April 4 – Tell a Lie Day

Giving you endless permission to fib, Tell a Lie Day happens every year on April 4th.

But to be honest, bartenders lie all the time. I’ve lied to make stories more interesting, to build rapport with new guests, and of course, lied when I totally forgot to ring in a food order.

But today? I’ll lie all day long just to see if anyone notices!

April 5 – National Deep Dish Pizza Day

Most of my bartending career has been in Chicago, the home of deep-dish pizza. And you know what goes great with a saucy slice? A cold beer.

No matter where you live, see if you can’t somehow get your bar patrons a slice of Chicago-style, deep-dish pie and a draft.

April 6 – New Beer’s Eve

In 1933 Prohibition was nearing its end when people flocked to their favorite pub to enjoy the first legal brew in 13 years. This day has been dubbed New Beer’s Eve ever since, a precursor to New Beers Day. President Roosevelt reportedly said, “I think this is a good time for a beer.”

A million gallons of beer were consumed in the first 24 hours after the end of prohibition.

So to celebrate New Beer’s Eve, grab your 20s and 30s attire and clean your keg lines, you’ve got some beer to serve!

April 7 – National Beer Day

An echo to yesterday’s New Beers Eve, National Beer Day honors the most-drank alcohol beverage—brewskis!

President Franklin Roosevelt signed a law on April 7, 1933, allowing people to brew and sell beer, as long as it’s under 4% ABV.

Thankfully, today you can sell beer with an ABV upward of 12% and you can do that all day long on National Beer Day to honor our right to buy a beer.

April 8 – Day of Silence

Silence in bars isn’t usually a good thing. When it’s quiet, you’re usually not making any money. But wouldn’t it be nice to have a little peace and quiet every now and again? Silent disco, anyone?

April 9 – National Name Yourself Day

We’ve all wanted different names at some point in our lives. Some of us come up with nicknames. Some of us lie to baristas when they ask for a name with the order. To each their own.

Since us bartenders are meeting new people all the time, it’s easy to give ourselves a new name. So, Happy National Name Yourself Day! It’s your chance to rebrand. Only for a day, though.

To spark a little fun and engagement with your bartop, ask everyone what they wanted their name to be. Then, call them that for the rest of their time with you.

April 10 – National Siblings Day

Siblings, we ruthlessly hazed each other and now look at us…

For National Siblings Day, send an invite out to all those brothers, sisters, and siblings to come and hash out their childhood grievances at your bar. I hear drink specials help with strained relationships…

April 11 – National Pet Day

People love their pets. Which means you love their pets, too. Hello, we’re working for tips here!

Anytime someone shows you their pet, you act like that’s the cutest thing to ever grace your eyeballs. Not just today for National Pet Day, but every day.

April 12 – International Be Nice to Lawyers Day

A global day for celebrating lawyers, International Be Nice to Lawyers Day can be a simple day at your bar. Just ask lawyers to come out for the VIP treatment and a drink.

April 13 – National Make Lunch Count Day

It’s Wednesday on April 13th—the middle of the workweek. Folks are tired, losing their wind, and probably headed out for lunch, especially since it’s National Make Lunch Count Day.

If your bar is open for lunch, make it really count with a few drink specials to get your guests through that midweek hump.

April 14 – National Ex-Spouse Day & International Moment of Laughter Day

National Ex-Spouse Day and International Moment of Laughter Day at the same time? That must have been on purpose.

Getting over an ex is hard and laughing about it definitely can help. You know what helps even more? A cocktail made by an awesome bartender.

April 15 – National Laundry Day

Laundry day and bars don’t typically mix.

But for us bartenders and our one good shirt, we’ll take any reminder we can get to do laundry. So for that, we say thank you National Laundry Day, thank you.

April 16 – Husband Appreciation Day

We just celebrated exes and divorce, I know.

But just a few days later on April 16th, the world honors those hubbies still rockin’ their relationships.

Husbands not only love hours of isolation on the green, they also love a good stiff whiskey, ice-cold beer, and getting a drink with a hot little piece on their arm.

April 17 – Easter

Easter isn’t exactly a bar-going holiday. But if you’re working you might get a couple of people wanting a drink, so be ready! Here are a few spring cocktails that will bring a festive vibe.

April 18 – Tax Day

Taxes. No one can avoid the long, tedious, and unnecessarily hard annual requirement the government forces on us each year. It’s stressful!

And it’s all due on April 18th. Finally, taxpayers can relax until next year. That’s worth a celebration.

After those e-files are submitted, welcome people to your bar to relax and recognize their momentous achievements. Adulting is hard.

April 19 – Wear Pajamas to Work Day

Remember how it was Laundry Day just a little while ago? Yeah, I’m betting your clean shirt has some sticky residue hanging out. Luckily for you, it’s Wear Pajamas to Work Day.

So put on your cozy PJs, head to work, and hope to the bar gods that you don’t get fired.

Bar owners, would you let your staff wear pajamas to work today?

April 20 – National Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Day

Since we’re all industry folks here I’m willing to be you’re already aware that it’s 4/20. No need to go any further, right?

But what you might not know is that it’s also National Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Day. It’s time to grab your grenadine, vanilla vodka, and pineapple juice. Pineapple Upside-Down shots are on special today! Perfect for when your guests are hunting a little something sweet.

Not in the bar industry yet, but want to be? Local Bartending School is the U.S. and Canada’s top choice for bartending courses and training. Get your career started today!

April 21 – National Tea Day

Tea is one of the world’s most drank beverages. Alcohol is, too. It only makes sense that every now and again you might combine the two.

There are all sorts of ways you can combine liquor and tea, for some recipe ideas you can read our list of top spring cocktails where you can find a green tea cocktail recipe.

April 22 – Earth Day

For Earth Day, people are usually in the mood for light cocktails since they’re thinking about our beautiful, blooming earth. For the freshest recipe ideas, don’t forget to try some of the top spring cocktails linked above!

And since our jobs impact the environment, which is also usually top of mind today, here are some ways to keep your bar green-friendly:

Wait until your load is full before running the dishwasherUse, offer, or order biodegradable single-use wareImplement a recycling program for boxes and bottles

April 23 – International Creator Day

A lot of us who bartend happen to be creative people, too. We own businesses, make art through all sorts of mediums, and of course, craft cocktails for our guests every day.

So today, if you’re a bartender who is also a creator of sorts, it’s your day to talk about the magic you offer the world. Other than the delicious drinks, duh.

April 24 – National Pet Parents Day

Pet parents are a breed of their own, really. They’re crazy about their ‘fur kids’, willing to talk about them all night long from my experience. Yep, we think our pet is the best one out there. And I say we, because I too am a pet parent.

For National Pet Parents Day, why don’t you do what everyone else does and post a picture on social media? Post your pet and/or ask your staff members for a picture of theirs, so your guests can see a look at the pets behind the humans.

And of course, make sure you ask your regulars about their pets today! Don’t know if your regular has a pet? They’re not your regular then, my friend. Just kidding! Today’s the perfect day to ask.

April 25 – National Hairstylist Appreciation Day

Without our insanely talented hairstylists, we might not make as much money as we do as service industry workers. I mean think about it, if you showed up to work with your hair looking like you’re on day 39 on Survivor, you’re not getting that 20%.

So invite your hairstylist out for a drink at the bar. No, not like that. Unless you’re feeling the right vibes, then we say go for it. Just sure to hire us for the wedding.

April 26 – National Pretzel Day & National Dissertation Day

Finishing a dissertation definitely requires a celebratory glass of bubbly, so for National Dissertation Day, offer up a toast at a discounted price in honor of those who have taken on such a feat.

And since it’s also National Pretzel Day, you might as well give them a pretzel too.

April 27 – Administrative Professionals Day

Admins make the office world go ‘round. Yours, too as a bartender or bar owner. Perhaps you’re the admin and owner.

No matter which type of administrative professional you’re celebrating today, they deserve a drink. Encourage them to grab one at your bar!

April 28 – Clean Comedy Day

Behind the bar, it’s tough to keep things G-rated. But for today, the main challenge is to keep things totally clean when you’re cracking jokes. Loser takes a shot of malort.

April 29 – International Dance Day

For my bartenders working at clubs and music venues, International Dance Day is easy. Throw a party and invite everyone to join the world’s largest day of dance.

April 30 – Honesty Day

At the beginning of the month was Tell a Lie Day. Well, today it’s Abraham Lincoln’s favorite annual occurrence, Honesty Day.

You can choose to be honest today, and not tell a fake story just to get a better tip (not that I did that…) or console your guest with a beer when they finally fess up in honor of Honesty Day.

Conclusion Heading

April Fools? Where? Looks like you’re dodging all the pranks ‘cause now you have a whole month of fun and sometimes odd holidays to celebrate and make a bit of extra money.

For all your bartending needs from tips on the best types of bars to work at when you’re first starting out or even flair bartending, check out other blogs written just for bar folks like you at Local Bartending School.

A Bartender’s Calendar: May 2024

Welcome back to another calendar just for bartenders, brought to you by the team at Local Bartending School, your one place for training, certification, bartending courses, and even event staffing!

It’s not going to be May, it is May. And it’s time to May-ke some money.

Cruise through our list of marketable national holidays and weird days to celebrate with your bar guests, staff members, coworkers, or all by yourself. After all, a little Take Your Parents to the Playground Day never hurt ‘nobody!

May 1 – National Lemonade Day

When May hits, we know summer is right around the corner. And we also know there’s nothing like an ice-cold lemonade to bring the heat down a bit.

Get your regulars and guests amped for the season by suggesting a boozy lemonade.

May 2 – International Harry Potter Day

Harry Potter is one of the most successful movie series of all time, earning billions of dollars worldwide.

And today, the world celebrates the beloved wizard created by J.K. Rowling. Plus all of his wizarding friends at Hogwarts.

Don’t invite any muggles, but do invite fans of Harry Potter to come celebrate the books and movies that made them believe in magic again. Turn your bar into Hogwarts, name a few drinks after characters like Hermonie and Hagrid, and watch the spell unfold.

Tipso maximos!

May 3 – National Teacher Day

National Teacher Day recognizes the people that dedicate their lives to educating those young folks. And don’t get paid much for it.

Actually, a lot of bartenders teach for their ‘real job’ and tend the bar over the summer for some extra classroom money. Or ya know, to pay their bills just like these celebrities did.

The obvious choice here is to throw a party at your venue or bar and show your appreciation for educators everywhere!

May 4 – Star Wars Day

Arguably the best play on words ever, May the Fourth is a homage to the Star Wars line, “May the force be with you.”

This little joke turned into something bigger when they decided to make Star Wars Day an unofficial annual holiday.

Feel free to switch your greeting from a standard hello to the infamous line. You’ll know right away who’s a Star Wars fan and who has never seen the movie.

Need some other ideas than a weird greeting? I got you.

Wear your hair in Princess Leia bunsPlay Star Wars movies, shows, or musicHide a baby Yoda and offer a prize to the person who finds him

May 5 – Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is a huge day for bartenders, so I’m thinking you may already have today on your radar. Get ready with a few extra cases of Corona and Modelo, order more tequila and limes, and batch some margarita mix!

Some bars can’t keep up with the extra volume today. Don’t be that guy. Get some extra training, for yourself or an entire bar team, from the bartending gurus at Local Bartending School.

May 6 – National Beverage Day

National Beverage Day is an easy one!

People are drinking all sorts of things today, it might as well be a drink at your bar.

May 7 – Kentucky Derby & Beer Pong Day

The Kentucky Derby and Beer Pong Day, on the same day? Frat dudes must be going crazy with excitement.

Get crazy with them! Host a beer pong tournament and ask players to name their teams after horses. Oh, and a derby hat is a requirement for entry at the door. For guests and staff.

May 8 – Mother’s Day

Bartenders working the service well at a restaurant bar, be warned. You’ll have a busy Sunday if you’ve not worked on Mother’s Day before.

Mother’s Day always falls on Sunday so that means it’s like a normal brunch, but on crack. Groups of families get together to celebrate the matriarchal glue keeping their households sealed together like a broken cookie jar.

Expect to pour mimosas, wine, and that signature cocktail that gets ordered every brunch.

Bar and restaurant owners, today can be a great opportunity to challenge your servers and bartenders to upsell, upsell, upsell. People are ready and willing to spend an extra bit of money to make their mommas feel good today.

For food, you can offer a prix fixe menu or buffet to keep things a bit more orderly for both BOH and FOH.

May 9 – National Moscato Day

As if Ma didn’t have enough wine at brunch yesterday, give her a second chance with National Moscato Day.

Moscato is a sweet white, sometimes still sometimes bubbly, wine perfect for those just starting in the world of drinking vino. Or, for those whose pallets opt for a sweeter taste.

On National Moscato Day, pour up some specials! Just don’t pour too much, there’s nothing like a Moscato hangover or heartburn.

Week of May 10-16: National Craft Beer Week

Ditch the domestics! All week long, from May 10 to 16, we’re focused on craft brews only.

Partner with local brewers, because you know people love a local beer. Show your guests the best craft beers around and where to get them, your bar!

May 10 – National Clean Your Room Day

Everyone could probably spruce up their room a bit. That’s what National Clean Your Room Day is all about. And once everyone is done being good little kids, reward them with the cocktail they deserve. This is how adulting works, right?

May 11 – National Third Shift Workers Day & National Twilight Zone Day

Third shift workers might feel like they’re in the Twilight Zone. Luckily, during my career as a bartender so far, I haven’t worked many of them. And for my fellow comrades that do, how does it feel to be a vampire?

May 12 – National Limerick Day

Every year on May 12, we celebrate Limerick Day, which pays tribute to Edward Lear, who popularized short poems.

And how do you think all those poems got written? With a bit of help from bartenders and liquor across the world.

May 13 – National Fruit Cocktail Day

To some, a fruit cocktail might mean that side dish you always got at school lunches. To us? We see a day full of fruity, tasty drinks that will make your guest’s mouth water.

Or, you could try soaking some fresh cut fruit in vodka or rum to put a whole new meaning to fruit cocktails.

May 14 – National Underground America Day

During prohibition, a lot of things were canceled. Of course, top on the no-no list was any establishment that served beer, wine, or liquor. But that didn’t stop a few bars from staying underground and pouring glasses anyway.

On National Underground America Day, celebrate all things underground, but especially the fact that you don’t have to risk going to jail just for doing your job.

May 15 – Take Your Parents To The Playground Day

It’s Take Your Parents To The Playground Day! Talk about role reversals…

Parents probably don’t care to go to the playground (unless there’s a grand baby playing nearby), but you know where they would like to go? The bar. Out for a bite to eat and a cocktail worthy of ordering another.

Encourage your guests to come to the real playground—the bar.

May 16 – National Mimosa Day & National Honor Our LGBTQ Elders Day

I bet our elder LGBTQIA+ crowd would love a mimosa, whether it was National Mimosa Day or not! Well, we have news for them, because today is not only all about that brunch drink we love to sip on, it’s also a day to honor them!

Cancel Monday bridge club! Today you’re running a special on mimosas and asking all your flamboyant friends to join in on the fun.

May 17 – National Idaho Day

How Idaho got its own day, the world may never know.

But you know what everyone knows? The I-da-ho joke. First coworker who makes the lame attempt has to take out the trash.

May 18 – No Dirty Dishes Day

The lunch shift always has been with the dinner bartenders. And the other way around. The main source of conflict? Dirty dishes and an unstocked cooler.

For today bartenders, try to leave your teammates with not one single dirty dish. In honor of No Dirty Dishes Day!

They’ll still probably find something to complain to the manager about, but at least you tried. Good karma, right?

May 19 – National May Ray Day

May Ray Day isn’t another ode to poems. I can see why you thought that, though.

May brings a lot of rays of sunshine and every year on May 19th, people everywhere are basking.

They’re bound to get hot! With all that sunbathing, a summer cocktail is only right. Offer a refreshing, summery drink and let May Ray Day bring in the heat.

May 20 – Pick Strawberries Day

Who has time to go pick strawberries? No one. So offer or create a strawberry-flavored cocktail for your guests instead. Tell them to imagine a fresh strawberry patch while they’re sipping and viola, Pick Strawberries Day comes to your bar.

May 21 – National Waiters and Waitresses Day

More like National Servers Day! Waiter and waitress just sounds so old, right?

Whatever you want to call them, plenty of us bartenders have started out as servers. Our managers saw what he had to offer on the floor and moved us behind the bar.

Today, honor those serving roots you might have! And if you didn’t begin your journey as a server, don’t be that a-hole bartender that looks down on servers because you think you’re higher up in some F&B hierarchy. We all put our pants on the same way.

May 22 – World Paloma Day

Palomas. You either hate or love them. With grapefruit and tequila as the main characters, this drink is zesty and will make your mouth pucker. Or if you’re like me, give you some killer heartburn.

For more on the Paloma, read our full list of the top summer cocktails.

May 23 – Lucky Penny Day

Everyone loves to find lucky pennies. It brings us a sense of hope that a good thing will happen to us.

I know you have extra change lying around! Bartenders always have a weird amount of loose coins. Grab a handful of pennies and place a few of them heads up around your venue or bartop.

May 24 – National Brother’s Day

Brothers can be a lot of things. A sibling, A frat bro, A friend…

Whoever they are to your guests, ask them to swoop up their bro and buy them a drink. No homo.

May 25 – National Wine Day

Reds, whites, still, and sparkling. Only a few ways to describe all the different types of wine.

For National Wine Day, it’s clear that marking wine specials would be the path. But that’s for those who are already behind the bar, or own it!

Those bartenders who are just starting can take National Wine Day as a day to further their wine studies.

May 26 – National Paper Airplane Day

Best paper airplane made gets a drink on the house!

May 27 – Don’t Fry Friday

Being in the sun can reak a lot of havoc on the skin. Other than SPF, what’s the safest way to keep your skin free from harmful rays?

Drink at a bar instead of the boat or beach.

May 28 – National Hamburger Day

Fill the blank: burger and _____.

Correct answer: beer.

May 29 – Indianapolis 500

The Indianapolis 500 loops around every year drawing in a ton of people to watch.

The only way to make driving around in a circle interesting is to get drunk. So the real source of entertainment today is you, bartender!

May 30 – Memorial Day & National Mint Julep Day

On the last Monday in May, we celebrate Memorial Day, a federal holiday. It’s to remember those who died serving their country. Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer here in the U.S.

In honor of those who have fallen, ask other members of the military to come out and have a drink with their spirits in mind.

May 31 – National Smile Day

A bartender without a smile is like a sky with no sun.

And if you can’t even get your bartenders to smile, you might need some help with training. Our instructors at Local Bartending School are known to cure RBF!

Bring in the May Flowers

Stuck like a stick in the mud when it comes to seasonal sips? Check out these top spring cocktails to make! With thirty-one days in May to celebrate and floral signature cocktails, your bar will be blossoming like May flowers.

And remember, if you need help from our team at Local Bartending School with events this spring, our team is ready to make sure you’re set up with bartenders and everything else you might need. Contact us today!

A Bartender’s Calendar: June 2024

Some bars get busy in the summer. Some bars slow down. Either way, Local Bartending School has created a calendar to keep things as if your bar was a beach on a hot summer day.

June is a time for summer cocktails, personal pride, and making a lot of money in tips behind the bar.

Keep reading and you’ll discover thirty days of marketable days hand-selected just for the bar industry!

June 1 – National Olive Day

National Olive Day may seem like one of those randomly weird national celebrations.

But olives are one of the oldest fruits, so it makes sense. Olives have been used for all sorts of things: oil, soap, and of course they’re delicious with a bit of vodka.

Celebrate National Olive Day by running a drink special on dirty martinis. Hold the vermouth for me though, please!

June 2 – National Moonshine Day & National Leave the Office Early Day

Every year on June 2nd, office workers are nudged to leave a little early to enjoy the start of summer with a little rest and relaxation.

Leave the Office Early Day starts the conversation of shorter work days and the benefits that come out of them. And recent years with hybrid work being a huge topic, a bunch of people might be leaving the office early today.

That gives them a bit more downtime to visit bars just like yours. So on June 2nd, ask those office workers to come enjoy their extra horror two with you.

Plus, it’s National Moonshine Day, too! A short day of work and a big glass of moonshine? Sounds like my southern family’s everyday routine…

June 3 – World Cider Day & National Egg Day

It’s both World Cider Day and National Egg Day, which in the bar world leaves us with two marketing options – highlight ciders or cocktails with eggs.

Drinkers either love ciders or hate them. They either love cocktails with eggs or think they taste like drinking snot.

Sounds like a day to get the conversation going. Nothing sparks a debate quite like a dividing topic. See 2020-2021.

June 4 – National Bubbly Day

Mark the first Saturday in June down in the books! Summer weekend brunches have officially started. Let’s pop bottles, not only because it’s a great day, but also National Bubbly Day!

Champagne already sells like wildfire at brunch, imagine if you gave people even more of a reason to drink some champs.

June 5 – National Popular Delusions Day

Some of us have a bit more than others, but we all have moments of delusion. Some we’ve fully accepted as a society, like the five-second rule.

Whatever delusion you’re carrying around, today’s the day to let it shine. Talk about it with your regulars! Ask them what their favorite myth or delusion is. Just watch out for those flat earthers, they’ll get ya.

June 6 – National Yo-Yo Day

I remember using yo-yos as a weapon against my brother’s incessant attacks. Ahh, memories. But bars aren’t the place for weapons or fights with siblings.

So for National Yo-Yo Day, maybe a good old-fashioned competition is in order. Best trick gets full bragging rights for winning (perhaps the lamest competition ever) and a certificate good for a few drinks.

June 7 – VCR Day

First yo-yos now VCRs. June is taking us Millenials on a nostalgic ride!

Some of your guests who are freshly 21 might not know what a VCR is.

Celebrate VCR Day at the bar by:

● Naming cocktails after your favorite movies on VCR

● Bringing a VCR to your bar and ask young guests what it is

● Playing 80s and 90s movie soundtracks

June 8 – National Best Friends Day & National Name Your Poison Day

Folks come into the bar with their cousins, bosses, and or parents. But there’s no combo or group that parties like a few best friends. They order endless drinks, roast each other, and laugh super loudly so it seems like your bartop is Disney, the best place on earth.

For National Best Friends Day, encourage all the besties to celebrate their friendships with a few drinks at your bar.

It’s also National Name Your Poison Day, a common phrase to ask your guest what they want to drink. To me, it sounds like how a pirate bartender would talk.

June 9 – International Dark ‘n Stormy® Day

We are celebrating International Dark ‘n Stormy® Day. It was made by an accidental collaboration of a Bermudian rum maker family and seasick sailors. Ginger beer works for nausea, and rum helps with everything else. Shipmates created a cocktail that’s still around.

June 10 – Herbs and Spices Day & Ballpoint Pen Day

Without herbs, spices, and ballpoint pens we’d have boring cocktails and no money.

So Herbs and Spices Day, along with Ballpoint Pen Day is an important, yet peculiar day to celebrate as a bartender.

And in honor of today, we hope not one guest jacks your favorite pen.

June 11 – National Rosé Day

This is probably the oldest variety of wines. It dates back to 600 BC. Most rose wines are made from red grapes, and they are very versatile.

The color of rosé wine will be lighter than red and deeper than white. A rosé’s color depends on how long grape skins stay in contact with juice, also called maceration.

Rose wines can also be sparkling or semi-sparkling, with varying levels of sweetness and dryness.

There’s no better day to serve rosé all day than National Rosé Day.

June 12 – National Loving Day

National Loving Day brings out the warm fuzzies in all of us.

Ask your regulars and guests to bring the people they love out for a drink. There’s really no better way to show love.

June 13 – National Kitchen Klutzes of America Day

Clumsy coworkers. Behind the bar, they’re a havoc. In the kitchen, even worse.

For National Kitchen Klutzes of America Day, instead of giving them shit for their lack of coordination, give them a break. Without their constant entertainment, we’d be a bit bored honestly. We’d have more glassware, but that’s a different story.

June 14 – National Bourbon Day

Bourbon Day celebrates our country’s official spirit.

Bourbon must meet certain standards and be made in a certain region to earn its name, just like Scotch and Cognac. Whiskey can only be called Bourbon when it’s distilled in the United States. It’s illegal for distillers to call whiskey “Bourbon” if they don’t meet certain criteria.

Now you know a bit more about Bourbon banter. And people who drink whiskey love to banter about their drink of choice.

When marketing on socials, don’t forget to use the hashtag #NationalBourbonDay to bring new faces in!

June 15 – Smile Power Day

Smile Power Day is all about showing off those pearly whites, which we do plenty of. But we’ve also seen bartenders who don’t smile. Actually, I had a regular who never wanted me to smile and talk down to him in a Russian accent, but hey that’s not the type of power we’re talking about.

We’re talking about the power behind the smile you serve, day in and day out. And really, that’s what today celebrates!

June 16 – Nursing Assistants Day

Traditionally, National Career Nurse Assistants Day kicks off National Nursing Assistants Week, which takes place in the second week of June. Let’s take this chance to say thank you to these entry-level staff who serve as a link between patients and doctors, and who devote their lives to helping others with a drink!

June 17 – National Take Back the Lunch Break Day

Lunch breaks, while we’re used to not getting them, the rest of the world is focused on getting theirs back today.

You should let those nine-to-fivers know that the real lunch break is just a trip to the bar.

Nothing like a quick beer and shot to get them through ‘till 5 o’clock rolls around. Just don’t tell their boss at happy hour their entire sales team was grabbing snake bites during lunch!

June 18 – National Splurge Day & International Panic Day

Encourage your bar guests to splurge on their favorite high-end drinks! I mean, it’s National Splurge Day, people!

And if their little moment of self-care (albeit in the form of expensive liquor) ends up causing a panic when they get their bill, reassure them that it’s also International Panic Day so it’s only fitting.

June 19 – Father’s Day

Without dad’s none of us would be here. We wouldn’t be behind the bar trying to prove to him that, “Yes, dad, this is a real job!”

We also probably wouldn’t serve as much draft beer or whiskeys. So on that note, we’re saying Father’s Day should be a date to markdown.

Here are a few ideas to celebrate daddy’s day:

● Run a promotion for stereotypical dad-like drinks

● Crack dad jokes

● Host a Father’s Day event, encouraging your audience to BYOD (bring your own dad, duh)

● Post pictures of you and your staff’s father figures

June 20 – National Take Your Cat to Work Day

Yesterday, people brought their dads to the bar. Today, you’re bringing your cat. Why? It’s National Take Your Cat to Work Day, of course.

Do you think you’d get fired if you brought your cat to work?

June 21 – Summer Solstice

It’s officially summer, kids. Your bar might be slowing down for the season or gearing up for peak. One thing that people want, no matter how busy the bar might be, is a cocktail that screams, “Summer is here!”

Check out the top summer cocktail recipes, hand-picked like ripe fruits by the team at Local Bartending School.

June 22 – National Kissing Day

Did you know some people don’t like to kiss? Yep, they think all that mouth spit is worse than licking a dirty, sticky well.

That makes the bar the perfect place to make out. For those who don’t like it, they can grab a drink to make things a bit easier. And for those that do, well then a good drunk makeout is just the thing for National Kissing Day.

Turn down the lights and give your guests the perfect spot for smoochin’.

June 23 – National Hydration Day

Here’s a tip for National Hydration Day.

Keep your guests hydrated. Not only will they feel better, but they’ll also be able to stay longer, order more drinks, and probably come back tomorrow for more.

June 24 – National Take Your Dog to Work Day

Dogs didn’t last too long before they got their day to go to work with the humans. Jealous little beasts, aren’t they?

I’m thinking that dogs at work might be a tad more well-received by bosses than our feline friends. Bar owners, you can solve the debate! Comment below, would you let your staff bring their pets to work?

June 25 – National Catfish Day

Imagine how many catfish are caught at the bar! On National Catfish Day, be extra cautious of people pretending to be who they aren’t. And to be the best bartender ever, always warn a regular if they’re about to be catfished. You can be the lookout, know what I’m saying?

June 26 – Forgiveness Day

Forgiving someone is hard to do, but June 26th comes around every year and asks us to forget.

So in honor of Forgiveness Day, preach forgiveness to your guests, regulars, and social media audience, but of course, remind them forgiveness is easier with a bit of help from their bartender.

June 27 – National Orange Blossom Day

Kick rocks, mimosa. Sayonara, screwdriver. It’s National Orange Blossom Day and the only thing going in orange juice today is gin.

Don’t know basic cocktails like an orange blossom? Get fully trained on all the classics and become certified as a bartender with Local Bartending School.

June 28 – Paul Bunyan Day

Described as a giant and a lumberjack of unusual skill, Paul Bunyan is one of the most famous North American folklore heroes.

The story of Paul Bunyan is a tall tale, a description of sorts that’s a bit hard to believe. And honestly, during my bartending career, I’ve told plenty of tall tales where I was the main character.

So, watch out Paul Bunyan, us bartenders are coming after your legend.

June 29 – Hug Holiday

Imagine a world where instead of a beverage napkin, we greet stranger guests with a hug. Try it out on June 29th, Hug Holiday and let us know how that goes for you.

June 30 – National Bomb Pop Day & Social Media Day

Bomb pops scream “Amurica!” They taste like running toward the ice cream truck on a hot summer day.

Grenadine, vodka, and blue curacao can be layered in a shot glass and it’ looks exactly like a bomb pop! It’ll be super IG-worthy, and since it’s both National Bomb Pop Day and Social Media Day too, we think a post is most definitely in order.

Summer Days, Sippin’ Away

Here’s to June! May it bring you more than perfectly timed LGBTQ ads.

Use all of these wacky, fun holidays in your conversations with regulars, marketing strategy for your bar business, or keep them in your back pocket for trivial knowledge.

And remember, if you need help from our team at Local Bartending School with training, their instructors are ready to answer whatever questions you might have. Contact us today!

A Bartender’s Calendar: July 2024

We’re in the middle of summer and things are starting to heat up. And the all black uniform they make us wear behind the bar doesn’t help either…

You might be slammed with tourists, beach bums, and of course your regulars asking you for summer cocktails to cool them off.

Bring in even more heat (and increase your check averages!) with our July calendar for bartenders and bar owners. With every day being a national holiday or worldwide celebration, it’s your chance to market these funky occasions and let off a little steam. Your guests will have fun and you will too—all while making more money in sales, tips, and revenue.

Things to Celebrate at Your Bar All Month Long

Cell Phone Courtesy. Cell phones at the bar can be annoying! People pay attention to their phones more than the bartender. I bet your phone can’t make a whisky sour like we can…National Watermelon Month. Watermelon is refreshing, light, and with vodka can make a great summer cocktail to suggest!National Anti-Boredom Month. If your bar is boring, keep reading.Unlucky Month for Weddings. Watch out, event planners and bartenders, don’t let your bridezilla (or hubzilla!) find out that they picked an awful month to get married. Just keep serving those cocktails. Or hire Local Bartending School to turn things from unlucky to lucky with their event services.

July 1 – International Joke Day

Jokes are an everyday thing for us. We’re constantly surrounded by lame jokes; from our coworkers, guests, and sometimes our own brains.

I know I’ve told plenty of lame jokes and immediately regretted the words that came out of my mouth.

But on International Joke Day, you get a pass. All jokes are fair game today so let your worst ones out while you can.

July 2 – I Forgot Day

That $20 bank you’re supposed to have as a part of your uniform you always *forget*? July 2nd is the only day your manager can’t write you up.

I Forgot Day gives everyone, yourself and your regulars, permission to forget and forgive. Give them a place to do all that forgetting—your bar.

July 3 – National Stay Out of the Sun Day

Sure, summer is about soaking up sun on the beach.

National Stay Out of the Sun Day reminds everyone that all those UV rays can be dangerous.

Your bar is the perfect, shady place for those beachgoers. Run a few specials on summer cocktails and they won’t miss the sun a bit!

July 4 – Independence Day

It’s the Fourth of July and those of us in the United States celebrate our freedom by wearing cut-off jorts and white tees. ‘Cause you know… ‘Murica?

On top of dressing like Joe Dirt, people like to drink! It’s a day for a barbeque for some, but for the rest, the bar is the place to be! Be sure to offer incentives like free shots, food specials, or something super on-theme like red, white, and blue shots!

July 5 – National Workaholics Day

The more we work, the more money we make. Which can turn us bartenders into workaholics.

So bar friends and owners, if you can, try to take a break! Don’t drive yourself into the ground working all the time.

Those who are behind the bar today, you have plenty of workaholics to tend to! Post on your socials that it’s National Workaholics Day using hashtags and plant the seed in someone’s brain that they might be overdoing the whole hard work thing.

July 6 – Take Your Webmaster to Lunch Day

Web design and development seem easy but aren’t. Hey, that sounds familiar right!? People think that about bartenders all the time.

That’s why Take Your Webmaster to Lunch Day was created; they serve a proper meal for all they do. And while free food is always great, a drink is even better. Why not encourage people to bring their web gurus in for a drink today?

July 7 – National Dive Bar Day

Dive bars, it’s your time to shine! Or not, if your style is more of a dusty dive bar.

If you own a dive bar, throw an event to showcase your unique and, at times, unglamorous venue! Drop those prices even lower, and the lights too. But don’t you dare mop those sticky floors. That’s what really keeps the people coming back.

July 8 – Be a Kid Again Day

Ah, to be a kid again! The closest feeling people can find is to get drunk. Which keeps you in business. So today ask your friends, guests, and regulars to come be a kid and get a little tipsy.

July 9 – Collector Car Appreciation Day

Every year, Collector Car Appreciation Day raises awareness about restoring classic cars as well as collecting them.

We see bar venues and owners partner with local car collectors all the time, for car shows and the like. It’s a great way to bring in some new traffic and boost sales. Plus, those car people always like a drink in hand while they’re showing off.

July 10 – National Piña Colada Day & Teddy Bear Picnic Day

Piña coladas taste like vacation, so it’s easy for your regulars to pretend they’re on holiday even though they’re stuck at home.

On National Piña Colada Day, run a special on this tropical treat! Or, you can brush up on the recipe here. Don’t even know how to go about making a piña colada? You might need a bit of hands-on help from our instructors at Local Bartending School!

We can’t skip over the fact that it’s also Teddy Bear Picnic Day. Setting up a teddy bear picnic with glasses of champs to top it off—totally weird or just weird enough?

July 11 – World Population Day & National Mojito Day

World Population Day happens every year, bringing our awareness to problems caused by population issues.

But we don’t see a problem; the more people there are on the earth to drink, the better! Plus, we as bartenders might be adding to the population issue by encouraging things in the romance department, so we should probably not bring too much attention to the issue, eh? Two words, job security.

So instead, celebrate something safe today. Luckily you have an easy choice because it’s also National Mojito Day.

July 12 – Cow Appreciation Day & Paper Bag Day

There’s no better way for people to show their gratitude for cows than to bring their beloved Bessie in for a drink.

Okay, so we’re not serving cows on Cow Appreciation Day. But we can appreciate them by opting for a plant-based option today in our drinks that call for cream!

Not into thanking cows? That’s cool, too.

It happens to be Paper Bag Day as well! And while people are used to getting their liquor in a brown paper bag, think if they got their cocktail in one, too.

July 13 – Gruntled Workers Day

Unlike the name might suggest, Gruntled Workers Day is a celebration of all the positive things about one’s work.

Here are some things I love about bartending:

I can talk about R-Rated topicsTime goes by fastThe money is *chef kiss*Coworkers are fun and weird (it’s the best)Post-shift drinks

What do you love about your job? Let us know in the comments!

July 14 – National Grand Marnier Day & National Nude Day

No one is showing up in their birthday suit and not getting fired, so let’s not with National Nude Day, eh?

National Grand Marnier Day sounds like that’s the path for us behind the bar.

If you don’t already know a bit about this orange liqueur, Grand Marnier is a brand of liqueur from France. It’s a mixture of Cognac brandy, sugar, and bitter orange essence distilled. And works great in signature cocktails due to its powerful flavor and ABV.

July 15 – Be A Dork Day

Good bartenders let their true personalities shine, even if at their core they’re a dork.

But I get it if you don’t want to let everyone know about your dork-side. However, July 15th is Be a Dork Day. So feel free to be a dork! Your guests will probably love and start being weird, too. We’re all just big dorks on the inside.

July 16 – World Snake Day

Picture Snakes on a Plane, but in a bar.

So maybe snakes don’t really mix with bars. Unless they’re served as shots of tequila with lime and salt of course. That’s how bartenders do World Snake Day

A snakebite is a popular shot your guests might order. It’s basically a shot of tequila, but first, your guests lick some salt, take the shot, and then bite into a lime right after. They’re a quick way to get things started at a celebration or event.

July 17 – World Emoji Day & National Ice Cream Day

Turn people from to with a drink made by the best bartenders at the best bars—yours!

Another reason to smile? It’s National Ice Cream Day. Offer your best boozy ice cream or frozen cocktails in celebration.

July 18 – World Listening Day

We’re constantly listening to people. A lot of the time, bartending is compared to psychology. We lend an ear to all sorts of people in all sorts of emotional states. Basically, our listening skills are on point so we should be teaching people a thing or two about the craft on World Listening Day.

July 19 – National Daiquiri Day

When you share the history of daiquiris on National Daiquiri Day, your regulars will find it hard to believe how the Daiquiri came to be. Whip one up and tell this story while they sip on sunshine.

During the Spanish-American War, men worked in mines off the coast of Cuba in 1898. In a village named Daiquiri, an American engineer supervised a mining operation. Cox and his employees would meet after work every day at the Venus bar.

Cox mixed Bacardi, lime, and sugar in a tall glass of ice one day. Eventually, the drink became a staple in Havana, named after the Daiquiri mines. There was eventually shaved ice added, sometimes lemon or limes, becoming the various types of daiquiris we all know and serve today.

July 20 – National Hot Dog Day

It’s National Hot Dog Day and we’re celebrating the oblong, phallically shaped food that hits different after last call. Hot dogs are a staple to a proper night out at the pubs and clubs.

Now, your bar might not serve bar food. But you’re always serving funny facts, right? Well, here’s a fact to top all facts: bologna is just a slice of giant hot dog.

July 21 – Legal Drinking Age Day

Everyone remembers their first legal shot of alcohol and the bartender who poured it.

July 21 is Legal Drinking Age Day in the United States.

We often tend to get nostalgic and raise a toast to our first drinks. Moreover, it’s a day to promote responsible drinking among young people.

We’re also talking about alcoholism and DUI on this day. Your main job? Make sure everyone you serve is 21.

Your guests can celebrate Legal Drinking Age Day by relaxing with a drink after a long day, if they’re old enough. Duh.

July 22 – Mango Day

Mangoes are in season and nothing beats a juicy, fresh mango. Except maybe if you make it into a fruity cocktail.

For Mango Day, show the fruits of your labor and mix up a summery, mango cocktail. Rum and tequila work great!

July 23 – National Gorgeous Grandma Day

Put the word out, it’s National Gorgeous Grandma Day!

Don’t let your guests take her to somewhere boring. Ask your regulars to grab their gorg granny and bring her into the bar for a drink.

July 24 – National Tequila Day

Mix up a margarita, Paloma, or a mamasita to celebrate the day! National Tequila Day honors one of the world’s favorite (and pretty old) liquor.

You can run specials on tequila or come up with your own recipe using your mixology skills.

July 25 – National Hire a Veteran Day & National Wine and Cheese Day

National Hire a Veteran Day is exactly what it sounds like. So bar owners, when you’re looking through applicants, keep an eye out for those who put their life on the line.

On July 25th, we’re also taking part in National Wine and Cheese Day! If your restaurant bar has a meat and cheese plate, you’ve got to offer a deal for any wine ordered along with it. Just have some wine to offer? I think that’s enough for some people to enjoy today.

July 26 – National All or Nothing Day

National All or Nothing Day reminds everyone to keep going and give it their all.

Well, sometimes it’s hard to keep going behind the bar with all the stuff we deal with: lousy tips, shitty people, and long hours.

So what keeps us going? Those crazy moments of fun that make us come back each shift for more.

Now, for your regulars and guests, you can give them a proper bit of motivation… a drink!

July 27 – National Scotch Day & Take Your Pants for a Walk Day

Because technically we take our pants on a walk every day, we’ll skip right to National Scotch Day instead.

Scotch must be made in Scotland for it to be considered scotch. Alcohol content can’t exceed 94.8%, must be fermented from malted barley, aged in oak barrels for at least three years, and must have an ABV of less than 94.8%.

All those requirements in mind, your guests can enjoy scotch anytime, anywhere, but especially on National Scotch Day and especially when it’s suggested and priced right.

July 28 – National Refreshment Day

July 28 is right smack in the middle of summer. It’s hot and people need a refresher. Hince, National Refreshment Day every year.

Offer these summer cocktails that are refreshing, fruity, and easy to sell.

July 29 – Rain Day

Rain doesn’t seem like much to recognize, but without it, our world would look much different. We might be dead. So would our bars. What else is there to do on a rainy day?

So today, celebrate the type of weather that brings people to bars all the time seeking a dry place to chill.

Wear rain boots to workCreate a rain-themed rink

July 30 – International Day of Friendship

Without friendship, our lives would be a lot duller. Especially at the bar. What would we bartenders do without bachelorette parties, birthdays, and big screaming groups of BFFs?

On International Day of Friendship, post on your socials that you’re celebrating friendship at the bar and to come out with their chums!

July 31 – Harry Potter’s Birthday & Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day

Harry Potter was born a wizard on July 31st, so you know you have to offer some hot buttered rum to serve as butterbeer. Cheers to Harry and your Potterhead bar-goers.

And as uncommon as Harry’s magic are these instruments. Share them with your guests as fun facts:

ThereminSea OrganCello Horn

Tip Temperatures are Rising!

Your tip jar won’t lie with all these bar holidays in July. They work amazingly for social media posts, advertisements, or to spark up a conversation like fireworks. But the good ones, not the anti-climatic duds.

Need help planning a summer event? Local Bartending School not only offers bartending courses but they’re also known for their event staffing, too! Reach out to us today, we’re ready to make your event a hit.

A Bartender’s Calendar: August 2024

A new month has rolled around and that means it’s time for another calendar for bartenders and bar owners.

Your bar might be ramping down after the tourist season or gearing up for students coming back in town for fall semester.

Either way, Local Bartending School is here to keep your bar packed like a lecture hall. We’re also here to teach, certify, or train bartenders!

Here are thirty-one days perfect for marketing ideas on your socials, sandwich boards, or just fun facts to drop when you want to show off your smarts.

Things to Celebrate at Your Bar All Month Long

Peach Month. A peach cocktail in the summer? Consider it sold.International Pirate Month. Do you think talking like a pirate all month will make you more money?Romance Awareness Month. Love can suck as much as a badly made Long Island, but it can also be as sweet as wine. Either way, cocktails are usually involved.

August 1 – National Girlfriend Day

Today is all about the ladies! And don’t expect a bunch of dudes taking their chicks out for a round of drinks.

National Girlfriend Day celebrates sisterhood and the bond shared between gal pals! So gear up to make a bunch of cocktails that are popular with the ladies. Ask your veteran bartender which drinks you should brush up on or highlight as a drink special.

August 2 – National Night Out

Every year, citizens, organizations, and the police work together to improve neighborhood relationships between the people and law enforcement.

How can you get involved? Get in touch with your local townspeople to join! It’s a great way to get your name out within the community, plus people will definitely want to drink on a holiday called ‘National Night Out’.

August 3 – National Watermelon Day

National Watermelon Day is a timely celebration, and you can’t go wrong by offering a cocktail like Boozy Salted Watermelon Juice!

Right in the middle of a hot summer day, nothing quite beats a juicy, sweet watermelon. Well, nothing except if there’s a bit of booze involved.

August 4 – National White Wine Day

Do you need any ideas on how to celebrate National White Wine Day? The answer seems obvious—highlight and run drink specials on your best house white.

August 5 – International Beer Day & Work Like a Dog Day

It’s International Beer Day and Work Like a Dog Day… fitting because it’s beer that keeps us bartenders working like dogs.

Yup, bar-goers love their beer so much that the overall beer market in 2020 was over $94 billion! They didn’t need an extra reason to chug their favorite brew, but today they have no reason to say no to a beer at the bar!

August 6 – International Hangover Day & National Fresh Breath Day

Also fitting that International Hangover Day joins us the morning after we just celebrated Beer Day.

But you know what they say, “hair of the dog!” Welcome those hungover zombies with a cocktail that will cure their ailments. We just hope they brushed their teeth for National Fresh Breath Day, too.

August 7 – Sisters Day

Did anyone else just sing the theme song to Sister, Sister?

Sisters Day, as you might guess, celebrates the bond between well… sisters! There’s nothing quite like sharing (or stealing?) clothes, the immense hatred of f*#& boys, and a love for pinot grigio.

Encourage your regulars, social media audience, and friends to call their sis and bring them to the bar!

August 8 – National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day

Sprouted from an abundance of produce, National Sneak Some Zucchini Onto Your Neighbor’s Porch Day gives everyone a chance to get rid of the excess.

You might not have any extra squash laying around, unless you work at some crazy craft cocktail place, but today makes for an awesomely named zucchini-themed cocktail. We can picture it now, the ‘Zucchini Porch’—your next mixology masterpiece.

Interested in mixology? Local Bartending School and their master mixologist instructors can teach you the swing of crafting original cocktails, at your home or online!

August 9 – Book Lovers Day

Here’s an unpopular opinion: the bar is a great place to read a book.

Sure, if the reader can tune out the screams coming from the front bar and the lull of the random music playing, it’s a great place! Some bar-readers say they like all the noise; it’s too quiet at home or in their hotel room.

That’s why on Book Lovers Day, they get no shame for sticking their nose in both a book and a glass of champagne.

Take things a step further by hosting a book club event or author signing!

August 10 – Lazy Day

August 10 will go down in the books as the day you play The Lazy Song, don’t do anything, and hope you don’t get fired by your boss.

Bar owners, would you let your staff slack on Lazy Day for the sake of celebrating?

August 11 – Son and Daughter Day

For years, parents try to get their kids to make good choices. Go to school, meet enriching friends, and avoid alcohol until they’re of legal age.

Well on Son and Daughter Day, parents everywhere should celebrate with their now-adult children at the one place they wanted them to stay away from—the bar.

August 12 – National Kool-Aid Day

Kool-Aid was invented in 1927 by Edwin Perkins of Hastings, Nebraska. And that’s where they celebrate Kool-Aid every year with a three-day-long celebration. For the rest of us, one day remembering our favorite childhood summer cocktail will do.

Of course, as bartenders, our favorite thing to do is make our favorite childhood drinks into cocktails. And honestly, Kool-Aid is the perfect base for a sweet, thirst-quenching summer punch.

August 13 – National Prosecco Day

Patio season is slipping between our fingers. As your guests lay in the last bit of sun like a group of house cats, offer them your favorite house sparkling wine for National Prosecco Day.

August 14 – National Creamsicle Day

Ahh, another summer treat that has us, and inevitably your regulars, craving our youth—and a drink that will remind us of it—the creamsicle.

Your guest will remember when the days where streetlamps came on meant it’s time to go home when they sip their creamsicle-inspired cocktail.

August 15 – Relaxation Day

We’re going to slow down and relax on August 15th. Today is a day to relax and take care of ourselves. As much as we live a lightning-fast and yes, oftentimes hectic life, National Relaxation Day is worthy of celebrating if you ask us.

Bartenders and bar owners, if you’re off today, enjoy the break and max-relax.

For those of you still hustling behind the bar, allow your guests to enjoy Relaxation Day with a bit of libation.

August 16 – National Tell A Joke Day

Jokes are always being served at the bar. Drunk people love them, and they make work so much more enjoyable.

Keep on telling your best riddles, jokes, and puns, especially today because it’s National Tell a Joke Day.

You can even craft original cocktails named after popular jokes like a “Knock, Knock Joke”, a whisky aged in oak.

August 17 – Neighbor Night

To live a happy and fun-filled life, it is important to have good neighbors. Having good neighbors to go to the bar with is even more important.

Encourage your locals to be all neighbor-y with each other, since it is Neighbor Night. Offer group specials and local discounts.

August 18 – Bad Poetry Day

Even bad art is art, and today all over the world people celebrate the worst poetry to ever be scribbled on a bev nap.

August 19 – World Humanitarian Day

The whole world joins in every year on August 19 to honor and recognize those who are dedicating, and sometimes losing, their life for humanitarian efforts.

As a service provider, today’s a simple celebration. Simply be a bit more kind, intentional, and open to others for the sake of human compassion and World Humanitarian Day.

August 20 – World Mosquito Day

Mosquitoes are as annoying as fruit flies. Maybe there are no mosquitoes in your bar, but there might be some fruit flies. Take today to 86 those annoying pests.

August 21 – National Senior Citizens Day

Hey, your guest’s grandma called and she wants to come out to your bar with all her friends for National Senior Citizens Day.

Be ready to talk loud and be tipped low, my friends. This day will be sure to go down in the books. But hopefully not a funeral guest book anytime soon.

August 22 – Be An Angel Day

Some bartenders play the bad-cop role. And we’re not saying there’s anything wrong with that. But some days, you have to be a good cop, an angel if you will. But especially on Be An Angel Day!

And if being nice is just not in your bartending trick repertoire, a solid alternative option is highlighting a neat pour of Angel’s Envy, a go-to for some bourbon and rye drinkers.

August 23 – Cheap Flight Day

Drinking and flying just go together. Folks head to airport bars before their flights out of nerves or excitement. And people buy cheap flights when they’re drunk.

On Cheap Flight Day, a mythical day for a financial break on flight tickets, remind your bartop of that trip they’ve been talking to you about!

Maybe you have some tip money put away for a vacation fund? Book that cheap flight, you deserve it!

August 24 – Iconic American Restaurants Day

Iconic American restaurants usually have iconic, memorable bars. How many of you have worked at a popular franchise bar?

If you still do, it’s your day to shine! Iconic American Restaurants Day is celebrated all around the world, and now your friends and regulars, too. Ask them to join you for a few rounds for this 100% Made-in-USA day.

August 25 – Kiss and Make Up Day

The best place to kiss and make up? Your bar with a cocktail in hand.

August 26 – Women’s Equality Day

A century ago today, the United States Congress passed the 19th Amendment, giving all sexes in the nation equal voting rights. Our annual celebration of this right is National Women’s Equality Day.

So, throw a ladies’ night in honor of those who run the world—girls.

August 27 – Just Because Day

If your guest is having a hard time deciding on whether or not to order a second round, tell them they have to. Why? Just because.

August 28 – National Red Wine Day

Red wine, depending on which type of bar you work at, might be one of the things you pour the most.

On National Red Wine Day, you might expect the same. Lean into the trend and offer specials celebrating your best house red.

August 29 – National Lemon Juice Day

Lemon juice is the oil to our bartending machine. Without it, we’d have no tangy cocktails to serve.

For National Lemon Juice Day, suggest or run a special on your favorite drinks that have a splash or two of lemon!

August 30 – Toasted Marshmallow Day

Fall is right around the corner now. It’s almost as if we can smell the toasted marshmallows for S’mores now… wait! It’s just this delicious Toasted S’mores Martini.

August 31 – Eat Outside Day

It might be the last chance to eat outside with the cooler air approaching. Keep that patio open just one more day for Eat Outside Day and push your guests to take advantage of the last of summer.

Make Money All August Long

There you have it, bar buds! A whole month of ideas to make an extra bit of money while you’re working.

And remember, if you want to go back to school this fall, Local Bartending School’s highly-ranked instructors are ready to welcome you in a bartending class. Contact us today!

A Bartender’s Calendar: September 2024

The days are getting shorter but that doesn’t mean the sun needs to set on your bar, too. September is a month full of reasons to head out for a drink, so make sure your guests know what’s going on.

Just for bartenders and bar owners, Local Bartending School has raked up national holidays and odd celebrations. And like a pile of leaves, we’re about to jump in and have some fun.

Pro Tip: Use these days in your marketing strategy or to keep conversations colorful. Plus, when it’s National Beer Lover’s Day, people have a hard time saying no to their favorite brew.

September 1 – National No Rhyme Nor Reason Day

Sometimes you don’t need a wacky holiday to sell an extra round or two to your guests. On National No Rhyme Nor Reason Day, there truly is no reason for folks to say no to another drink.

September 2 – National Lazy Mom’s Day

Lazy moms have a favorite place to go (other than the couch, of course), and that’s to the bar to avoid their parenting duties.

Invite your local mommies to come be lazy with drink specials that will make them forget about their toddler troubles.

September 3 – National Tailgating Day

Just because tailgating happens near a stadium, doesn’t mean your stadium-less bar has to be deprived of a mass amount of people drinking.

Your bar has one thing better than their truck with its gate down. And that’s huge TVs, food they don’t have to cook, and discounted pitchers of beer.

September 4 – Bring Your Manners to Work Day

In case you often forget to bring them, today is Bring Your Manners to Work Day. ‘Please’ and ‘thank you’ should be at the front of your vocabulary today. You’ll be serving politeness and plenty of drinks.

September 5 – Labor Day

Nothing like a day off of work! Not for you, baby bartender. Once you start your bartending career, it’s bye-bye to those holidays you used to know and love.

Your patrons will be soaking up this long weekend, so be ready for the Sunday before Labor Day to be an extra Saturday night. And I don’t know about you, but I always welcome an extra Saturday to my bank account.

September 6 – Fight Procrastination Day

Procrastination killed the cat. Or was that curiosity? Damn it, I could never keep that one straight.

All I know is… procrastination is the death of proper ticket times, quick closes, and clean dishes.

Fight Procrastination Day is a time to fight that urge to talk to the host or go for a cigarette break, just get your work done!

September 7 – National Beer Lovers Day

Flash the beer signal! It’s National Beer Lovers Day and that means making sure your keg lines are in tip-top shape to pour your guests’ beloved brewski all day long.

September 8 – National Ampersand Day

Call drinks have an ampersand in them! They’re quick to make, tasty for your guest, and hard to deny since you have them on special today!

September 9 – Stand Up To Cancer Day

“Cancer sucks!”

“Fuck Cancer!”

Standing up to cancer isn’t easy. But it makes us feel better to cuss at it. But, more powerful than cussing is the comradery of people.

On Stand Up to Cancer Day, encourage those who are battling cancer or are passionate about the cause to gather or host an event at your bar venue.

September 10 – International Canned Cocktail Day

Canned cocktails are perfect for on the go or those otherwise obsessed with drinking out of aluminum. Crazy, but one of the things I learned as a bartender is that some humans have an aversion to putting their mouths on glass rims. Have you served a guest like that? I’d be stoked to hear about it!

September 11 – 911 Remembrance/Patriot Day

Every year, the United States mourns the loss of thousands of people and the trauma that still ensues in New Yorkers.

Sure, it may seem a little bleak to remember a day that caused so much pain. But healing can be found when people get together, talk about their feelings, and of course sip on their favorite drinks together.

Bar owners, if you’re truly wanting to make an impact you can partner with an organization that supports 9/11 victims and their families by hosting an event at your venue!

September 12 – National Police Woman Day

Lil Wayne knows the significance of a lady cop, so should you! They deserve a drink for protecting us and having more guts than some men.

Invite all of those Mrs. Officers out for a night of good ‘ole R&R.

September 13 – Defy Superstition Day

Flair bartenders defy gravity and seem like supernatural beings every day, it doesn’t need to be Defy Superstition Day.

Today, let your flair tricks fly!

Looking for a flair bartending course? Seek no further, bartender friend. Local Bartending School is now accepting students for their flair class!

September 14 – National Live Creative Day

Bartenders are creative and artists in our own right. We mix and toy with different flavor profiles to create unique and delicious cocktails.

On Live Creative Day, show off your most creative concoctions on social or at your bar.

September 15 – National Creme de Menthe Day

Let’s be honest with each other. This is a safe space, everyone. I know that bottle of creme de menthe just kinda hangs out waiting for someone to order a minty drink.

Well today, it’s going to get some action. After all, it is Creme de Menthe Day.

September 16 – Working Parents Day

Back in the day, not every parent worked outside of the home. Now? That’s all we know!

For those who don’t have mini-humans, It may seem like no feat to work and parent full time, but I’m here to tell you otherwise.

Working parents deserve more than a day of celebration. They deserve a night out at the bar, child-free, with cheap drinks. And if you ask them, they might say they deserve a large sum of money, too.

September 17 – Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest 187th official start is September 17th, 2024. So get your Dirndls and leather pants out! You’ve got beer to pour and a terrible German accent to fake all season long.

September 18 – Wife Appreciation Day

Wives deserve to be treated nicely every day (or any partner for that matter!) but as they should, they get a bit of extra attention on Wife Appreciation Day.

Let your guests and social media audience know you’re celebrating today with cocktails perfect for couples.

September 19 – Talk Like a Pirate Day

Have you ever wanted to spend a whole day talking like a pirate? Here’s your chance! Never mind totally weirding your guests out or anything… It’s Talk Like a Pirate Day for Pirate Pete’s sake!

Here’s a fun fact to share with your guest. It’s also Meow Like a Pirate Day.

Can your cat meow like a matey? We need to see it!

September 20 – National Punch Day

Punch Day doesn’t mean you get to punch the guests that annoy you. That’s illegal. Don’t do that. Ever.

Rather, National Punch Day is about rum punch! That college party staple that our region dubbed, ‘jungle juice’. Here are tons of rum punch recipes for you to serve to your regulars in honor of Punch Day.

September 21 – World Gratitude Day

Expect an extra bit of thanks today from those who join you at your bar. But only if you let them know it’s World Gratitude Day.

Show your appreciation to your customers today, too! They’ll probably take a free drink as a token of gratitude.

September 22 – National Singles Day

Singles deserve a day just like the rest of those cuffed up in a relationship.

But when you invite all those single people out, expect to highlight different drinks than you did for your twosomes.

September 23 – Celebrate Bisexuality Day

Putting the B in LGBTQ, it’s Bisexual Day!

Be an ally for the community and provide a safe place for everyone to mingle at your bar.

September 24 – World’s Biggest Coffee Morning

Over 200,000 people participated in the World’s Biggest Coffee Morning in 1991. It has now raised more than 25 million dollars for Macmillan’s Cancer Support.

Get in on the caffeination and cause by offering your best coffee-based cocktails all day long.

September 25 – National Daughters Day

Daughters Day was created by Limited, a popular greeting card brand in India, to raise awareness of the gender disparity and encourage parents to educate their daughters about it.

Since then, the day has grown to reach the entire globe so there are plenty of parents ready to bring their daughters out for a drink or lunch at the bar.

September 26 – Johnny Appleseed Day

Johnny Appleseed Day seems like a celebration for a kindergarten classroom. But anything that works for elementary kids, works for us!

Instead of making hats out of construction paper, offer your guest a more adult-like activity to honor Johnny Appleseed, like drinking a cider.

September 27 – Crush a Can Day

When your guests are done with their canned beer, grab it and CRUSH IT. It’s only today for Crush a Can Day that you get to act like Hulk.

September 28 – Ask a Stupid Question Day & National Drink Beer Day

Asking stupid questions and drinking beer are two things we bartenders are used to. Nothing really special going on today if you ask me.

September 29 – World Heart Day

Word on the Mayo Clinic street is that polyphenols, antioxidants in red wine, protect blood vessels in the heart.

So offer some specials on red wine for World Heart Day!

September 30 – National Hot Mulled Cider Day

Mulled cider in the winter months just hits different.

Slanging Cocktails All September Long

That’s it for now, friends. This is a list of bartender holidays. The fun, random nature of these holidays can really boost sales and check averages, all while helping you have fun.

Share this post and each of these fun days with the other bartenders in your business, so you can all make a little extra money, all month long.

A Bartender’s Calendar: October 2024

People love October, and we can understand why. 1 out of every 7 Americans said this is their favorite time of year! Between Halloween and Be Bald and Free Day, folks have every reason to celebrate with their friends and their favorite hang out—your bartop.

Local Bartending School, the country’s leading bartending school and top-pick for training and certification, has done all the hard work for you! Here’s an idea for every day in October, using national holidays and weird celebrations as inspiration, to bring all the treats, tips, and hopefully no tricks. Alas, your October calendar for bartenders and bar owners.

Keep Your Bar Busy All October Long

Halloween/Spooky SeasonSarcastic MonthNational Caramel MonthNational Apple Month

October 1 – Balloons Around the World Day

Balloons around the world? How about balloons all around your bar?

October 2 – Change A Light Day

You know there’s a light that’s been out for months that needs to be changed out. Change A Light Day is the perfect day to do exactly that.

October 3 – National Kevin Day, National Boyfriend Day, & Mean Girls Day

The third of October gives us ladies and loves the chance to swoon over three of our favorite things: Mean Girls, Kevin G., and our boyfriends.

Here are a few ways you can celebrate any one of these three holidays at your bar:

Play Mean Girls on TVRun specials on drinks boyfriends typically orderGive a free shot to any guest who can rap a bit of Kevin G’s solo

October 4 – National Vodka Day & National Fruit at Work Day

National Vodka Day makes it pretty easy to think of today’s drink special. Here’s a hint if you need it: anything with vodka.

But today’s a little extra sweet, it’s National Fruit at Work Day! To nine-to-fivers, this might seem like a zesty holiday but for us bartenders, it’s just another day at work.

October 5 – National Kiss a Wrestler Day

Give your patrons enough guts to kiss a wrestler with a shot of liquid courage.

October 6 – National Mad Hatter Day

On October 6th, we celebrate National Mad Hatter Day, a day to show off our silly side.

When sewing businesses used mercury nitrate in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, they were referred to as “mad as a hatter.”.Over time, the exposure to mercury nitrate caused the tradesmen to develop symptoms that made them look crazy.

Bartenders, you can get away with being a bit crazy! We’re entertaining and serving tipsy people; don’t be afraid to let your freak flag fly. Today and every day!

October 7 – You Matter To Me Day

Encourage your social media audience to bring in someone that matters to them for a drink at their favorite bar.

October 8 – National Motorcycle Ride Day

Bikers love only one thing more than their bike. The bar.

October 9 – International Beer and Pizza Day

Beer and pizza are the bar industry’s middle names.

Celebrate today by cooking up some pies and offering food and drink specials on beer and pizza.

Can’t serve food at your bar? Try collaborating with a local food truck to give your guests a bite to eat when the drunchies kick in.

October 10 – National Hug a Kevin Day

Sup with all these Kevin-themed holidays, huh?

If you can grab Kevin G for an appearance at your venue, that’s the best possible way to celebrate Hug a Kevin Day (RIP to hugs).

If not, it looks like it’s time to find all the Kevin’s in the city and tell them it’s their night to shine. It’s Kevin’s night, y’all!

October 11 – National Coming Out Day

National Coming Out Day has been celebrated annually on October 11 by the LGBTQ community. We’re celebrating queerness today!

The best thing you can do is be an ally for the community! Second best thing? Sell rainbow shots.

October 12 – Moment of Frustration Day

Even though it’s Moment of Frustration Day (and as bartenders, we have plenty), don’t be so quick to start venting to your guests. No one likes a negative Nancy, but especially when they’re trying to have a good time.

Instead, go outside and scream to let your frustration out! That’s exactly how the day is meant to be celebrated.

October 13 – International Skeptics Day

Non-believers and skeptics might not think today’s a real holiday. Bring them back to reality with drink specials so good, they won’t be doubting a thing.

October 14 – Be Bald and Be Free Day

Bald is beautiful!

For Be Bald and Be Free Day, offer those without hair a free drink. (See what we did there?)

October 15 – Sweetest Day & Global Handwashing Day

It’s called Sweetest Day but its origin has a much platonic, G-rated history than Valentine’s Day.

There was a day in the midwest (‘sup hometown) when people did random acts of kindness to neighbors, friends, and even the less fortunate.

Why not put on a charity event for your bar? We don’t have any specials today, but bartenders make it your goal to clear up any confusion that Sweetest Day isn’t a romantic holiday.

October 16 – National Liqueur Day

Liqueurs, cordials, whatever you call them—it’s National Liqueur Day. So grab your schnapps and blue curacao to celebrate all of the aromatic and variety of flavors that liqueurs bring to our cocktails.

October 17 – National Pay Back a Friend Day

Your guests probably have a few people they owe money to. How about they pay them back with a few rounds at the bar?

October 18 – No Beard Day

No beard? No problem. October 18 is all about getting rid of the hair on your chinny, chin, chin.

Show up to your shift sans-beard and your coworkers might think there’s a new guy behind the bar.

October 19 – National New Friends Day

Introduce your regulars to each other for a chance to meet a couple of new friends on National New Friends Day.

October 20 – Brandied Fruit Day & International Chefs Day

We’re all about brandied fruit today. Making brandied fruit is as easy as soaking dried fruit and sugar in your favorite brandy.

Despite their use as toppings for ice cream, cakes, and sweet pies, you can make your own brandied fruit and mix them with brandy, cognac, or whisky cocktails.

October 21 – National Apple Day

National Apple Day is the perfect day to offer apple-flavored liquors like Jim Beam Apple or vodka.

October 22 – National Nut Day

Nuts and beer may already be a thing at your bar, but if not, today’s the day to slide over a bowl of peanuts with their brewski.

You can also suggest nut liqueurs like Frangelico or amaretto.

October 23 – Slap Your Annoying Coworker Day

Finally, a day to slap the coworker that drives you up the wall.

If you do, or encourage your guest to, just know that job security is up for grabs and no one can be held responsible.

October 24 – National Food Day

Entice your guests to order a little extra something from the kitchen today, it’s National Food Day.

Don’t have a kitchen at your bar? Remind your customers to get their Uber Eats order so it arrives right when they get home.

October 25 – International Artist Day

Artists are notorious for keeping a stiff drink nearby to spark creativity.

And as providers of said alcohol, artists have us to thank for keeping their spirit alive.

October 26 – National Pumpkin Day

Have your team carve their best Jack-o’-lanterns and ask your customers to vote for their favorite on National Pumpkin Day.

October 27 – National American Beer Day

Only American beer will do today. All domestics are discounted.

October 28 – Frankenstein Friday

Cocktails based on Frankenstein? I’m game. People will run to your bar like monster zombies!

October 29 – National Internet Day

Bartending has been around way longer than the internet. Yet, our lives are so much easier behind the bar since its debut.

Today, every time you swipe a credit or debit card, you have the internet to be thankful for.

October 30 – National Candy Corn Day

Candy corn’s taste is up for debate. Take a poll at your bar to see how things lie with your regulars.

October 31 – Halloween

Halloween this year will be all about treats. Show the world your creepy cocktail concoctions!

You can run a variety of specials to satisfy everyone’s appetites, but don’t forget your costume!

Tip or Treat!

Do you need a little help getting to where you can create an original cocktail based on candy corn? Maybe you want to step up your game and wow your guests with bar tricks.

We can definitely help! One of our insanely talented instructors at Local Bartending School is ready to teach you everything you need to know, from basics to flair bartending.

A Bartender’s Calendar: November 2024

November is a month all about gratitude. Well, you want to know what makes a bartender like me really thankful? Money, tips, and auto-gratuity on large parties.

And making money can mean more than just being a good bartender or making the best fall cocktails for your guests. Sometimes it’s about telling a story or finding a reason to celebrate.

That’s why my team and I at Local Bartending School hunted all the happenings this month – from wacky holidays to Thanksgiving – so you can keep your bartop busy, happy, and eager to give you that 20% tip.

November 1 – Cinnamon Day

On Cinnamon Day, we can’t think of a better way to celebrate at the bar other than to highlight a crowd favorite, Fireball!

November 2 – All Souls’ Day

In Christian tradition, All Souls’ Day gives folks a day to remember their loved ones who have passed.

Invite everyone to come in and order their favorite drink in their friend’s memory.

November 3 – Stout Day

Stouts are my favorite thing to sip on in the middle of fall.

Make those dark beers a few bucks cheaper, and your bar will be crowded like it’s the 17th century and you’re the only pub in the village. Actually, stout beer was born in those days, and we haven’t stopped drinking them since!

Here’s a fun fact! Stout originally meant “proud”, but it eventually came to mean “strong”. And that’s exactly how a lot of people would describe this awesome brew.

November 4 – Use Your Common Sense Day

Common sense isn’t a flex everyone can pull off. But that coworker that’s missing the muscle, beg of them, for today’s sake, to use their common sense!

November 5 – Pumpkin Destruction Day

Ask your guests if they still have their pumpkins from Halloween. And if they do, they get destroyed! Not the human, the pumpkin.

Bonus Idea: Play Smashing Pumpkins all shift long.

November 6 – National Nachos Day

People love nachos no matter what, so say National Nachos Day and you’ll sell ’em like hotcakes.

What, no nachos? Don’t worry.

It’s still possible to celebrate this spicy day with Mexican cocktails or products at the bar.

November 7 – International Merlot Day

All other red wines can take a seat on the shelf today. Merlot is in the limelight for International Merlot Day.

November 8 – Dunce Day

This is the anniversary of the death of the Scottish philosopher, John Duns Scotus. Some of his views were brilliant, others were absurd. He is the true inspiration behind the dunce cap, despite him being a medieval scholar.

Have you worked or currently work with a dunce? Our comment section is a safe place to vent and moan. Go ‘head, we’re here for you.

November 9 – Chaos Never Dies

Please, no more chaos! Let. It. Die.

With a beverage in hand, embracing the fact that Chaos Never Dies is much easier. Any drink will do.

November 10 – USMC Day

Happy birthday to the U.S. Marine Corps, created long, long ago in the Revolutionary War.

Drinks for current and retired Marine Corps personnel only seem right. They kick major ass while simultaneously protecting their country. Let’s get them a drink!

November 11 – Veteran’s Day

Observed since 1919, this is a day dedicated to honoring those who have served in the U.S. military. What can we do to show our support? Opening your saloon doors with a warm welcome and plenty of free (or super cheap) cocktails.

November 12 – National Happy Hour Day

The significance of this day is almost beyond explanation. Our experience as bartenders is quite extensive when it comes to happy hour. Unless you live in a state that doesn’t do happy hour! Then you can sit today out.

For the rest of us, it’s National Happy Hour Day! If you legally can, let those daily deals last all day long so you can celebrate this momentous holiday.

November 13 – World Kindness Day

A global effort of the World Kindness Movement, World Kindness Day is recognized in Australia, Japan, and Canada.

You can look at your demanding customers, your coworkers, and your evil bosses and realize they’re human.

Practice small acts of kindness behind your bar today. Everyone can always use a bit of kindness.

November 14 – National Pickle Day

“I’ll have a pickleback, please!”

If you’re a baby bartender, you might be confused by bar lingo, like the word ‘pickleback’.

A pickleback is a shot of whisky, backed or chased with pickle brine.

Besides training you on all types of “backs,” you can also get certified as a bartender online through one of their courses!

If you’re already behind the bar, ask your guests if they want a pickleback to celebrate National Pickle Day.

November 15 – America Recycles Day

America recycles. Does your bar?

If not, definitely get on with a recycling program so we can all live on the planet a few years longer, huh?

November 16 – Have a Party With Your Bear Day

Who said stuffies and plushies are for kids? Oh, every toymaker ever? Well, they can fluff off, ‘cause it’s Have a Party With Your Bear Day and all bargoers are welcome to BYOB – bring your own bear.

November 17 – National Unfriend Day

Jimmy Kimmel brought National Unfriend Day into our reality. He said that November 17th was the day to unfriend everyone on social media you don’t really need to be friends with.

Think of today as a social media detox.

How should everyone sit down and say goodbye? In your bar with a soothing drink, of course. Goodbyes to digital friends are hard to say! But there’ll always be a friend for your regulars as long as you’re working.

November 18 – National Apple Cider Day

Whoever decided to make alcoholic ciders has the entire world of gluten-sensitive communities thanking them every day. But especially today.

Angry Orchards would be perfect to offer today and any day for our Celiac guests.

November 19 – International Men’s Day

Move over milkshakes, it’s really cocktails that bring all the boys to the bar.

And on International Men’s Day, all men (anyone who identifies as male!) have the chance to celebrate what makes them, them… all with a stiff drink in hand.

Bar owners, 86 Ladies Night! Tonight is Men’s Night.

November 20 – Absurdity Day

We know you owe your parents or caregiver some cheddar. How do we know? It’s a universal law. That’s why they made it into a holiday.

What’s a better way to pay back parents? Buy them a drink.

Post on your socials that they should bring their parents to your bar for a cocktail today!

November 21 – False Confession Day

Go ahead, admit it! You didn’t know today is National False Confession Day? People say confessing is good for us. There’s no rule that says it must be true.

Confess your biggest confession that’s totally a lie and see if your regulars catch on.

November 22 – Love Your Freckles Day

A freckled face is a wonderful thing, isn’t it? This Love Your Freckles Day, let’s celebrate them even more.

You can make a person’s day extra special by giving them a treat or by paying extra attention to them today if you have a customer with freckles at your bar. The day is theirs!

Have all the freckle-lovers come to your bar for a drink. There’s only one day like this every year, so they deserve a little celebration.

November 23 – Black Wednesday

DrinksGiving, also known as Black Wednesday in some parts of the country, is when friends get together at their local bar for the long holiday weekend.

If you’re a bartender, you probably know this day in advance every year. Be prepared! I’m sure it’ll be fun.

Offer some drink specials to welcome the crowd home! Earn extra points by creating a beverage named after your hometown.

Are you trying to get a whole team fit for DrinksGiving and the holiday season? We can help with that too! We can send one of our nationally recognized instructors to your venue to teach your crew the ropes before peak season. Click here to learn more.

November 24 – Thanksgiving

While you might not be serving turkey, you will be serving some drinks!

Turkey Day is today.

If you’re working today, have fun celebrating with your colleagues! I’m guessing you’ll be pouring a lot of champagne, wine, and cocktails. Don’t forget, to be extra nice to people today; some might be going through difficult family situations.

Make a few Thanksgiving-themed specialty cocktails to welcome the holiday season. To spice things up, add apples, cinnamon, and cranberries, which are all seasonal ingredients.

November 25 – Black Friday

Shopping in the morning can quickly turn into drinking at the bar in the afternoon.

Especially as a new bartender, you should be aware of days like these. Don’t leave your bar unstocked or unprepared for waves of people looking for a place to rest their feet and grab a bite to eat or a drink.

November 26 – Small Business Saturday

Sometimes Small Business Saturday is overlooked by buyers each year. But a few shoppers are making it a goal to only shop locally, which is exactly what Small Business Saturday encourages.

You might see a bit more business today if you’re working downtown filled with small mom-and-pop shops.

And if your bar is locally-owned, let everyone know so they can continue to support small businesses, even while drinking.

November 27 – Pins and Needles Day

I don’t know about you, but I always get that pins and needles feeling in my feet when I get off from a long shift. I don’t need Pins and Needles Day to remind me.

November 28 – Make Your Own Head Day

Make Your Own Head Day, a confusing holiday for the rest of the world. But we’re creating beautiful, foamy heads all day long, all year long.

What’s your trick for creating the perfect head every pour?

November 29 – Square Dance Day

Southern and midwestern folks love their line dancing and square dancing, that’s for sure.

Kick those tables and chairs to the side for Square Dance Day. You’ve got a dance floor to create.

Have you ever worked at a square dancing bar or venue? We need to know about it!

November 30 – National Personal Space Day

In honor of National Personal Space Day, you may elbow your fellow bartender when they get just a little too close.

Thirty Days of Tasty Thankfulness

With a reason to show your gratitude and festive spirit every day this month, you’ve got it made in Marketing Land.

You’ll be as busy as the stores on Black Friday (pre-pandemic, of course)!

And remember, if you need help with training, Local Bartending School’s instructors are ready to help. Contact us today!

A Bartender’s Calendar: December 2024

On the twelfth month of 2024, Local Bartending School gave to me, thirty-one ways to make money.

I know you asked Santa for a calendar made just for bartenders and bar owners, right? Maybe not, but with all of the holidays happening this month to bring people into your bar, you can buy what you really want with all the extra money you’ll be making.

Don’t miss out on making these top winter cocktails, either. They’ll add that extra bit of holiday magic adults have been missing since we all stopped believing in Santa.

December 1 – National Christmas Lights Day

Put your Christmas tote into action, whether it is in the office or in the back room; it’s National Christmas Lights Day!

Even if you run an upscale establishment, you can hang a few strings of lights from your bar. It is far safer than the old way of hanging Christmas lights, with real candles on real trees.

Lights can’t be hung at your bar? Put on clothing that resembles Christmas lights (such as a necklace, hat, or sweater) or create a cocktail that has bright colors, like a strand of lights.

December 2 – National Bartender Day

The day is finally here for bartenders! Our moment seemed impossible to come by, didn’t it? With over half a million bartenders in the U.S., we think that National Bartender Day is pretty big around here.

Taking place between Thanksgiving and Christmas, this holiday falls at an ideal peak time. The day was actually created by Sailor Jerry Rum for people like us. What for? To celebrate how great we are!

Additionally, we tend to be like mini-therapists, dealing with all kinds of emotions and attitudes. We also spend a lot of our time practicing dangerous flair bartending tricks, just to entertain our bartenders at the bar (and maybe look cool, too).

Your bartenders deserve a day of special treatment today, bar owners. So how can you show your appreciation to them? Feed them. Alternatively, you could:

Post on social media about your team.Have a night out for some bonding and to blow off steam.Hold a contest for Most Appreciated Bartenders

Let your fellow bar buddies know how much you appreciate them! Stop by and have a few drinks. You can also read about some of the most popular bartenders and study what makes them great.

We hope that today brings a little extra cash to all of you. Have a great Bartender Appreciation Day!

December 3 – Crate Day

Clean out all of those empty dairy crates hanging around the bar.

December 4 – National Cookie Day

Forget leaving cookies out for Santa, give your guests a cookie cocktail!

December 5 – Day of the Ninja

Bartenders are just ninjas with bottles, really. Get your ninja on by showing off your flair skills all day long.

Not yet trained in the art of flair? Learn the craft of flair bartending from the mixology Mr. Miyagi’s at LBS.

December 6 – St. Nicholas Day

If you haven’t heard of this before, it’s a night where St. Nick is known to leave small gifts in the shoes of children.

But since your guests are required to keep their shoes on, we’ll just move on.

December 7 – National Letter Writing Day

Time to write a handwritten two week’s notice! It’s National Letter Writing Day and we think that’s a sign to turn in that letter of recognition.

December 8 – National Brownie Day

Rich cocktail inspiration can be found in brownies. We’re always craving this recipe from Tasty.

December 9 – Christmas Card Day

What do you think the origins of this tradition are? They go back a long way! Christmas cards were first sent in 1611. Hallmark, which took hold of the U.S. card industry in 1910, has been sending cards since then, but the 4×6 card we are so familiar with has been around for nearly 100 years.

It feels like a Fireball when you get a card.

You can celebrate Christmas Card Day at your bar with these fun ideas:

● Let your guests know to send out holiday cards.

● Sign and display a card for your guests.

● Make sure your staff has a card!

December 10 – Human Rights Day

Annually, the world celebrates the human right to “life, liberty, property, and the pursuit of happiness.”

But isn’t it a human right to have access to a good cocktail? We think so. Celebrate with your crowd and remind them of their right to drink.

December 11 – International Mountain Day

Bars and International Mountain Day have what in common? Coors Light. Your guests will enjoy a Coors Light today. Discounts never hurt, right?

December 12 – Green Monday

Having been introduced by eBay in 2007, this young retail holiday has become the biggest online shopping day in December. Online shopping is said to pair well with a bottle of wine.

December 13 – National Salesperson Day

Today is all about upselling to top-shelf liquor and embracing your inner salesperson. Bartending and serving is all about sales. The higher your check average, the more money in your pocket.

December 14 – Monkey Day

You might think monkeys relate to bars, but there are a handful of liquors and beers with a primate as the brand face.

December 15 – National Wear Your Pearls Day

Our minds are in the gutter most of the time. Why are food and beverage industry people so weird?

If you mention it’s National Wear Your Pearls Day around my group of bar friends, you won’t hear the end of the sexual jokes.

Don’t get the sexual joke? You’re too innocent for the bar world.

December 16 – National Ugly Sweater Day

National Ugly Sweater Day should have been an official holiday a long time ago as far as we’re concerned. Big, festive sweaters adorned with deformed Rudolph’s and Santa-hat-wearing-kittens? We’re in.

It’s an easy day today. Take that ugly sweater you’ve had since freshman year of university with you to work tonight. Everyone loves a festive spirit. You might even see your tips go up.

December 17 – National Maple Syrup Day

On this day every year, we celebrate maple syrup!

Buddy the Elf (more on him later – yes, he has a day too) thinks syrup goes well on a bunch of things, and we concur. Simple syrup, that is.

December 18 – Answer The Telephone Like Buddy The Elf Day

Answer any and all phone calls to the bar like Buddy The Elf, today.

December 19 – National Emo Day

Cut my lime into pieces, it’s National Emo Day.

Wear your eyeliner heavy (men, put some on) and serve a little extra side bang to embrace the emo side of yourself you haven’t let out since the early 2000s.

December 20 – National Sangria Day

There is no room for you today, Virginia. Our favorite fruity drink from Spain and Mexico, sangria, was banned by you.

It’s not traditionally served at bars, but why not? Sangria’s easy to make, cheap and you don’t have to throw out all that extra fruit.

December 21 – Winter Solstice

The winter solstice is here. The year’s shortest day. The long, dark hours allow us plenty of time to sit alone in a bar and feel the winter blues.

If you do nothing more than serve cocktails to bring light to one of the darkest days of the year, let everyone know they’ll get a little longer after today. It’ll give them something to look forward to!

Want to go to bartending school before spring? With Local Bartending School, you can take both online and in-person classes to learn the ins and outs of bartending before the groundhog ever sees his shadow.

December 22 – National Cookie Exchange Day

We do not mind sharing thousands of cookies on the 22nd of December. As it turns out, it’s an old tradition with roots that go back centuries.

If you are in your bar today, you can celebrate by:

● Put your employees to the test by having a cookie decorating contest

● Make sure your guests bring in cookies to share

● Theme your cocktail around cookies

December 23 – National Roots Day

Do you remember where your roots lie? These celebrities who used to bartend do.

December 24 – Christmas Eve

You may see some people by themselves if you work at a bar that doesn’t close on Christmas Eve. However, Santa probably doesn’t come to pubs.

December 25 – Christmas

Today could be a day off! Have a wonderful holiday! Some bars, however, choose to stay open and throw parties that would even make the Grinch smile

Open today? Be sure to stock up on seasonal favorites like:

Delicious holiday farePopular winter cocktailsChristmas classicsFestive deco

December 26 – Kwanzaa

Today is the start of Kwanzaa, an African American and pan-African seven-day cultural holiday that celebrates family and community.

And nothing celebrates togetherness quite like a week full of Kwanzaa-themed drink specials.

December 27 – International Day of Epidemic Preparedness

Whoops, seems like the world is a little late on this one…

For today, ensure you’re following health codes and sharing the health of information so we can all keep things as clean and epidemically prepared as possible.

December 28 – National Call a Friend Day

It’s no secret that this time of year can be a bit stressful and chaotic for a lot of people. It’s essential to keep up with your buddies. On National Call a Friend Day, we do just that.

Invite guests to call their friends today! When they have them on the phone, they should invite them out for a drink. A bartop would be a great place to catch up.

December 29 – Still Need To Do Day

There are still some things left to do before the year ends, so Still Need To Do Day is a good reminder. Essentially, it is saying, “Remember all those goals you set? The clock is ticking!”

For a conversation starter today, you could mention to your guests that today is Still Need to Do Day to get them motivated. If they realize they’re not going to crush their goals before New Year’s, offer them some liquid comfort.

December 30 – National Bacon Day

Bacon in bloody mary’s, yes or no?

December 31 – New Year’s Eve & National Champagne Day

Five out of ten American adults drink on New Year’s Eve. One in five go to bars. Are bartenders affected? It’s gonna be rough.

Don’t let the New Year bring messy situations. Even on National Champagne Day, remember your primary goal is to serve alcohol safely!

Keep these things in mind:

Check IDs carefullyCutting someone off is okayIf a drunk driver leaves your bar, you can be held responsible

Bar owners, you need your staff in top condition this time of year. You don’t want to lose out on potential revenue because your staff can’t keep up! Worse yet, you could get fined for serving excise. Fully train and certify your staff so that doesn’t happen. We’re here to help!

There’s No Place Like the Bar for the Holidays

They say December is the best time of the year. Also, it’s the best time of year for drinking. Not to mention you have about 31 days to celebrate!

What do you want for Christmas? Your two front teeth and the chance to be a bartender? Thanks to Santa, we know you’ve been nice all year. You can get the gift of bartending at Local Bartending School today!

Already Santa’s main elf behind the bar? Become a bartending teacher and head elf with the help of a nationally recognized school with LBS.

We’re seeing new employment (and maybe even an event side job) under the tree for you this year.

The post Full Bartender Calendar: 2024 first appeared on LBS Bartending School.

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How Much Do Bartenders Make Around the World?

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How to Annoy a Bartender in Less than a Minute

Your local watering hole—the bar.

It’s a place to relax and unwind with friends, a place to have a good time, and maybe even meet up with new people along the way.

But if you’re not careful, it can also be a place where you end up pissing someone off. And that person could be your bartender—and trust me, they don’t like it. Neither will you! Your local watering hole could turn into a festering ground for annoyance and really bad cocktails.

To help you stay out of the doghouse (or at least make sure your drink arrives properly made), here are some phrases that annoy bartenders everywhere.

Don’t Be a Duke

Duke was a regular at the local bar, an old dive tucked away in a quiet corner of town. He’d been coming here for years and knew all the bartenders by name. Today he had stopped by to grab a quick beer before heading home.

As Duke ordered his drink, he made sure to say the same phrase every time: “Make it snappy!” The bartender always rolled their eyes when they heard him, but today something was different. Instead of just rolling their eyes, the bartender slammed down Duke’s beer and said “Is that really necessary?”

Duke was taken aback – no one had ever spoken to him like that before! He began to apologize profusely for offending them, but the bartender cut him off with an icy glare and said “I don’t want to hear any more ‘make it snappy’ phrases from you again.”

Realizing he’d messed up big time, Duke quickly paid for his beer and left without another word. From then on out, whenever Duke stopped by the bar he made sure not to use that phrase ever again!

7 Phrases to Piss Your Bartender Off

“What’s On Special?”

Listen, bartending is an art form, not a menu. If there are specials written up on the board or on the menu, great! But asking what’s on special every time you come in is just going to get old fast.

Trust us, if we have something special that night, we’ll let you know about it!

“Can I Have a…(long list of ingredients)?”

This one might sound familiar—it’s the infamous “bartender’s choice.” Sure, we can try our best to craft something delicious for you based on those ingredients…but chances are it won’t be quite what you were expecting! Save yourself some disappointment and stick to ordering classic cocktails off the menu instead.

“I’ll Have What He/She Is Having”

We get it—sometimes someone orders something that looks so good that you just have to have it too! That said, please don’t simply point at someone else’s drink and tell us “I’ll have what he/she is having.” Not only does this put unnecessary pressure on us to remember what their order was (especially if they ordered several drinks!), but how do we know that particular cocktail is going to be good for YOU? After all, everyone has different tastes!

“I’m not sure, just surprise me.”

Again, this shows a lack of thought on your part and puts the bartender in an uncomfortable position. It’s always best to have at least some idea of what you want to drink before you approach the bar. That way, the bartender can make a recommendation based on your preferences instead of just guessing.

Bonus! Here’s a video that will give you and anyone who goes out to eat at a bar or restaurant a solid guide on how to not annoy a server, or you, the bartender.

“I don’t like (insert liquor here), so just make something with (insert different liquor here).”

This one is just annoying because it shows that you don’t know what you’re talking about. If you don’t like a certain liquor, chances are good that you won’t like anything made with it either. It’s always best to be specific about what you do and don’t like so that the bartender can make a more informed decision about what to make for you.

“Can I get a (insert drink here) with a twist?”

This one isn’t necessarily annoying, but it does show that you’re not familiar with the drink you’re ordering. A twist is simply a piece of citrus peel that is used as a garnish, so asking for one in your drink is unnecessary and will likely just confuse the bartender. If you want a twist in your drink, just ask for it without specifying what kind of drink you want it in.

“I’ll have a (insert drink here), but can you make it weak/strong?”

This is another one that isn’t necessarily annoying, but it shows that you’re not familiar with the drink you’re ordering. Asking for a drink to be made weak or strong simply means that you want more or less of the liquor in it, which is something that most bartenders will automatically do anyway. If you want your drink to be made specifically weak or strong, just ask for it without specifying what kind of drink you want it in

Speaking Not Required: Ways to Annoy a Bartender Without Words

Making a bartender’s night harder than it needs to be is pretty simple. So easy, you can actually do it without using words at all.

From reaching out across the bar and screaming your order to snapping your fingers for service, or even just simply not having your order ready, bartenders have enough to deal with already.

Overstaying your welcome at the bar is a practical foolproof way of making sure that the bartender wants you gone ASAP – especially if you decide to play loud music for yourself/your party.

And last but not least, there’s never anything more annoying than placing an order and then disappearing before collecting it – don’t be that person!

Here’s a list to break things down for everyone:

Making a bartender’s night harder than it needs to be is pretty simple. So easy, you can actually do it without using words at all.

From reaching out across the bar and screaming your order to snapping your fingers for service, or even just simply not having your order ready, bartenders have enough to deal with already.

Overstaying your welcome at the bar is a practical foolproof way of making sure that the bartender wants you gone ASAP – especially if you decide to play loud music for yourself/your party.

And last but not least, there’s never anything more annoying than placing an order and then disappearing before collecting it – don’t be that person!

Here’s a list to break things down for everyone:

Play with your straw. Those straws were meant for drinking, not your disgusting hand.

Constantly check your phone.

Occupy a barstool for an unpaying object or child. Unless the entire bar is empty, please don’t plan to use the barstool for anything except a human butt that is of age and can tip a bartender properly.
Send your drink back multiple times. Send it back once, that’s fine. But a few times? Just order something else–you don’t like the cocktail.
Get handsy with the bartender. Don’t touch anyone while they’re working. Plain and simple.
Throw money at the bartender instead of tipping properly. Unless your bartender or server consents to your throwing of money, this is just rude. Hint: You’re not a club!
Ignore the bartender. There’s a fine balance of being courteous and annoying. Interact with us, but don’t ignore us like we’re robots.
Snap your fingers or wave to get attention. Use your words! You’re an adult. You should know them by now, right?
Play loud music for yourself or your party. The music at a bar or restaurant is typically picked for a reason. And you’re not the paid D.J., are you?
Stay a long time, AKA “camping”. If you plan to stay a while, just tip accordingly for the time spent at the table.
Not being ready with an order.

Interrupt with a bartender is talking with someone else.

Smell bad. Don’t ruin the bartender’s working environment by stinking up their bar! You honestly will turn people away from the bar with your stinky self!
Make a weird amount of eye contact. If you need something, yes—you’re allowed to look at me a little longer. But don’t stare at me over the rip of your glass while I’m washing dishes. That’s just weird.
Use passive communication methods. Just tell me what you want. What you really, really want.

Expecting bartenders to be magical fairies who can read your mind and make instant cocktails.

Snack out of our fruit tray. That’s gross. Keep your dirty paws out!
Rip up your napkin or coaster. I get it, you’re nervous about the date. Unless you plan to clean your confetti, please tear the paper up like a puppy at your own house!

Be Less Annoyed with the Help of Local Bartending School

At the end of the day, we want all of our customers to feel welcome in our bar and enjoy their experience.

Plus, nobody likes going to bars and clubs only to encounter grumpy bartenders.

Luckily, there is a way for you to prevent that from happening.

Knowing which phrases and behaviors actively annoy bartenders can help you keep yourself out of trouble the next time you hit up your favorite watering hole.

And if you want to learn more about the ins and outs of being a bartender, consider taking classes at Local Bartending School—not only will it help other customers enjoy their experience even more, but it could also help you make some extra money on the side!

So don’t let fear keep you away; break down any barriers between yourself and a pleasant bar experience by not annoying your bartender.

We want to hear from you! What’s the most annoying thing to happen to you while bartending? Post in the comments below or find us on Instagram to send us a direct message.

The post How to Annoy a Bartender in Less than a Minute first appeared on LBS Bartending School.

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How to Deal With Bad Tippers

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How to Hire a Bartender For Your Event, Wedding, or Party

Party people, gather around! We’ve got an event to plan for.

You’ve just set the date for your wedding (congrats!). Or maybe your client’s daughter is turning 16 and you’re in charge of the quinceanera. Perhaps you have a holiday party coming up for your next corporate event.

Maybe you’re a new or experienced bartender, looking to be hired for a bartending service for these exclusive, private parties. (If that’s you, keep reading ’til the end!)

When it comes to hiring a bartender for your special event, there are some things you need to know and be aware of. Not all bartending companies or bartenders are created equal! Some will try to overcharge you, send over staff that looks like they just ran a triathlon, or just straight-up ghost you.

The bar services at your party, corporate event, or wedding don’t have to be a nightmare!

Here’s a guide so you can hire the best bartenders and get the most bang for your buck out of bar packages.

We’ve included red flags to watch out for, all the right questions to ask, and some insider tips that you can only get from industry professionals like us, the team at Local Bartending School where you can find all your bartending needs in one place and across the United States.

For my bartenders, you’ll want to keep reading to get a fresh perspective on event bar services. Then at the end, we’ll dive into how Local Bartending School can help you advance your bartending career and make more money.

Communicating with a Bartending Company

Sometimes, the discovery phase of finding the right person for the job can involve both email communication and over-the-phone. And almost all of the time, it involves a quick search on the internet.

So how can you tell which company has the best wedding bartenders and prices? You don’t!

You see, service isn’t tangible. It’s hard to know what you’re going to get by looking at images and logos. That’s why it’s important during your communication with them (either email or phone), to ask all the right questions.

What to Do If Your Quote for Hiring a Bartender Was Emailed to You?

You’ve filled out a form or sent an email, and the company replied back with a quote based on the info you provided. This is nice, but not quite good enough.

Time and time again, in our experience, this email communication simply isn’t enough to get all the details extracted.

We recommend that you pick up the phone and call the staffing or bartending company. If they refuse to schedule a call with you, perhaps it’s best to keep on looking at the other choices you have.

Calling a Bartending Company: What to Say?

Now that we’ve got you speaking to an actual person, you can share all those amazing details for the party you’ve worked so hard to forget. They can hear about the theme and decor style, the timing of the event, and much more.

Not to mention, this can save you and your budget some serious cheddar.

For instance, the bartending team shows up bright and early for your corporate event, let’s say around 3:00 pm. But you don’t actually need them there pouring drinks until around 7:00 pm when the speaker is done with their lecture.

Do you want to pay for four hours of bartenders doing nothing? Probably not!

Also, we should note that it’s typical that there is 1 bartender for every 50 guests (or 40, if you’ve gone the route of full-service or flair bartender).

All of these details can be ironed out over one easy phone call. And of course, you get a feel for their level of service by talking to a real human.

Here are some other things to consider and ask when you’re hiring bartenders:

How long do bartenders need to set up and break down?Do they provide barbacks?Are there surcharges for weddings?When is the last call?Who provides the glassware?What uniforms (if any) does the staff wear?

Lastly, don’t get taken advantage of by a bartending company during your next event or next party. If they require a deposit before you talk to them or refuse to get on the phone, these are some red flags and you should be shopping for other options.

But finding an event service that’s trustworthy seems like an impossible task. It isn’t! Local Bartending School has been trusted in the industry for years. Plus, they’re the only place that will hand-select a bartender for you nationwide.

How to Hire the Right Bartender for Your Party?

Like we mentioned, when you’re finding the right bartender for your next event, it can be a bit challenging because you can’t see their service in action. But there are a few things you can check out to see how they operate and what kind of service you might get.

Read online reviews. Hearing what others have to say can be a glimpse into your future. If the bartender or company has raving reviews, odds are you’ll get raving service. If the reviews are negative, get deleted, or respond back hastily to comments you probably don’t want to go with them.Talk to someone on the phone. We went over this, but talking to someone on the phone will usually tell you how they talk to all their customers. This is such a crucial step!Don’t be scared to ask questions. Emailing quick details might seem like the easiest and quickest option, but spending time to ask the right questions will help you make your party a success.

How much does it cost to hire a bartender for a party?

As with many things, this can depend on a few things like the quality of alcohol you’re serving, how many bartenders you need, etc. Typically, it will cost you around $30 to $150 USD per hour for professional bartenders.

For those of you planning a seasonal soiree, if your event is on a holiday, like Christmas or Labor Day, you will often have to pay a bit extra.

Hidden Fees When Hiring a Bartender

Hidden fees. We know them, we hate them. Whether you’re in Los Angeles or New York, you’ll run into them when you’re hiring a bartender for an event, wedding, or birthday party.

Some of the most common hidden charges you’ll come across are wedding surcharges, manager fees, and barback costs.

Unfortunately, some companies will charge you more per bartender for a wedding than they would a traditional party or corporate event. We find this to be bad service, honestly. The price should be the same for any party. Companies that do this usually just see the opportunity to upcharge and get away with it.

This same company might also tell you you’ll be charged for the manager or barback. If there’s a need for additional personnel, the company should factor this into their original cost instead of charging you.

Barbacks (the people who keep glassware clean and stocked, etc.) can be essential! So work this out with your bartending service and caterer.

How to Calculate How Much Alcohol You Need for Your Event

A good, general rule of thumb is this little equation–two drinks for each person for the first hour and then one drink each after that! Local Bartending School has its own tried and true calculator to determine exactly how much you’ll need, without all the guesswork.

Also, pay attention to the guest’s age, time of year, and where the event is located. All that can change what’s being consumed. Are your guests young and in their 20s? Amp up the vodka, tequila, and beer.

What Else Do I Need When Hiring a Bartender for My Wedding?

A bartop of course! There aren’t bar fairies that come around and *poof* there’s a bar. (That’d be cool, though!).

Now that you’ve got your bartender hired and the details worked out, ask your bartender or service provider if they have a mobile bar. Of course, if you’re venue has a bar, this might not be needed unless you want a remote bar with coolers outside or in another room.

A mobile bar gives bartenders and mixologists a place to keep their mixers chilled, ice frozen, and glassware stored. Without this, your event can be unorganized and messy.

If the company doesn’t already have a mobile bar, there could be some rental fees or delivery costs charged to you.

Wedding Bartender Success Stories

We pulled some success stories from other people who have hired a bartender for their event.

The team was everything we could’ve asked for and more. They were very professional and responsive to us when we first made contact with them, and on short notice they were able to work our event. The service and quality was exceptional. Everything we wanted in a bar service they provided, and they were great at interacting with our guests and becoming part of our party. They set up well before time and were ready to go when people arrived and continued to give great service throughout the party. And their clean up was quick and easy. An amazing service and an amazing team for a very good value. We will certainly use them again and highly recommend them! – Chase A.We had a great experience with them! Travis was super responsive by phone and email through the whole planning process, and our bartenders went above and beyond to take care of us on the wedding day. We brought our own glasses that we wanted to use, and the bartenders packed up everything in a way that made cleaning up after the event super easy. Highly recommend! – Megan P.[They] made our party such a HIT! They served premium liquors, cocktails & the service was AMAZING! They set up everything you need with no hassle! Will definitely book again in the future. – Karina Martinez

Party Planning and Hiring a Bartender: Your Guide for 2021 From Local Bartending School

Party planners and those hosting your own party, now you have all the right questions to ask, suggestions for communication, red flags, and hidden fees to watch out for. This guide brought to you by our team of mixologists, instructors, and bartender veterans at Local Bartending School should make your time a bit easier to navigate.

Making things even easier, you can hire LBS for your next event. Leave it to our professional staff who have been in this industry for decades to hand-select the best bartender for your party. Our name is trusted throughout the entire country!

No matter where you are in the United States, Local Bartending School can make your event a success.

New Bartenders and Experienced Bartenders, Want to Start Serving at Weddings and Events?

Private events and event bartenders are well-sought after in the industry.

If you’re a new bartender, Local Bartending School is the best place to learn how to bartend at events like weddings and holiday parties. LBS can get you certified anywhere in the United States. And with our job placement program, you’ll have a full-time career behind the bar.

Have some experience under your belt? Do you like to train others and share your craft? You can apply to teach bartending students at LBS! Between this, and the possibility of getting picked for huge events, you can make more money than normal side jobs.

The post How to Hire a Bartender For Your Event, Wedding, or Party first appeared on LBS Bartending School.

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How to Look Smart When Ordering a Cocktail

Your local watering hole—the bar.

It’s a place to relax and unwind with friends, a place to have a good time, and maybe even meet up with new people along the way.

To help you stay out of the doghouse (or at least make sure your drink arrives properly made), here are some phrases that annoy bartenders everywhere.

Ways To Sound Smart

Order the exact liquor. “Johnny Walker, Blue Label on the Rocks”Order the exact number of ice cubes: “”Johnny Walker, Blue Label on the Rocks, with One Ice Cube”Order top-end liquors. “Johnny Walker, Blue Label.” Everyone knows it’s amazing, and you’ll sound like you know what you’re talking about.

7 Phrases That Make You Seem Uneducated

“What’s On Special?”

Trust us, if we have something special that night, we’ll let you know about it!

“Can I Have a…(long list of ingredients)?”

“I’ll Have What He/She Is Having”

“I’m not sure, just surprise me.”

Bonus! Here’s a video that will give you and anyone who goes out to eat at a bar or restaurant a solid guide on how to not annoy a server, or you, the bartender.

“I don’t like (insert liquor here), so just make something with (insert different liquor here).”

“Can I get a (insert drink here) with a twist?”

“I’ll have a (insert drink here), but can you make it weak/strong?”

This is another one that isn’t necessarily annoying, but it shows that you’re not familiar with the drink you’re ordering. Asking for a drink to be made weak or strong simply means that you want more or less of the liquor in it, which is something that most bartenders will automatically do anyway. If you want your drink to be made specifically weak or strong, just ask for it and specify the amount of the alcohol (just one shot of the vodka, not two).

Speaking Not Required: Ways to Sound Dumb Without Words

Making a bartender’s night harder than it needs to be is pretty simple. So easy, you can actually do it without using words at all.

From reaching out across the bar and screaming your order to snapping your fingers for service, or even just simply not having your order ready, bartenders have enough to deal with already.

Overstaying your welcome at the bar is a practical foolproof way of making sure that the bartender wants you gone ASAP – especially if you decide to play loud music for yourself/your party.

And last but not least, there’s never anything more annoying than placing an order and then disappearing before collecting it – don’t be that person!

Here’s a list to break things down for everyone:

Making a bartender’s night harder than it needs to be is pretty simple. So easy, you can actually do it without using words at all.

From reaching out across the bar and screaming your order to snapping your fingers for service, or even just simply not having your order ready, bartenders have enough to deal with already.

Overstaying your welcome at the bar is a practical foolproof way of making sure that the bartender wants you gone ASAP – especially if you decide to play loud music for yourself/your party.

And last but not least, there’s never anything more annoying than placing an order and then disappearing before collecting it – don’t be that person!

Here’s a list to break things down for everyone:

How To Sound Like a Connoisseur

“I’ll Have a Double-shot of Johnny Walker, Blue Label, Neat”

Neat means without ice.

“I’ll Have a Tom Collins.”

Many order Gin & Tonics. Instead, try more rare drinks like a Tom Collins.

“I’ll Have a French 75.”

This is one for the ladies. If you’re looking for a strong drink, skip the Long Island. Go for something more feminine, a combination of brandy/gin/vodka then topped with bubbles. Order and it will make you sound like an expert.

Actions That Make You Look Not Smart in the Bar

Play with your straw. Those straws were meant for drinking, not your disgusting hand.

Constantly check your phone.

Occupy a barstool for an unpaying object or child. Unless the entire bar is empty, please don’t plan to use the barstool for anything except a human butt that is of age and can tip a bartender properly.
Send your drink back multiple times. Send it back once, that’s fine. But a few times? Just order something else–you don’t like the cocktail.
Throw money at the bartender instead of tipping properly. Unless your bartender or server consents to your throwing of money, this is just rude. Hint: You’re not a club!
Ignore the bartender. There’s a fine balance of being courteous and annoying. Interact with us, but don’t ignore us like we’re robots.
Snap your fingers or wave to get attention. Use your words! You’re an adult. You should know them by now, right?
Play loud music for yourself or your party. The music at a bar or restaurant is typically picked for a reason. And you’re not the paid D.J., are you?
Stay a long time, AKA “camping”. If you plan to stay a while, just tip accordingly for the time spent at the table.
Not being ready with an order.

Interrupt with a bartender is talking with someone else.
Make a weird amount of eye contact. If you need something, yes—you’re allowed to look at me a little longer. But don’t stare at me over the rip of your glass while I’m washing dishes. That’s just weird.
Use passive communication methods. Just tell me what you want. What you really, really want.Snack out of our fruit tray. That’s gross. Keep your dirty paws out!
Rip up your napkin or coaster. I get it, you’re nervous about the date. Unless you plan to clean your confetti, please tear the paper up like a puppy at your own house!

Be Smarter with the Help of Local Bartending School

At the end of the day, we want all of our customers to feel welcome in our bar and enjoy their experience.

Plus, nobody likes going to bars and clubs only to encounter grumpy bartenders.

Luckily, there is a way for you to prevent that from happening.

Knowing which phrases and behaviors actively annoy bartenders can help you keep yourself out of trouble the next time you hit up your favorite watering hole.

So don’t let fear keep you away; break down any barriers between yourself and a pleasant bar experience by not annoying your bartender.

We want to hear from you! What’s the most annoying thing to happen to you while bartending? Post in the comments below or find us on Instagram to send us a direct message.

The post How to Look Smart When Ordering a Cocktail first appeared on LBS Bartending School.

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An angry bar owner after making a common mistake.

How to Run a Bar – Avoid These Common Mistakes

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How to Start Bartending in Texas

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Know Your Whiskey

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Memorizing Cocktail Recipes – Bartenders Tricks & Tips

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Splitting Tips: You Can’t Avoid It, So Here’s How to Do It

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The Great Debate: Bartenders Versus Mixologists

As the bar industry continues to evolve, more and more customers are asking for a mixologist instead of a bartender.

But what’s the difference? Do we really need to make this distinction? The answer is yes!

After all, they both serve drinks, right? Wrong!

In this article brought to you by the experts at Local Bartending School, we will explore the difference between the two and why it matters for your bartending career, venue, or bar!

First, Meet the Mixology Masters

If there’s one thing that stands out among the most famous bartenders and mixologists in the USA, it’s their sheer love for mixology. Lynnette Marrero, for instance, has been recognized as one of the top female mixologists of our time, thanks to her passion for creating innovative and exciting cocktail recipes. From her early days bartending in NYC to her work with the Llama Inn, Lynnette has done it all – and she’s made a name for herself in the process. Whether it’s crafting new drinks or inspiring others to follow in her footsteps, there’s no denying that Lynnette is a true asset to the mixology world.

Another famous name in the world of mixology is Dale DeGroff, who is widely credited with bringing back the art of the cocktail in the 1990s. With his innovative approach to mixing ingredients and his love of history, Dale has made a lasting impact in the industry. His work has been recognized with numerous accolades, including induction into the Tales of the Cocktail Hall of Fame. Today, Dale continues to inspire new generations of mixologists with his impeccable attention to detail and dedication to the craft.

David Wondrich is another name that stands out in the mixology world, thanks in large part to his extensive knowledge of cocktail history. As a historian and writer, David has been instrumental in uncovering the stories behind some of the world’s most iconic cocktails. His work has been widely read and acclaimed, and his impact on the industry cannot be overstated. From old classics to modern innovations, David’s passion for cocktails shines through in everything he does.

Finally, Derek Brown is a mixologist who has made a name for himself with his unique approach to mixology education. Through his work as the owner of various DC-based bars, including Columbia Room and Mockingbird Hill, Derek has inspired countless bartenders to think differently about the art of crafting cocktails. He’s also a writer and educator, sharing his knowledge with aspiring mixologists around the world. With his contagious enthusiasm for the craft, there’s no one else quite like Derek Brown – and the mixology world is all the richer for it.

A Mixologist-Made Cocktail That’s Still Famous To This Day

Harry MacElhone may have been a Scottish-born bartender, but he made his mark on the cocktail world from his perch at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris.

And the French 75 just might be his most enduring creation.

Made with gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup, and topped with bubbles from Champagne, this cocktail is the perfect mix of citrusy and effervescent. Legend has it that the name comes from the powerful kick of the French 75mm field gun from World War I. That’s a great talking point and a fun fact to serve up when you’re serving your guest!

Bartenders and Mixologists: Where Do They Work?

The difference between where bartenders work versus where mixologists work is as stark as black and white, or should we say gin and tonic.

Bartenders are typically employed by bars, taverns, pubs, and restaurants as they are responsible for serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to customers. They are the unsung heroes, crafting the classics like Margarita, Mojito, and Old Fashioned with precision and speed.

On the other hand, mixologists are the mad scientists of the spirits world, creating innovative and unconventional cocktails that often feature a particular spirit.

Their skills and expertise are sought after by spirits companies, high-end bars, and establishments that focus on craft cocktails.

Mixologists experiment with a wide variety of ingredients, from fresh herbs to exotic fruits, and are known to push the boundaries of traditional cocktail-making.

What’s the Difference Between Bartenders and Mixologists?

Mixologists serve drinks, but bartenders serve customers. Yes, you heard it right! While mixologists are busy creating unique and extravagant drinks, bartenders are busy making sure that their customers are having a great time. Bartenders are masters of multitasking. They not only serve drinks but also talk to customers, make sure everyone is comfortable, and handle difficult situations. A great bartender can diffuse tension, resolve conflicts and create a welcoming environment!

Mixologists can be employed by spirits companies to create special concoctions featuring their spirits, but bartenders are only employed by bars. Mixologists are hired to create new drinks, experiment with different ingredients, and promote certain brands. They have an advanced knowledge of spirits, ingredients, and techniques. However, their expertise is limited to the bar where they work at. Meanwhile, bartenders have a wider range of skills that can be applied in different environments. They can work in restaurants, clubs, and even private events.

According to popular opinion, all mixologists are bartenders, but not all bartenders are mixologists. This is a common misconception that needs to be corrected. Every bartender can make a basic cocktail, but not every bartender has the skills and knowledge of a mixologist. Mixologists are like chefs, while bartenders are like cooks. Sure, both can prepare dishes, but one has a more advanced skill set than the other.

With that being said, it’s essential to understand that both mixologists and bartenders have their place in the bar industry.

Without bartenders, a bar wouldn’t have the same atmosphere and could never function at full capacity. Without mixologists, the bar wouldn’t have the same diverse and creative selection of drinks that separates it from others. So let’s not choose a side, but instead, embrace them both!

Do Bartenders and Mixologists Use Different Tools and Equipment?

When it comes to bar tools, bartenders and mixologists may cross paths, but their sets of gear are as different as night and day.

While mixologists may play with fire and ice, bartenders have their own arsenal of specialized tools that keep the party going.

Picture this: a bartender behind the cocktail bar, juggling liquor bottles with flashy tricks and pouring them to perfection with jiggers. These are just some of the tools that bartenders use those mixologists wouldn’t touch on a day-to-day basis. On top of these workaday essentials, bartenders also wield keg tappers, bottle openers, jiggers, muddlers, and shot pourers, and they know how to keep their glassware spotless with speed racks and strainers.

Whether it’s shaking up a round of margaritas for a bunch of boozy brunchers or pouring a chilled IPA for a sports bar crowd, bartenders need their tools sharp and their mixing game on point.

Now that we all know a bartender’s arsenal includes the usual suspects like liquor bottles, jiggers, and kegs. But what about our mixologist friends?

Oh, they’ve got some serious game when it comes to tools. Let’s start with the thermometer – a necessary tool for mixologists who take their cocktails seriously. They’re constantly checking the temperature of their drinks to ensure that the textures and flavors are just right. And you know what else they’ve got? Torches! Yes, these fire-starters are essential for mixologists when they’re looking to add a charred or smoky flavor to their drinks.

They’re no strangers to using a gas stove or oven either – it’s all about the right temperature and a little bit of heat to take their drinks to the next level. So next time you see a mixologist handling these tools, know that they’re not just making a drink, they’re crafting a work of art.

Do Bartenders and Mixologists Make the Same Drinks?

When it comes to cocktails, there’s a big difference between what a mixologist and a bartender would whip up.

Sure, both booze-slingers are experts at making tasty drinks, but mixologists take things to the next level. They’re like mad scientists, infusing their creations with all sorts of unusual ingredients and unexpected flavors.

Bartenders, on the other hand, tend to stick with the classics, pouring up tried-and-true recipes like Negronis and Manhattans. Don’t get me wrong, those drinks are great, but a mixologist will hit you with something you’ve never tasted before.

From molecular gastronomy to farm-to-table ingredients, these guys are on the cutting edge of cocktail culture.

So if you want to be wowed by a drink, seek out a mixologist. If you just want a beer or a simple Gin and Tonic, head to any old bar.

Choose Your Character: Bartender or Mixologist

To wrap things up, the difference between bartenders and mixologists must no longer remain a mystery or a great debate.

As you’ve learned, a mixologist specializes in crafting unique drinks and has advanced knowledge of spirits and ingredients, while a bartender caters to the needs of their customers, handles difficult situations, and ensures everyone has a great time.

Listen up, aspiring bartenders and bar owners!

If you’re looking to take your career to the next level, then you’ve come to the right place. Here at Local Bartending School, we’ve got the tools and training you need to become a top-notch mixologist or to train your staff to be the best in the biz.

As a new bartender, you might be wondering where to even begin. Well, let us tell you – it all starts with the basics. Our expert instructors will teach you everything from how to properly shake a cocktail to how to craft the perfect signature drink. We’ll also cover important topics like customer service, bar safety, and bartending etiquette. With our hands-on training and industry knowledge, you’ll be one step ahead of the competition.

But maybe you’re not a new bartender – maybe you own a bar and want to bring your staff up to speed. At Local Bartending School, we’ve got you covered there, too. We offer customized training programs that can be tailored to fit the needs of your establishment. From high-end craft cocktails to basic mixed drinks, we’ve got the expertise to make sure your staff is serving up the best drinks in town.

So don’t wait – come join the Local Bartending School community and up-level your bartending game. With our expert instruction, top-notch training, and industry connections, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a master mixologist or a top-notch bar owner. Cheers to that!

The post The Great Debate: Bartenders Versus Mixologists first appeared on LBS Bartending School.

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The Importance of Training Your Bar Staff

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The Most Important Skills and Qualities You Need to be a Good Bartender

Part of learning how to be a good bartender is experiencing a few bad ones. Have you worked with someone like this or know a “bad” bartender?

I’m willing to bet that the person in question can be rude, stand-offish, lazy, or even perhaps…. unhygienic.

Yep, with a few short, not-at-all helpful answers paired with a dirty look, and that bartender can totally ruin someone’s night out.

And as a budding bartender yourself, you’ll need to know the skills and qualities it takes to be one of the best bartenders. Why? Because you are the face of the business, earn your own living wages, and are the most important link between your establishment and its guests.

Even my fellow industry veterans can benefit from reading this article! Unless you’re perfect, then carry on!

Today, you’ll uncover the most important skills it takes to be the best bartender. Ready? Let’s dive in!

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The Secret to Making More Money with Specials

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The Surprising Truth About National Bartending School – A Raw and Unfiltered Review You Can’t Miss!

Hey there, tired of feeling lost in the endless scroll of Google searches trying to find the perfect bartending school to skyrocket your career?

Hold onto your shakers because Local Bartending School (LBS) and I have your back, my friend.

Now, let’s shake things up and dive into the delicious, or maybe even dangerous, details of the National Bartending School.

As a seasoned veteran with over 15 years of experience in restaurant and bar management, I know the struggle of finding the right fit, but with LBS and our crew of experts, you’re in good hands.

So, let’s shake, shake, shake it up, and get into the sweet and savory details about why the National Bartending School may or not be worth your while.

National Bartending School: The Least You Need to Know

National Bartending Bartending Schools has been around for quite some time now and has established itself as a reputable institution for aspiring bartenders.

With its first school campus in Los Angeles, California, the school has grown in leaps and bounds since then and now offers top-quality, affordable bartending schools across Southern California & New York.

The school’s vision has always been to train the best bartenders in the area and they have certainly lived up to their reputation. The National Bartending School offers comprehensive programs that cover everything you need to know about bartending, from the basics of mixing drinks to the intricacies of creating the perfect cocktail.

Whether you are a complete novice or an experienced bartender looking to improve your skills, the National Bartending School has something to offer. Their curriculum includes lessons on bartending tools and equipment, pouring techniques, and drink recipe principles, as well as knowledge on liquor laws and regulations.

In addition to the training program, National Bartending School offers placement assistance and job placement programs to help graduates find jobs in the industry. This support does not stop after graduation since the school offers continued support to keep graduates abreast of the latest industry trends and news.

The National Bartending School’s commitment to quality is evident in their knowledgeable staff and dedicated instructors.

They provide students with hands-on training, extensive resources, and a supportive learning environment. Students can expect to receive guidance on how to develop interpersonal skills, customer service, and mastering the art of mixing unique and tasty cocktails.

How much does National Bartending School Cost?

Looking to become a bartender but not quite sure where to start? Well, you’re in luck because bartending schools are on the rise and can provide you with all the knowledge and skills you need to become a master mixologist. But how much does bartending school cost? Let’s find out.

Firstly, it’s important to note that bartending school prices vary depending on your location.

However, if affordability is a top priority for you, National Bartenders is an option. Not only is it one of the most affordable schools, but they also offer flexible payment options to make it easier on your wallet.

At National Bartenders, courses typically cost between $295-$595, depending on the location and course length.

These prices may seem steep, but keep in mind that attending a bartending school can be a valuable investment in your career.

You’ll learn everything from cocktail recipes to pouring techniques to customer service skills, which can give you a major advantage in the competitive bartending industry.

In addition to in-person courses, National Bartenders also offers online courses for those who prefer to learn from the comfort of their own homes. These online courses range from $49.95 for a basic course to $199.95 for a full master course.

Many bartenders learn on the job or through apprenticeships. However, attending a school can give you a head start and a solid foundation of knowledge, which can be important in today’s job market.

However, if you’re in San Francisco, don’t even worry about the cost. Not that it’s free, because it’s not, it’s just permanently closed! So if you were keen to skim this looking for a review of National Bartending School near San Franciso, you can go ahead and check LBS out.

The Good in White Plains, New York

It’s not often that fake fruit and fake liquor come together to create something both fun and educational, but that’s exactly what happened at National Bartending School in White Plains, NY.

As this trusty reviewer discovered, the classes offered there are excellent, and the teachers are actual bartenders who know their stuff.

The real kicker, however, is the setup of the school itself – it’s designed to feel like a real bar, complete with hands-on training and one-on-one attention from the pros. And who wouldn’t want to learn the ins and outs of mixology with a side of silly props thrown in?

The last day of class even includes a written test, so you’ll be able to impress your buddies with your knowledge of hop-filled libations in no time. Overall, if you want to shake up your skills and have some laughs along the way, National Bartending School is definitely worth a shot. Pun intended, yes.

The Bad in Yorktown Heights, New York

National Bartending School fails to impress one customer who thinks their $400 lesson is overpriced. Not only did they receive an insubstantial manual, but the classroom equipment was outdated and rusty.

The instructor, who sounded more like a young comedian than a professional bartender, failed to provide a valuable lesson and wasted the customer’s time. The customer asked for a full refund but received only 50%.

This shady operation is a disgrace to the bartending school world and sets a bad example for others. It’s like going to a fancy steakhouse and receiving a McDonald’s value meal.

The Ugly: A Bottom-Shelf Review of National Bartending School in California

Welcome to San Bernardino County! The Riverside campus of National Bartending School has garnered possibly the worst review ever, with the reviewer claiming that the whole program is a complete joke, full of liars ready to take your money and run.

According to the review, the instruction is trash and all the instructors are only there to be “cool,” providing no tips or decent advice. To add insult to injury, if you ever do manage to find a job, you’ll have to relearn everything again. The work placement program is outdated and consists of a list of businesses looking to hire bartenders.

The owner allegedly tries to act like his school has a massive reputation, but the reality is that no one knows about them.

The reviewer is beyond ticked off and plans to take them to small claims court! If you’re thinking of attending National Bartending School, you might want to keep walking with your hand firmly on your wallet; according to this review, it’s a complete waste of time and money.

Riverside National Bartending School: Your Chance to be a Fancy-Pants

Well, well, well, look who’s about to become a fancy-pants bartender! Move over, Tom Cruise in Cocktail, we’ve got a newbie in town who’s apparently the real deal, thanks to the magic of Kevin and Coty.

Evan C. of the Riverside campus of National Bartending School offers a review that’s inspiring if you’re coming into bartending with no experience.

If your ears, or eyes, perked up when we said “no experience”, check out our loaded blog section full of tips you can learn and master, right here, right now.

Not only did they take this former server turned bartender, these instructors shape them into a mixology mastermind in just a few weeks. But it doesn’t stop there (does it ever?) they also helped them land a gig at a hot spot in LA.

The Results are In–National Bartending School is an Option

In conclusion, National Bartending School is a contender to consider when choosing a bartending school.

With their comprehensive training programs, flexible payment options, and job placement assistance, it’s no wonder they have established themselves as a reputable institution in the bartending industry.

But don’t just take my word for it, do your own research and see if National Bartending School is the right fit for you. And while you’re at it, be sure to check out Local Bartending School for more reviews and insider tips on the best bartending schools out there.

So, what are you waiting for? Beginning bartending in two weeks, or bust. I dare you!

The post The Surprising Truth About National Bartending School – A Raw and Unfiltered Review You Can’t Miss! first appeared on LBS Bartending School.

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Tipping Guidelines: When, Where, and How Much?

As seasoned bartenders who teach new baby bartenders one bartending class at a time, we can tell you how good it feels when we see our tip jars filling up. So good, we might sing, ‘tip, tip, hurray!’

Global Payment Trendscollates tells us 4.4 million Americans rely on tips. So we know we’re not the only ones relying on gratuities to pay our bills. But as you’ll see, there are some people who are jumping on the no-tip bandwagon. How are service providers like us going to make it?!

So today, we’re going to talk all about tipping – tipping etiquette and general rules – basically an overall tipping guide.

And sure, Local Bartending School might typically focus on all things bar-related but we’re passionate about bringing you the right information, so keep reading and you’ll be a Gratuity Master in no time.

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Tips and Tricks for Your First Bartending Job

So you have your first official shift as a bartender coming up soon and you have a million questions running through your head. We get it–been there, done that! Your very first shift can be nerve-wracking, overwhelming, and you’ll probably walk out with sore feet.
Though we can’t be there to rub your footsies when you finally get home (take some aspirin, that’ll help!), we can give you some tips and tricks before you head in.
These are tricks I wish someone would have told me to have on my radar before I went in for my first shift.
But before we go any further, you might be wondering who the heck we are to be dishing out bartending advice. Well, I’m with Local Bartending School and between myself, the instructors, and a team of professional mixologists, we’ve used our years of experience behind the bar, in management, and university studies to collect the top 10 most essential things we think you need to know for your first day bartending.
So grab your notebook, something to write with, and allow us to tell you a few things that will help your first day behind the bar go as smooth as the Tennessee whiskey you’ll be pouring.

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TOP 7 REASONS WHY YOU NEED BARTENDING SCHOOL

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Top 9 Skills and Qualities of a Bartender

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Top Bartending Rules to Never Forget

You have a lot of choices when it comes to your job or life-long career. One of the most exciting and entertaining careers you can choose to pursue is bartending!

“A bartender is just a pharmacist with a limited inventory.”

Albert Einstein

There are countless career opportunities out there for well-trained bartenders once they complete bartending school. Once you master the technical, or hard, skills, there are certain unspoken rules that you won’t want to forget. Especially if you want to spend more than six months making alcoholic beverages.

Our team at Local Bartending School has made it our mission to get you ready for life as bartenders or mixologists.

So, mini-mixologists memorize these top 6 bartending rules and never forget them. Let’s get started!

Bartending Rule 1: Always Keep Your Bartop Happy

The first thing you need to consider when bartending for the first time is: keeping the customer happy is very important.

To start, make sure that you have all of the mixology tools that you’ll need for the day clean and ready. Make sure people at least get what they came for in a timely manner and that you’re serving alcohol in a clean glass.

Then, you can start to tailor your service for their visit. People go to the bar for all sorts of things, even to grieve. Are they celebrating? Say congrats and offer a champagne toast! Is it a romantic date? It’s probably best to make yourself available but not talk too much.

I like to think of tailoring your service as acting like a chameleon. You want to blend in with your guest’s energy and vibration; it makes them feel comfortable with you! Always follow your establishment’s steps of service and have your own personality but blend in with your bartop.

When your customers are content, cozy, and at ease, the more money you ultimately make off of tips! The more money you make in gratuity, the more you’ll love to bartend!

Main Takeaway: Have the right tools ready to make alcoholic beverages and adjust your style of service to each guest.

Bartending Rule 2: Keep it Professional (Or Say Bye to your Bartending License!)

You need to remember that you are at a job and not a party, so be sure to keep it professional and match your bar’s culture.

Most importantly, don’t give away free cocktails just to be cool or make extra money. The bar owner (aka your boss!) is looking to turn a profit and does not want all of their money going down your bartop’s throat. Plus, you’ll probably kiss your bartending license goodbye.

You can serve alcohol and have fun with your regulars–we’re not saying to be stiff. Just keep it professional. And don’t drink on the job and break the law (yes, there are alcohol laws). You’ll be fired faster before you make any of that tip money you’ve been hearing about.

Bartending Rule 3: Remember Mixologists are Always On Stage

You are the center of attention when you’re behind the bar. A great way to remember this is to pretend you’re on stage!

Watch your body movements (don’t touch your hair or nose!), stay engaging, and remember to have fun!

The last thing that people want to see is a bartender with a bad attitude. Your bartop will see you as negative and lazy. And their tips will reflect that! Stay busy, upbeat, and available and you’ll make 20% (probably more if you use aesthetic garnishes on your alcoholic beverages!) with every check.

Bartender Tip: You might also talk to more experienced bartenders to see what kind of rules they live by. You’d be surprised at all the things we pick up along at our countless bartending jobs.

Follow these 3 first rules and you’ll be able to have a long and successful career in the bartending industry. You’ll make crazy, good money wherever you work.

Bartending Rule 4: Stay Patient and Available

This goes for your bartop, coworkers, and even yourself. Be patient with yourself because you won’t become this amazing mixologist overnight–all good things take time. Like a good whiskey in a Whisky Sour.

Plus, you’ll want to be available not only for your bartop but for your entire team! When you’re just starting out behind the bar, you’ve got to prove yourself. The more you’re available to fill in during a call-off, to burn the ice well in the middle of the rush, or run food for the chef the better!

Your supervisors and veteran bartenders will start to trust you with more and more, and soon you’ll be handing that whole bartop solo.

Bartending Rule 5: Read Your Guest

In the hospitality industry, you might hear the phrase, “read your guest’. This means, to pay attention to facial cues, body language, tone of voice, and the physical environment around them.

Is the table dirty with tons of napkins and your guest is staring at you? They probably want you to come clean up, or pre-bus if your bar serves food.

Are they hardly touching the drink you just made them? They might like it, but don’t have the heart to tell you. Just ask!

You’ll get to know how people act and be able to predict what it is they need next. This is exactly how veteran bartenders and mixologists hone their service and make a ton of money from tips.

Bartending Rule 6: Work as a Team

Both standalone and restaurant bars have a lot of moving parts that all piece together to provide one magnificent service: food and drinks! From the host to the barback, all the way up to the bar owner, every single person is a necessary component.

You’re one part of that bigger picture.

And you’ll need to remember that. Always keep it in the back of your head that you’re not working as an individual, but as one cohesive team. Ditch any old notions of “that’s not my job” or “they’re not my guest”. (That’s super annoying actually, and you’ll definitely have a shorter bartending career than your peers).

Moral of the story, if you have an individualistic attitude behind the bar, you’ll quickly realize that this industry is not for you.

Jot These Down, and Don’t Ever Forget Them!

You now have six whole rules that I wish someone would have told me when I first started my bartender journey.

Honestly, I’ve kept these secrets close to my heart for so long! (Twelve years’ worth of hospitality industry knowledge if we’re counting.)

But it’s finally time I share everything with you people! Training programs don’t always teach things like reading the guest, staying available and professional, and acting as if you were a performer on stage.

I’m confident that if you keep these handy rules in mind, you’ll live long and prosperous in the world of bartending and hospitality industry.

Need a Bartending License to Step up Your Mixology Career? Local Bartending School Can Help!

Sometimes you need a hands-on approach. We totally get that. We teach classic cocktails, cocktail recipes, and other sought-after communication skills.

So, are you in the United States or Canada and want to become a bartender? Enroll at Local Bartending School for 1-on-1 alcohol training and other bartending courses!

From New York to California, we have an instructor ready to get you your bartender certification and so much more!

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What is the Difference Between Top Shelf and Well Drinks?

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What You Really Need to Know About Bartending Certifications and Licenses

Whenever we talk to folks who are just starting out in their bartending job (both with experience and without!), we always hear the same questions.

Some of the questions we receive all the time revolve around bartending licenses, bartender certifications, and bartending courses.

“Do you really need a certificate or license?” or “How long does it take?”

Even if you’re a seasoned bartender, you might consider enrolling to earn your license or certificate and still have a burning list of questions.

No matter what brings you here, in this post you’ll learn the difference between a bartending license and bartender certification, find out where you can obtain either one and even we’ll even cover the most frequently asked questions asked by readers just like you.

So grab a drink in that fancy glassware you never get to use, and let’s get started!

What is a Bartender License?

Simply put, a bartender license is either what you receive after course completion or what’s required of you by law to bartend.

What is a Bartender Certification?

Usually, local ordinances are in effect that will ask you to obtain the correct documents to bartend. This term is sometimes used to describe the document (or certificate) you earn when you enroll and eventually graduate from bartending school.

Even if you’ve been behind the bar for a while and can do all sorts of impressive, cool tricks, you’ll still need to get the basic documentation that’s required of you by law.

What’s the difference between a bartending license and a certificate?

I’m going to give you a little hint: there’s no difference! These two terms are used interchangeably. Why? Essentially, at a national level, there isn’t a standard document or training program required to be a bartender. It’s up to local laws and ordinances, which can make the terminology a little hard to pin down.

Just ask yourself what you need to legally bartend and you’ll be set!

Your future employer might ensure you have your ducks in a row (and sometimes cover the cost of training), but don’t rely on them! If you’re in the process of job hunting and already have the skills necessary, you can start earning cash more quickly by having all the legal things already taken care of so you can start tending the bar right away.

Answering Your Bartending School Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get certified in bartending?

Quite easily, actually! Enroll in a bartending school, do the coursework, and viola–you’re certified. Another route is to identify exactly what your county or local laws are and follow those guidelines. Typically, it’s a responsible alcohol server permit but can be highly variable from place to place.

How long does it take to get a bartending certificate?

Anywhere from two to 40 hours! Just following local laws? You’re probably more toward the two-hour mark. For those of you going in-depth and taking the wise way of school, you’ll be looking at that 40 hours.

What do you need to get certified as a bartender?

You’ll usually need a government-issued ID, but make sure to triple-check local laws!

Can you get your bartending license only?

Now that we know that a bartender certificate is the same thing as a license, we know that we can get away with either one to serve alcoholic beverages! Just be sure to follow all local laws and that’s what’s required at a minimum.

How much does certification training cost?

Obtaining the documentation from a certification course that you need to serve alcohol can run you a bill that is highly variable and depends on where you’re located, where you’ll be attending, and how much experience you have.

We’ve ranked training courses from inexpensive to expensive.

InexpensiveObtaining minimum local requirementsSomewhat ExpensiveOnline bartending schoolIntermediate SkillsExpensive In-personBartending 101

Where You Can Get Your Alcohol Server Certification

New York

The minimum age to become a bartender in New York is 18. However, state law requires drinkers to be 21.

The best part about being a bartender in NYC is the leniency in its alcoholic laws. Alcohol cannot be consumed only from 4:00 am to 8:00 am, but the rest of the day is all yours to visit any pub or bar you want.

All you have to do is get the required training with the help of Local Bartending School and pass the exam to get your certificate. The exam usually only takes about 30 minutes!

Online New York Bartending Course Costs up to $8.99 – $399

California/Los Angeles

Held once a month, the cost of this course is $149.00. Courses may be taken online. However, an in-person final exam will be followed by a proctor.

But with LBS, things are a little different! This top-ranked certification is valid throughout California. California accepts our online certification. The control board does not require a proctored exam, which means you don’t have to sit in front of a person to take the test. The test will take about half an hour. Additional proctoring fees apply. These fees are not included in the cost of the course.

Within California, the legal age to consume alcoholic beverages is 21. California state law requires all bars to close by 2:00 AM. (Some municipalities require an earlier closing.)

Las Vegas, Nevada

The cost for a course in Nevada ranges from $8.99 to $399.99. Even if you earn your certification with Local Bartending School, you’ll still need to take a proctored exam.

The test takes almost 30 minutes and there is a fee for this exam. The training is so extensive that the students actually get to sit at the bars where the qualified instructors show how to prepare all kinds of drinks and beverages so that they practically learn it.

Florida

To become a licensed bartender, you’ll need to be at least 18 years of age.

All you have to do is register for your course, take the required training and pass the examination to get a certificate. LBS offers training online, in a class, and in-person according to what suits you the most. There is no restriction or rules except for the age criteria in Florida, plus LBS is the most authentic and state-accredited institution to get a license in the United States.

On Your Couch With Local Bartending School!

Our professionals can come to you at home (whether you’re in Michigan, New Jersey, or New Mexico!), or show can easily you the swing of things at one of our locations on-premise. Just click here to ask about what’s available near you, and when!

The Main Difference Between In-Person Bartending Schools and Online Bartending Schools

Bartending school that’s held in person is typically way more expensive! You can get certified online and it’s usually cheaper.

But be careful! There are some well-known risks to choosing the wrong bartending school.

First, you could miss out on a lot of hands-on experience. Plus, a cheap online bartending school typically means a cheap-looking certification. Don’t think your potential boss won’t notice! They will.

So if you want a good place to learn the ins and outs of bartending (and I mean all of them), check out Local Bartending School!

You’ll learn:

Over 200 drink recipes, ranging from basic to bougieHow to prepare and memorize several cocktails, quickly & easilyThe best ways to cut fruit, garnishes, & decorations for specialty, hand-crafted crafted cocktailsHow to set up and maintain a clean & efficient bar workstation

Not to mention, bar owners and hiring managers perceive Local Bartending School with high value! Once you’re done with your jam-packed course at LBS and have your certification in hand, you’ll be able to find your dream bar job in no time.

Did You Know? A Certification from Local Bartending School Works in All States!

Yup, you read that right. Local Bartending School is the only school that will certify you in all states. All through one, single hands-on course!

Planning a move to a new place that’s out of state? No problem. The team at LBS will officially register your certification to your new state. Welcome home!

We should note, however, that some states may require you to pay a fee and even take a live proctored exam (looking at you, Nevada, Colorado, Rhode Island, Alaska, Maryland, and Tennesee). But looking on the bright side, you won’t need to retake the course all over again.

A Local Alcohol Server Training Program For You!

Whether you’re on your way to becoming a professional bartender or just here for the responsible serving of alcohol, our team at Local Bartending School is ready to be your trusted training provider. For more information or to just get ahold of someone, click here. You can easily reach one of our instructors who are ready to get you certified and earning money!

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Work-Life Balance: A Bartender’s Edition

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