Coeur d'Alene Casino mixes it up with Bar Wars

If you visit the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel this Saturday night, you might need a designated driver for the Millennium Falcon.

That’s because the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel is hosting a bartending competition called “Bar Wars” in the Red Tail Bar & Grill. Bartenders from the Vegas Flair Academy will also put on an exhibition complete with bar tricks. The show starts at 6 p.m. and is open to the public.

Guest bartenders from Coeur d’Alene, Spokane and surrounding areas will compete for prize money in the following categories: best overall cocktail, best theme involvement, and people’s choice. Winners for all categories will be announced at 10 p.m.

“This is always such a fun event to plan and enjoy,” said Dustin Brouse, the casino's area food and beverage manager. “The show from local bartenders and the Vegas Flair Academy is impressive and this year’s riff on Star Wars should lead to some creative drinks."

In addition to the live show and competition, attendees will be treated to cocktail samplings and specials, hors d’oeuvres buffet, door prizes and music from DJ Crooze. Tickets to Bar Wars are $30 and are available on TicketsWest.com. Must be at least 21 years old with valid ID to attend.