The celebration returns Saturday, February 28, 2026!
Liquid Courage 2026 returns to the Baltimore Museum of Industry for its highly anticipated second annual celebration. This signature event is dedicated to honoring Maryland’s rich cocktail and distilling history, building upon the success of its inaugural year.
Continuing to draw inspiration from the BMI’s acclaimed Neighborhood Corner Bar Exhibit, Liquid Courage 2026 is more than just a tasting event; it is a dynamic, celebratory space. We aim to honor the hospitality industry by recreating the spirit of the longest-lasting “third space”—the local corner bar. This essential community fixture is where people have historically connected, nourished each other through shared food, drink, and conversation, and fostered strong communal bonds. By recognizing the craft, tradition, and innovation of the Hospitality Industry, Liquid Courage 2026 celebrates these vital connections and the enduring cultural importance of Maryland’s distilling legacy.
The Experience:
Expanded Workshops and Demonstrations: Featuring leading figures in the distilling and mixology community, these sessions will offer deeper dives into the history, craft, and innovative techniques of the industry.
Curated Tastings: A diverse selection of Maryland-made spirits, from classic whiskeys to contemporary gins, will be available, offering a true taste of local craftsmanship. This year spirits and brews are paired with established and talented caterers and eateries from across Baltimore to create a diverse and balanced meal alongside your experience.
Live Music and Entertainment: Soundtrack your experience or spend the evening on the dancefloor with returning popular musical acts Tyler Moonlight & Band and DJ Mister Vershawn.
Hands-On Activities: In addition to educational workshops, interactive stations will allow guests to engage directly with the art of cocktail making and learn about the raw materials and processes involved in distillation.
Tickets:
One ticket to explore it all. Your General Admission ticket for Liquid Courage gets you access to all the great activities this event has to offer; live music, dancing, open bars, food pairings, engaging activations, and informational workshops. Celebrate the history and innovation of distilling, cocktailing, and brewing in Maryland with us!
General Admission: $125 Until February 28
Member Admission: $90 Until February 28
*Tickets will remain available until they are sold out. Early bird tickets are on sale from December 15, 2025 to January 12, 2026. Member tickets are available for BMI members only through event day or until they are sold out.
2026 Liquid Courage Workshops
Anatomy of a Cocktail
Brendan Dorr | Dutch Courage
A guided tasting and conversation that breaks down what makes a great cocktail. Guests will explore structure, balance, and intention through classic and contemporary builds, gaining a deeper understanding of how spirits, modifiers, and technique come together in the glass.
Spirit & Story: A Conversation
Kay Bennet, Crystal Rivera, & Eli Breitburg-Smith
An intimate conversation exploring the people behind the pours. This session centers storytelling, identity, and lived experience in the spirits industry, inviting guests to consider how culture, place, and personal journey shape what and how we drink.
Shrubs & Balance
Nikolas Hill | threeSPICE Fruit Shrubs
Guests learn the fundamentals of shrub-making, including flavor building, balance, and practical use. This workshop explores how shrubs can be applied across cocktails, no- and low-alcohol beverages, and even culinary contexts. If feasible, guests will leave with a small take-home sample to continue experimenting beyond the event.
Beyond the Proof – The Art of LO/NO Mixology
Ezra Allen | Cane Collective
An exploration of no- and low-alcohol mixology that puts creativity and care at the center. Guests will learn how to build layered, thoughtful drinks using non-alcoholic spirits and fresh ingredients, expanding what hospitality and celebration can look like beyond alcohol.
Check Out Last Year’s Event
