Events
Entertaining on a Budget
Thu, May 27th 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 2021 online Facebook Live, Instagram @pdxcwTake the anxiety out of entertaining with a few helpful hosting tips from Johnny & Taneka, The Cocktail Bandits. The duo have gathered their best tips on saving money and time when hosting an event, from a baby shower, barbecue or bachelorette party! Sponsored by Ketel One Botanical Peach & Orange Blossom. facebook.com/pdxcw or @pdxcw on Instagram
Served Up Neat
Wed, Sep 29th 7:00 PM - Wed, Oct 20th 7:00 PM 2021 Online Facebook, Audio SeriesThe Cocktail Bandits have partnered with Facebook for an audio series called, ‘Served Up Neat’. The duo will discuss misconceptions and stereotypes about minority beverage consumers. Make sure you have the most recent version of the @facebook app on your mobile device, as you can only access the discussion via your mobile phone. Upcoming Audio Event dates listed below: Wednesday, September 29th at 7PM EST – Black People Don’t Host Beverage Conferences with Ashtin Berry, founder of Radical Exchange Monday, October 4th at 7PM EST – Black People Don’t Drink Moonshine with Dr. Howard Conyers Wednesday, October 20th at 7PM EST – Black People Don’t Drink Fine Wine with Traveling Sommelier, Cha McCoy – RESCHEDULED Follow The Cocktail Bandits on Facebook and Instagram so you don’t miss any of the action!
Tek Cyear uh de Root – Beer Panel Discussion
Thu, Nov 4th 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM 2021 CommonHouse Ale Works 4831 O'Hear Ave North Charleston, SCDuring Charleston Beer Week, we offer a celebration of community through food and drink, deconstructing historic prejudice and rebuilding critical connections for a new generation. Based on the research and writing that uncovered the historical connections, and divides, of Charleston communities that remain today, the Tek Cyear uh de Root Festival aims to use food, drink, and conversation to better understand today’s inequitable spaces, and how they were originally constructed. With empathy and understanding, we believe that we are all responsible for taking care of that root. Historic celebrations like The Charleston Schützenfest were used to isolate, intimidate, and disenfranchise Charleston community members. We aim to leverage a similar power to connect and rebuild those same connections in the present. We aim to get at the root. Join us for an evening of beer drinking, dish passing, and deliberate conversation featuring Gullah Geechee artisans and food vendors, beers from Commonhouse Aleworks and Edmund’s Oast Brewing Company, music from The Dance Doctors, and a panel discussion with Good Beer Hunting writer, Jamaal Lemon, and The Cocktail Bandits, Johnny Caldwell and Taneka Reaves, moderated by KJ Kearney of Black Food Fridays. Watch the preview here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RpfGud50W_k
Holiday Cocktail Class
Wed, Nov 10th 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM 2021 Online Facebook Live, JeanneszyiavipsLadies Only Event- Learn how to make an amazing cocktail for the holidays, see some Zyia fashions and be entered to win a signed copy of the cocktail book made by these beautiful ladies! Presented by Jeanne Malota – Independent Ziya Representative
Trappy Hour 2021
Sun, Nov 21st 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM 2021 The Royal American Charleston, SCThe awarding winning live hip hop event is back and even Trappier. Meet us at The Royal American for the Winter edition of Charleston’s favorite Sunday night party. Trappy Hour features performances by local artists with 75% of the music played throughout the night coming from Charleston independent artists. Shejay TO will be creating the vibes for the evening. Doors Open at 8PM. Enjoy delicious Espolòn Tequila + Reb Bull cocktails all night! #GentleLadySips
Black Bartender Crawl
Tue, Feb 21st 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM 2023 Downtown Charleston, SCGet to know some of Charleston’s top bartenders during this tour celebrating Black History Month and Black Bartenders in the Holy City. Charleston has some of the most talented and innovative mixologist in the Southeast. This tour aims to highlight some of the Black bartenders in the Holy City bar scene. The group will visit four different bars to enjoy four unique and custom cocktail created specifically for the tour. Every cocktail will feature a premium spirit made with Ciroc, Ciroc VS or Deleon Tequila. Each cocktail is paired with a delicious snack to compliment the cocktail and reflect the vibe of each venue. The tour is guided by Charleston’s Beverage Ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits. Event is sponsored by Diageo
Essences & Aromatics
Thu, Mar 2nd 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 2023 1056 King Street Charleston, SCExplore your senses. Understand the nuances of scent and the history of cologne making while crafting your very own aromatic Gin cocktail. Fragrances have the potential to transport you to a foreign land or recall a distant memory. Blend your own signature scent that captivates any room and inspires imagination. Fragrance demonstration lead by Tijon Charleston. Charleston Beverage Ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits, will explore and explain the similarities between blending oils and blending spirits. Additionally, attendees will craft their own aromatic and herbaceous Gin based cocktail. Gin is made of a variety of herbs, spices and botanicals.
Woman Crush Wendesday
Wed, Mar 8th 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM 2023 Share House 23 Ann Street Charleston, SCCome join us for an International Women’s Day Celebration! We will be on a panel of female entrepreneurs at 6pm, a female vendor market from 7-9pm AND an acoustic set by Taylor Jarvis of @themidnightcityband A portion of proceeds will be donated to @mysistershouseinc a local charity that helps break the cycle of domestic violence. Check out their website to see what donations they are looking for, as they’ll be accepting them at the event!
Taste of Black Charleston
Fri, Mar 10th 7:30 PM - 11:00 PM 2023 International African American Museum 14 Wharfside St Charleston, SCThe Black Expo is back in the Lowcountry. They have a weekend full of events starting with the Taste of Black Charleston on Friday, March 10th at the International African American Museum. We will be there shaking up cocktails featuring Jack Daniels. Come see us!
History & Rum Workshop
Wed, Mar 15th 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM 2023 TBA Charleston, SCWe have partnered with Historic Charleston Foundation to host two beverage workshops to educate on the diverse the diverse history of spirits and some simple tips for crafting cocktails at home. Charleston’s unique connection to the Spice Islands. Our first workshop focuses on the rich history of rum sugar can cultivation and Charleston’s unique connection to the Spice Islands. Rum has been a staple in Charleston culture since this city’s settlement. The sugar cane based spirit was enjoyed by settlers and sailors alike while also being used as a bartering tool. Charleston beverage ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits, will lead the group through an informative and educational Rum tasting and craft cocktail demonstration. Attendees will sample a variety of Rums including Appleton Estate and Wray & Nephew.
Women's Month Cocktail Crawl
Tue, Mar 28th 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM 2023 Downtown Charleston, SCCharleston has some of the most talented and innovative mixologist in the Southeast. This tour aims to highlight some of the women bartenders in the Holy City bar scene. The group will visit four different bars to enjoy four unique and custom cocktail created specifically for the tour. Every cocktail will feature a premium spirit made with Appleton Rum or Aperol. Each cocktail is paired with a delicious snack to compliment the cocktail and reflect the vibe of each venue. The tour is guided by Charleston’s Beverage Ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits. Event is sponsored by Campari.
Pride Month Cocktail Crawl
Wed, Jun 14th 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM 2023 Downtown Charleston, SCCharleston has some of the most talented and innovative mixologist in the Southeast. This tour aims to highlight some of the LGBTQIA bartenders in the Holy City bar scene. The group hop aboard a party bus to visit four different bars to enjoy four unique and custom cocktail created specifically for the tour. Each cocktail will highlight one of our featured spirits: Jack Daniels, Chambord Liqueur or Herradura Tequila. Each cocktail is paired with a delicious snack to compliment the cocktail and reflect the vibe of each venue. The tour is guided by Charleston’s Beverage Ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits and will include special guests entertainment and gift bags. Event is powered by Brown-Forman.
Juneteenth Cocktail Crawl
Tue, Jun 20th 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM 2023 Downtown Charleston, SCCharleston has some of the most talented and innovative mixologist in the Southeast. To celebrate Juneteenth and Black Excellence, this tour aims to highlight some of the Black bartenders in the Holy City bar scene. The group will hop aboard a party bus to visit four different bars to enjoy four unique and custom cocktail created specifically for the tour. Every cocktail will feature a premium spirit made with Jack Daniels and Herradura Tequila. Each cocktail is paired with a delicious snack to compliment the cocktail and reflect the vibe of each venue.
Tequila Sunrise Social
Wed, Jun 21st 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM 2023 AZUL 385 Meeting Street Charleston, SCCelebrate #NationalTequilaSunriseDay with us and Santo Tequila! We provide the cocktails, snacks, prizes and vibes. You provide the energy and dance moves. Free to attend.
Summer Sipper with Bourbon Women ATL
Sat, Jun 24th 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM 2023 TBA Atlanta, GAWe are taking our talents down to Atlanta for a private event sponsored by the Bourbon Women of Atlanta. We are hosting an immersive cocktail creation class with a little Lowcountry history! We will gather at the home of our fellow Bourbon Women member, Jen Cole Beaver, in Brookhaven. Address will be provided after registration. Light bites will be provided.
Bayhaven Food & Wine Festival
Sun, Oct 8th 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM 2023 TBA Charleston, SC
Latinx Heritage Month Cocktail Crawl
Wed, Oct 11th 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM 2023 Downtown Charleston, SCCharleston has some of the most talented and innovative mixologist in the Southeast. To celebrate Latinx Heritage Month, this tour aims to highlight some of the bartenders of Latin descent in the Holy City bar scene. The group will hop aboard a party bus to visit four different bars to enjoy four unique and custom cocktail created specifically for the tour. Every cocktail will feature a premium spirit. Each cocktail is paired with a delicious snack to compliment the cocktail and reflect the vibe of each venue. The tour is guided by Charleston’s Beverage Ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits.
Cocktails & Candles Workshop
Wed, Oct 18th 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM 2023 Redux Art Center 1056 King Street Charleston, SCJoin Charleston Beverage Ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits and local artist, Daisy McClellan for a night of colorful cocktails and candles. In this workshop you’ll learn how to make a dyed soy candle and create an amazing color changing cocktail that will make you the star of your next party.Local artist, Daisy McClellan will guide you through the process of candle making from beginning to end. We’ll be using vintage cocktail glasses from her curated collection to make a candle that looks just like a delicious drink. Best part is you can reuse your glass to enjoy the drink recipe you learn from The Cocktail Bandits after you burn your candle. We’ll use cocktail inspired scents like lime, vanilla, mango, pineapple and more to create your own custom scented candle. And we will also have fun dyeing our wax with your choice of color.Johnny Caldwell and Taneka Reaves of Cocktail Bandits will explore and explain the similarities between making candles and blending spirits. They will guide attendees into crafting their own aromatic and herbaceous cocktail that has the coolest color changing trick you won’t want to miss.
Transformation Table
Fri, Jan 12th 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM 2024 14 Wharfside Street Charleston, SCSponsored by the International African American Museum, the MLK Beloved Community Dinner is the first event hosted by Transformation Table Lowcountry, a collaborative partnership between Transformation Table and YWCA Greater Charleston. Created as a new event to YWCA Greater Charleston’s MLK Celebration, the dinner has been designed where understanding prevails, divisions crumble, and guests uniquely connect with each other, an embodiment of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s vision of a Beloved Community: a space of social equity, belonging, and freedom from prejudice. The concept, initially conceived by philosopher Josiah Royce and championed by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., continues to inspire people worldwide to form a world free from societal divisions and prejudices. Senegalese and French Chef Bintou N’Daw, is the owner of the African restaurant, Bintü Atelier African-Inspired Cuisine in Charleston’s East Side neighborhood, where she serves up dishes inspired by the vibrant flavors of Africa and her own food story. From St. Loius, Senegal, she and her mother, Nafissatou Camara, are the creators of Nafi’s Hot Pepper Condiments and Sauces. She previously worked as a private chef in New York and Senegal before taking a job at Chez Nous in Charleston, reminding her of her grandmother’s French heritage. The Cocktail Bandits have designed a cocktail and mocktail for attendees to enjoying featuring Aperol, Appleton Rum and Amethyst Non Alcoholic Spirits. We look forward to seeing you at the Table!
Dry January Mocktail Crawl
Wed, Jan 24th 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM 2024 Somewhere Downtown Charleston, SCJoin us as we enjoy a diverse array of expertly crafted non-alcoholic concoctions at four different Charleston bars to showcase the innovation and skill of mixologists dedicated to providing unique and satisfying experiences for those choosing a sober lifestyle. The crawl not only celebrates the artistry of mocktail creation but also promotes a positive and inclusive social atmosphere, encouraging a mindful approach to drinking and reinforcing the idea that enjoyable and sophisticated beverages can be enjoyed without the need for alcohol. The tour is guided by Charleston's Beverage Ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits. Cocktails will feature Amethyst Non Alcoholic Botanical Spirit and Seedlip Non Alcoholic Spirits.
Taste of Gullah Geechee
Sun, Feb 4th 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM 2024 7910 Dorchester Road North Charleston, SCJoin the Carolimas Team as they kick off Black History Month with culturally inspired cuisine prepared by some of Charleston’s top, talented, community chefs! We will feature more than a dozen chefs with cuisine ranging from savory to sweet. Your ticket allows you to enjoy the sample sized tastings from each Chef as you learn about the history of how the African diaspora has inspired the way we enjoy food in the Gullah Geechee corridor.Enjoy the fellowship, music and hand crafted cocktails by The Cocktail Bandits.
Rice & Roots
Sat, Feb 10th 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM 2024 51 Meeting Street Charleston, SCIn celebration of Black History Month, we pay homage to a humble grain, rice. Join us for a mouthwatering event at the historic Nathaniel Russell House in downtown Charleston. Indulge in a tantalizing array of dishes that celebrate the rich heritage of rice and the roots of rice cultivation that extends to Western Africa and beyond.From savory rice dishes to flavorful root vegetables , enjoy dishes that highlight the versatailty of the humble grain including Jollof Rice, Red Rice, and even rice desserts.The meal will be accompanied by side dishes and a curated cocktail menu created by The Cocktail Bandits that will feature rice based spirits including Sparkling Sake and Rice Whiskies. Don't miss out on this unforgettable gastronomic experience!
Whiskey & Waves: Scotch & Oyster pairing event
Sat, Feb 17th 4:00 PM - 4:00 PM 2024 1021 Aragon Avenue North Charleston, South CarolinaIn celebration and appreciation of our coastal waterways, we present a unique pairing experience: Scotch & Oysters. Join us at Holy City Brewing for an unforgettable evening of scotch and oyster pairing!Located on Aragon Avenue in North Charleston this in-person event promises to tantalize your taste buds with a perfect blend of smoky scotch and fresh briny oysters. Indulge in the rich flavors as our experts guide you through a unique tasting experience. Try oysters prepared four different ways (Raw, Smoked, Fried and Steamed) all paired with unctuous 12 year Scotch. Learn how to properly shuck oysters and prepare a custom oyster shooter followed by a traditional oyster roast! Whether you're a scotch connoisseur or a seafood lover, this event is a must-attend!Event powered by Brown Forman.
Black Bartender Bar Crawl
Wed, Feb 28th 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM 2024 Somewhere Downtown Charleston, South CarolinaGet to know some of Charleston's top bartenders during this tour celebrating Black History Month and Black Bartenders in the Holy City. Charleston has some of the most talented and innovative mixologists in the Southeast. This tour aims to highlight some of the Black bartenders in the Holy City bar scene. The group will hop aboard a Crafted Travel Charleston coach to visit four different bars to enjoy four unique and custom cocktails created specifically for the tour. Each cocktail is paired with a delicious snack to compliment the cocktail and reflect the vibe of each venue. The tour is guided by Charleston's Beverage Ambassadors, The Cocktail Bandits. Event powered by Bacardi!
Taste of Black Charleston
Fri, Mar 8th 7:30 PM - Tue, Mar 19th 11:00 PM 2024 375 Meeting Street Charleston, South CarolinaExperience the Taste of Black Charleston! Step into a world where every dish tells a story and every flavor sings of history. On March 8th, 2024, join us at the Charleston Visitors Center for a night where our culinary culture takes center stage, from 7:30 pm to 11:00 pm. Get your ticket, bring your appetite, your dancing shoes and prepare to experience the Taste of Black Charleston. We're serving a speciality cocktail featuring Crown Royal! See you there!
AFRObeats Afterparty
Sat, Mar 9th 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM 2024 3245 Rivers Avenue North Charleston, SCGet ready to groove and move at the AfroBeats Afterparty! Join us for a night of non-stop dancing and good vibes. Our DJs will be spinning a mixture of AfroBeats tracks and Charleston hits all night long. After a week of celebrating Charleston's culinary scene join us for a dance party you won't soon forget! This all-inclusive event offers local eats, Rum and Tequila cocktails. Event powered by Appleton Rum & Espolon Tequila.
Beverage Workshop
Tue, Mar 19th 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM 2024 181 Church Street Charleston, SCFormerly known as the Festival of Houses and Gardens, The Charleston Festival is Historic Charleston Foundation's largest fundraising and educational event of the year. Become an insider with tours of some of the most beautiful private homes and gardens in Charleston, SC and discover the intersection of preservation and design through exciting lectures, workshops, concerts and social gatherings at some of Charleston's most historic landmarks. The Charleston Festival supports Historic Charleston Foundation and its mission-driven work. Elevate your mixology skills with Charleston-based mixologists, the Cocktail Bandits. Johnny and Taneka will explore the history behind some of our favorite spirits while you savor your own cocktails. This event promises an evening of delicious discoveries and new trivia for impressing your friends.
Beverage Workshop #2
Tue, Apr 2nd 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM 2024 181 Church Street Charleston, SCFormerly known as the Festival of Houses and Gardens, The Charleston Festival is Historic Charleston Foundation's largest fundraising and educational event of the year. Become an insider with tours of some of the most beautiful private homes and gardens in Charleston, SC and discover the intersection of preservation and design through exciting lectures, workshops, concerts and social gatherings at some of Charleston's most historic landmarks. The Charleston Festival supports Historic Charleston Foundation and its mission-driven work. Elevate your mixology skills with Charleston-based mixologists, the Cocktail Bandits. Johnny and Taneka will explore the history behind some of our favorite spirits while you savor your own cocktails. This event promises an evening of delicious discoveries and new trivia for impressing your friends.
Shake & Paint
Thu, Apr 11th 6:30 PM - 9:00 PM 2024 Redux Art Center Charleston, SCGet ready to unleash your inner artist as we combine painting with a twist of shaking! This event is perfect for art enthusiasts and beginners alike. Let your imagination run wild as you create your own masterpiece under the guidance of our talented instructor, Lekisa Coleman-Smith of Crafty Gems Boutique Events. The painting demonstration is followed by a mixology session hosted by The Cocktail Bandits. Learn how to make some fun party cocktails. Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to explore your artistic side and connect with fellow art lovers in a vibrant setting. All painting materials will be provided along with refreshments and craft cocktails. See you there! Event powered by Espolon Tequila & Grand Marnier. Always drink responsibly.
Historic Cocktail and Spirits Series: Tequila and Mezcal with the Cocktail Bandits
Tue, May 7th 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM 2024 360 Meeting Street Charleston, SCGuests are invited to join the Charleston Museum for a brand-new cocktail series to explore a range of spirits and wine. On May 7th, join Taneka Reeves and Johnny Caldwell of the Cocktail Bandits for a special tequila and mezcal workshop. Tequila is more than a shot followed by salt and a bite of lime. The practice of growing agave to produce Tequila is a time honored tradition passed on to each generation with pride. Learn more about the Tequila making process from The Cocktail Bandits, Charleston’s Official Beverage Ambassadors. The pair are certified in Tequila by the Mexican Regulatory Commission on Tequila and both share a deep love for agave based spirits. Guests will sample a range of Tequila expressions and brands including Lalo Tequila and Carreta de Oro Tequila & Mezcal. Tickets are all inclusive and include spirit education, hands-on demonstration, 2 cocktails, and 5 spirit samples, and paired food. Mocktails can be provided for guests looking for a spirit-free experience. For any allergens or to request a mocktail experience, please email bdalesandro@charlestonmuseum.org. For guests 21 years of age and older. Reservations required. Classes with insufficient enrollment may be canceled. Students will be notified in advance and full refunds or the opportunity to transfer to another workshop will be offered. Student cancellations must be requested 48 hours in advance for a refund minus $10 administration fee. Full registration fee may be transferred to a future workshop or other adult program. Cancellations made less than 48 hours in advance will result in a forfeiture of workshop fee. Members $75 | Non–Member $85 Register online or call 843.722.2996 ext. 235.
Flora & Flavor: Flower arrangement & mixology session
Sat, May 11th 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM 2024 1056 King Street Charleston, South CarolinaLearn the art of flower arrangement and mixology in this hands-on class. Our expert florist, Juan Tolley, owner of the Flower Garden, will guide you through creating stunning floral displays from an assortment of seasonal blooms. After crafting your personal Mother's Day bouquet or bouquet gift, indulge in the exquisite flavors of floral liqueurs and an assortment of domestic and international Gins. The Cocktail Bandits will lead you through an education on Gin and teach you how to craft a floral theme cocktail! Whether you're celebrating with your friends, mom, or grandmother, this event promises an evening of joy, connection and celebration.
