Raise Your Glass: The 5th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition Returns This September
The stage is set. The shakers are primed. The talent? Next level. Charlotte, it’s time to shake things up. The countdown is officially on for one of the city’s most highly anticipated celebrations of cocktail culture and feminine power behind the bar. On Sunday, September 28, 2025, from 4 PM to 8 PM, Battle of the Babes is taking over the rooftop at Merchant + Trade for its fifth year—and this year promises to be bigger, bolder, and more flavorful than ever.
What Is Battle of the Babes?
At its core, Battle of the Babes is more than a competition. It’s a movement. A platform. A party. A toast to the women behind the bar who aren’t just mixing drinks—they’re making waves. This event brings together some of the most talented female bartenders and mixologists in the region to compete in a high-stakes showdown that celebrates flavor, flair, and female creativity. But it’s also a night of camaraderie, connection, and community that goes far beyond the cocktail glass.
And this year? We’re going bigger, bolder, and even more unforgettable.
What's Included in Your Ticket: This isn't your average night out. Each ticket to the Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition 2025 includes:
Eight expertly crafted cocktails from competing bartenders
Heavy hors d’oeuvres to keep you fueled while you sip
A curated swag bag filled with gifts and goodies from our partners
Rooftop vibes and city views from one of Charlotte’s most iconic venues
A celebration of creativity, competition, and community you’ll be talking about all season
Early Bird Gets the Booze
Tickets are now officially on sale—and trust us when we say they won’t last. Year after year, this event sells out, and earlybird pricing is your best opportunity to lock in an unforgettable night at a better rate. If you’ve been meaning to gather the crew for a glamorous rooftop experience or want to immerse yourself in Charlotte’s most exciting hospitality event of the year, now is the time to act.
Grab your early bird tickets now before prices go up!
A Glance Back: 2024 Was One for the Books
In case you missed last year’s battle, let’s set the scene.
With the city skyline glittering in the background, Merchant + Trade played host to a dynamic lineup of bartenders who brought their A-game. From tropical clarifications to herbal-forward flavor bombs, every glass told a story—and the guests got to taste them all.
Last year’s winners brought innovation and identity to their craft:
Yolanda Gregg’s Aguardiente Mojo took first place with its pandan, banana liqueur, and passionfruit notes.
Cecelia Crook earned second for her Thai basil–infused Green Anole.
Jenna “Duckie” Reynolds secured third with her Lovely Lady Plums, and
Ky Brown won the People’s Choice for her boldly spiced Harvest Bloom.
Guests danced between rounds, voted on their favorites, and engaged with spirited vendors and sponsors who made the event feel like a true community celebration. It was more than a competition—it was a rooftop renaissance of flavor, talent, and feminine energy.
Want Your Brand at the Bar?
For businesses, Battle of the Babes offers unmatched exposure in a vibrant, engaged community. From beverage brands and beauty lines to lifestyle startups and wellness companies—this event is an ideal opportunity to align your business with bold creativity and premium experiences.
Sponsors receive access to:
Brand Exposure – Be seen by a curated audience of trend-savvy consumers and industry pros
Targeted Marketing – Promote your products to the right people, in the right environment
Product Placement – Put your goods directly into the hands of our guests
Community Engagement – Build meaningful relationships with patrons and partners
Networking Opportunities – Meet key players across hospitality, media, and lifestyle
Social Media Exposure – Extend your reach with event coverage across platforms
Personalized Content – Create brand moments worth remembering and sharing
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Email us at info@wearehoco.com to explore sponsorship tiers and find the perfect fit for your brand.
Beyond the Bar: Entertainment, Energy, and Everything In Between
It’s not just about drinks. Our carefully curated DJs bring a pulse to the evening, with beats that get the crowd moving and keep the rooftop buzzing. Expect high energy, unexpected surprises, and lots of camera-ready moments. Guests will also enjoy pop-up vendors, photo opportunities, and an after-sunset vibe that feels part fashion show, part block party, part industry celebration. At a time when many in hospitality are still rebuilding, this competition represents something powerful: progress. It’s a platform for women to lead, create, and be celebrated for their artistry in an industry that hasn’t always made room for them.
By attending, you’re not just enjoying great drinks—you’re supporting that mission.
And with HoCo behind it all, the evening is a reflection of a bigger vision: a thriving, united hospitality community that celebrates talent, collaboration, and reinvention.
Don't Miss the 5th Annual Battle of the Babes Cocktail Competition. Mark your calendar:
📍 Merchant + Trade | 303 S Church St., Charlotte
📅 Sunday, September 28, 2025
🕓 4 PM to 8 PM
Come for the cocktails. Stay for the culture. Leave inspired.
Take advantage of early bird pricing today and secure your place at the year’s most buzzed-about rooftop event.
