The Hammond Regional Arts Center looks towards a third successful year of “Art of the Cocktail” with an increase in bartenders.

“Art of the Cocktail” is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 8 starting at 6:30 p.m. in HRAC.

This year, the theme is Moulin Rouge, and the number of participating bartenders grew to 13. Attendees can try cocktails made by Hammond bartenders while mingling and listening to live music.

“Last year was a packed house, so we wanted people to be able to enjoy the event better by having the entrance to this year’s ‘Art of the Cocktail’ in the back of the HRAC,” shared Tara Bennett, media coordinator for HRAC. “Guests can enjoy live music from Baton Rouge chamber folk band Minos the Saint while sipping on cocktails outside before entering inside for more cocktails and to enjoy the sounds of Moulin Rouge with cabaret singer Raynel Shepard accompanied by pianist Harry Malone.”

Turnout from previous years encouraged HRAC to continue holding the event.

“The past two years have been an overwhelming success and continues to grow each year,” said Bennett. “It’s by far our most popular event. We always have people coming in wanting to buy tickets the day of, but we encourage them to purchase tickets in advance.”

Tickets must be purchased in advance at the arts center, by phone or online.

The “Art of the Cocktail” includes the choice of an audience favorite cocktail and a Best in Show award as selected by the judges. Competition, however, does not take the central role at the event.

“This competition is actually more of a celebration of the innovation and ingenuity that is still found in the city of Hammond,” explained Bennett. “What better way for our local restaurants and bars to show that art can be found within a glass than with a cocktail tasting?”

Clarification: The theme of this year’s “Art of the Cocktail,” Moulin Rouge, is based on the cabaret in Paris, France.