Weekend Planner: Bloody Mary Competition, Tailgating in the Sky, WhirlyCruz Cup

Bloody Mary Pro/Am Competition

The almighty Bloody Mary gets its glory on Sunday, October 4, for a friendly little boozy competition. Beginning at noon, Autre Monde Cafe & Spirits plays host to a Bloody Mary Pro/Am competition between alumni from Autre Monde cocktail classes and some of Chicago's top bartenders. Vying for Best Bloody will be Megan Shank of Ska Brewing, Jamie Barnish of Villains, Lei Costello of The Violet Hour, and Becci Visconti West of Autre Monde. Rated by a team of judges, each drink will be deemed and categorized for best cocktail, prettiest cocktail, most creative garnish, and more, with overall winner going onto Autre Monde's brunch cocktail list. Tickets go for $10 to attend the event, which includes Bloody Mary samples and brunch bites. Get tickets here. 
 

Tailgating in the Sky at Epic

It's tailgating season, and Epic wants to help you become a better tailgater. Or at least a cooler one. The River North bar and restaurant is hosting a special "Tailgating in the SKY" event on October 3 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m., wherein chef Dan Marquis will teach guests how to make fall-friendly tailgating fare like ribs, chicken, and sausage. One cool facet is how attendees will learn about grilling produce successfully, as Marquis utilizes ingredients sourced from his family farm, Mill Road Farms. To drink, beverage director Michael Cristiani will be doling out seasonal cocktails and craft brews to pair with the dishes. And of course, football games will be aired via rooftop TVs. Tickets for this high-flying tailgate shindig are $41.44 and can be purchased here. 

WhirlyBall Hosts The WhirlyCruz Cup

In other fall fun news, WhirlyBall is hosting cast members from both Chicago PD and Chicago Fire for more friendly competition this weekend. Chicago Fire star Joe Minoso hosts the inaugural WhirlyCruz Cup tournament benefitting 100 Club of Chicago. It all begins with both casts facing off on the WhirlyBall court, followed by a tournament featuring sponsors and celebrity team captains. The event will also feature light bites, cocktails, and raffles, all taking place between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. on October 3. For $125, guests can join a team and get in on the action, or for $50 they can mix, mingle, spectate, and enjoy snacks. Tickets can be purchased here. 

- Matt Kirouac