Cocktail Lab: The Mad Scientist's Mixology Experience

Step inside the laboratory for our most interactive mixology class of the year. Put on your "lab coat" and become a cocktail scientist as we experiment with smoke, bubbles, foam, color-changing ingredients, and unexpected textures to create drinks that look like they belong in a science fiction movie—but taste absolutely incredible.

Bededero owner River Hawkins will share some of his favorite creative techniques and guide you through several cocktails that are a little outside the ordinary. You’ll get to see how different ingredients and methods work together, try a few things for yourself, and pick up some new ideas to take home.

Along the way, you’ll taste unique ingredients and spirits, learn a few bartender tricks, enjoy light snacks, and have some fun experimenting.

You’ll experience:

• Creative cocktails featuring unusual ingredients
• A look at liquid nitrogen and other modern techniques
• Hands-on cocktail experimentation
• Guided tastings of interesting spirits & ingredients
• Bartender tips and creative techniques from River Hawkins
• Light snacks + a little friendly competition

Come curious and ready to experiment!

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Event Details

When: Sunday, October 25th, 2026, 4-6pm

Where: The Bebedero, Charlottesville, VA 201 W Main St, Charlottesville, VA 22902

Parking is available at the Market Street Garage or nearby on-street parking.

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The space is on the ground floor, right off the pedestrian mall.​ If you have any questions about the space or accessibility needs, please reach out before registering. We're happy to provide additional details!​