Rochester Cocktail Revival Toasts Its 13th Year

From June 1-7, the Rochester Cocktail Revival (RCR) will return for its thirteenth annual celebration. RCR is the only weeklong and longest-running festival of its kind in New York State, made possible by more than 30 Rochester bars and cultural venues that host over 70 events across downtown Rochester within seven days. 

Rochester boasts an avid scene of cocktail bars and top-tier bartending talent, the Rochester Cocktail Revival aims to highlight local beverage culture through education and celebration, while contributing to the Rochester economy and showcasing the camaraderie between the city’s bars and cocktail enthusiasts. Since its inception, RCR has grown to include pop-up events throughout the year, including a golf tournament in September and a masquerade in October. Over the years, the events have drawn more than 19,000 attendees and hosted notable cocktail personalities, including David Wondrich, Dale DeGroff, Lynn House, Pamela Wiznitzer, Lynnette Marrero, Steven Soderbergh, Noah Rothbaum, and Robert Simonson.

“When more than 30 cocktail bars step up for charity and raise a glass to hospitality culture, you know Rochester has something special on its hands,” says RCR founder and director Chuck Cerankosky. “Let people say what they will about the state of the spirits industry or drinking trends—between the impassioned, talented group of individuals behind world-class bars here, menus displaying creative genius, and the vibe and atmosphere of our nightlife scene, there’s never been a better time to go out, get out—be there!—for a drink.”

A portion of all proceeds benefits Cancer Support Community at Gilda’s Club Rochester, which offers free support to men, women, teens, and children affected by cancer. Since 2014, RCR has netted more than $310,000 for CSC. Tickets are currently on sale here, with more events being added daily. 

Featured Events of the 2026 Rochester Cocktail Revival

“BAR” Film Screening + RCR Pregame A 2025 documentary that follows five bartenders through an intensive spirits competition in NYC. The Little Theatre | Sun., May 31

RCR Launchpad Party An event that showcases new-to-Rochester spirit brands in bartender-built creations alongside a live string band. Genesee Valley Club | Mon., June 1

Margarita Seminar + Happy Hour With Caroline Pardilla, Margarita Time author and Imbibe digital editor, and Max Reis, beverage director of 2026 North America’s 50 Best Bars Mírate and Daisy in Los Angeles. Martine | Tues., June 2

Delphinium Garden Party Featuring botanical cocktails, live music, and a VIP-level guided exhibit tour. George Eastman Museum | Wed., June 3

Super Sounds The champion musical event of RCR featuring Cut Me Up Genny + other special guests. Anthology | Thurs., June 4

Young Lioness of the West: An Immersive Cocktail Experience A whimsical narrative about Rochester circa 1913, told through the lens (and pen) of Frank Gannett and feat. Cat + The Coyote. Rochester Public Market | Fri., June 5

The Spirit Tasting Spectacular Showcasing 30+ spirit brands including New York State Distillers. The Metropolitan | Sat., June 6

True Fiction: Making Cocktail History Comicable A seminar with award-winning spirits writer David Wondrich focusing on his newest book, The Comic Book History of the Cocktail. Good Luck | Sat., June 6

The Bar Room Battle Royale The climactic festival finale where local bartenders go shaker-to-shaker. Radio Social | Sun., June 7