The Edinburgh Bar Show is set to return with an expanded event in April following its success last year.
Founded by Iain McPherson (Panda & Sons), Jamie Faulds, and Gary Anderson (Edinburgh Cocktail Week) the event is designed to “educate, inspire, and connect the bar and drinks trade”.
Jamie said, “Edinburgh Bar Show 2024 was everything we hoped for – a real celebration of the industry that brought together bar peers, drinks professionals and amazing brands for a whirlwind few days of seminars, experiences, events and takeovers. The positive spirit of community, energy and good vibes will live long in the memory.”
Iain adds, “Last year was a brilliant success and it was amazing to see the Scottish bartending community all pulling together and seeing bartenders from all over the world in Edinburgh. I’m so excited for this year’s EBS, which will have a lot more seminars, events and activities.”
Gary said, “There was a real buzz at the end of EBS last year, with lots of positive feedback, so we’re excited to build on that for 2025 with the support of our brand partners. It’s great to welcome so many new brands onboard this year, helping us maintain EBS as a free-to-attend event, and develop a programme that we’re sure will inspire attendees and showcase the abundance of talent and drink producers we have here in Scotland.“
This year has a line-up of bar takeovers, expert-led seminars, brand experiences, and trade-focused events, including the Diageo Bar Academy, Johnnie Walker, Paragon, Disaronno and Fernet Branca, along with original supporters including William Grant & Sons, Bacardi Group, Pernod Ricard, Campari Group, and Moet Hennessy.
The highlights include The Johnnie Walker ‘Drop’, the Glenmorangie ‘Wonder Cinema’ experience, the Diageo Bar Academy with trainers La’Mel Clarke and Marc McParland partnering with guest speakers to host a series of seminars, mini masterclasses, and 121 careers counselling. It even has a seminar focusing on the mindful drinking opportunity and a breathwork workshop with Lillet and Camille Vidal.
The EBS Launch party with Hendrick’s and Monkey Shoulder is on Sunday 6th April with the official EBS Closing Party with Remy Cointreau – leading with The Botanist and Bruichladdich – on Wednesday 9th April.
Jamie adds, “Our challenge for this year has been to build on that success and further develop the event for a growing audience. We remain hugely grateful for the massive support from our brand partners, both returning and new to the event. This has allowed us to produce an expanded, 4-day format for Edinburgh Bar Show 2025, which importantly remains totally free to attend.”
The Voodoo Rooms will once again serve as the official EBS Hub, hosting daily seminars, tastings, and trade-focused activations. Meanwhile, a programme of bar takeovers, bespoke events, and brand experiences will take place at partner venues across the city.
All elements of EBS are free to attend again this year. The event takes place from Sunday 6 April to Sunday 9 April April, with an extended four-day programme. Those wishing to attend can register now for a free Trade Pass via the EBS website here.