Local bartenders and mixologists are dusting off their coupés and busting out the flutes in preparation for the return of the Set the Bar Cocktail Competition on Oct. 23 at Ed Smith Stadium. Hosted by the Sarasota-Manatee Originals, a collaborative of more than 60 locally owned restaurants, the competition is a spirited celebration of all things, well, spirits.

"Set the Bar was created as a playful platform to showcase the enormous talent of our local bar programs," Kim Davis, executive director of the Sarasota-Manatee Originals, said in a press release. "Our local bartenders are an integral part of today's service industry."

During the competition, bartenders' creations will be sampled and judged by an expert panel, who will rate each drink on flavor, appearance, imagination and presentation. Event attendees will also have access to these inventive libations, which will feature spirits from local and regional distilleries and light bites to help soak up the day's festivities.

This year, winners will receive a display plaque, a gift basket valued at more than $250, and bragging rights for being "the best."

Tickets for the event are currently on sale for $75 per person. Proceeds for the event will benefit local nonprofit Children First.

For more information about the Set the Bar Cocktail Competition please visit the Sarasota-Manatee Originals website or purchase tickets here.