The Drink for Solidarity cocktail competition returns to Zerai’s Intl Bar from 6-9 p.m. on Feb. 24, bringing together Tucson’s beverage community for a Lunar New Year celebration. Organizers will host the event at 2725 E. Broadway Blvd. The evening supports the Chinese Chorizo Project and highlights local collaboration.
Guests can sample eight original cocktails and mocktails crafted with Chinese Chorizo paste. Bartenders will incorporate local ingredients and compete for judges’ honors and a People’s Choice Award. Organizers suggest a $10 donation for tastings. The event also will feature food vendors and community partners.
Tucson’s Drink for Solidarity cocktail competition spotlights local talent
Zerai’s Intl Bar will partner with the Chinese Chorizo Project and Ray Ray’s Sonoran Tea. The event also will feature products from Savaya Coffee, Seven Cups Fine Chinese Tea, Suncliffe Gin, Whiskey Del Bac, Workhorse Rye, and Parch.
This year’s theme celebrates Lunar New Year and the Year of the Fire Horse. Organizers describe 2026 as a year fueled by inner fire and forward momentum. They aim to spark community, leadership and creativity through collaboration.
Local judges will evaluate each entry. Judges include Da’Lice Shepard of Art State AZ, Tucson Foodie’s Jackie Tran and last year’s People’s Choice winner Raymond Hammond.
Meet the competing drink makers
Eight Tucson drink makers will compete in the 2026 Drink for Solidarity cocktail competition. Each competitor will create an innovative cocktail inspired by the Chinese Chorizo Project’s mission.
Competitors include:
- Kei Ann Mandanas of Ate Kei’s Filipino Treats
- Olivia Reardon of La Rosa
- Vinny Magaña of Ugly But Honest Pizzeria
- Manny Peña of The Royal Room
- Michelle of Playground Bar & Lounge
- Tiffany Holden of Bar Juniper
- Vero of Zerai’s Intl Bar
- Jared Schwartz of Penelope Pizza
Food, cocktails and community in Midtown Tucson
In addition to cocktails, guests can enjoy Chinese Chorizo Ethiopian tacos and knishes from Kneller’s Delicatessen.
Organizers encourage guests to celebrate Lunar New Year while supporting Tucson’s independent food and beverage scene. The event offers a chance to connect with local makers and discover new flavors.
Drink for Solidarity takes place at Zerai’s Intl Bar, 2725 E. Broadway Blvd. For more details, keep up with Chinese Chorizo Project on Instagram.
