With plenty of facets and loads of fun, the Malaysian capital’s first such event, Kuala Lumpur Cocktail Week, will be kicking off on April 24th!

Kuala Lumpur is poised to host its inaugural Cocktail Week (KLCW) from April 24th to 30th, 2024, marking a vibrant celebration of mixology that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. This groundbreaking event is dedicated to showcasing the city’s burgeoning cocktail culture, offering a dynamic platform for local and international bartenders to exhibit their craft and for enthusiasts to explore the art of cocktail making.

A WEEK-LONG EXTRAVAGANZA ACROSS FIVE ZONES

KLCW will transform Kuala Lumpur into a bustling cocktail hub, dividing the city into five distinct zones, including Bangsar, Petaling Jaya/Taman Tun Dr. Ismail, Damansara Heights, Chinatown, and Kuala Lumpur City Centre. Each zone will host its own array of unique events culminating in the Festival Village spectacle at APW Bangsar on April 27th.

GLOBAL BAR TAKEOVERS AND LOCAL TALENTS

Highlighting the week are takeovers by some of Asia’s most acclaimed industry giants such as Alice Cheongdam (Korea), Atlas (Singapore), Bar Long Fong (China), Bar Leone (Hong Kong), Cosmo Pony (Indonesia), Employees Only (Singapore), GOD (Thailand), Nutmeg & Clove (Singapore), Last Word (Singapore), Room By Lekief (Taiwan), Sidecar (India), Teens of Thailand (Thailand), The Cocktail Club (Indonesia), and Tokyo Confidential (Japan).

This talent from some of Asia’s finest bars will take place alongside Kuala Lumpur’s finest establishments including Concubine, Frank’s Bar, Here & Now, Ikiya 2.0, Jann, Joloko, JungleBird, JWS Cabinet, Penrose, Rakh, Reka, Remedy, Skullduggery, Soma, Terumi, Three X Co, Trigona, and Vér Bar.

These collaborations promise to deliver an unparalleled drinking experience, showcasing cutting-edge mixology trends and techniques.

EDUCATIONAL SESSIONS AND MASTERCLASSES

In addition to vibrant cocktail bars, the festival will feature enlightening seminars and masterclasses, offering attendees a chance to engage with leading spirit brands and mixologists. These sessions aim to educate enthusiasts and deepen their appreciation for the art of cocktail crafting.

KLCW OPEN COCKTAIL COMPETITION

A cornerstone of the festival, the KLCW Open Cocktail Competition seeks to uncover Malaysia’s top bartending talent. Open to bartenders nationwide, the competition offers a total prize pool of RM6,000 and a bonus social media prize, providing a platform for professionals to showcase their skills and gain recognition.

COCKTAIL AND CULINARY PAIRINGS

KLCW will also offer exclusive cocktail pairing dinners at esteemed eateries, marrying exquisite cuisine with bespoke cocktails, elevating the cocktail experience to new heights.

FESTIVAL VILLAGE AT APW

The APW Festival Village, starting at 3pm on April 27th, will serve as the heart of the festivities, featuring a day filled with cocktail tastings, live music, cocktail competition finals, masterclasses, and interactive games. It’s a vibrant celebration of mixology set in a festive and engaging atmosphere.

COMMITTEE AND SPONSORSHIP

The KLCW committee, comprising individuals from various segments of the food and drink industry, is dedicated to ensuring the success of the festival. The festival is proud to be supported by an impressive roster of primary sponsors, including main sponsors Bombay Sapphire, Cocchi Vermouth, Dewar’s Whisky, Hendrick’s Gin, Michter’s Whiskey, Monkey Shoulder, Rémy Martin, Roku Gin, Tanqueray Gin and secondary sponsors Nikka, Campari, Cointreau, Deacon, Gajardo, Giffard, Malfy Gin, Planteray, and The Guard Bridge (Blended Malt Scotch Whisky).

These partnerships underscore the industry’s commitment to excellence and innovation. Perrier joins as the official water sponsor, ensuring guests stay refreshed, while APW offers the perfect location for the Festival Village venue sponsor, and FunNow facilitates seamless ticketing as bookings partner.

AN INVITATION TO IMMERSE IN MALAYSIAN MIXOLOGY

KLCW extends a warm invitation to locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in a week of discovery, enjoyment, and appreciation of cocktails and spirits. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, the festival promises an unforgettable experience tailored to every palate.

For more details, visit www.klcw.my.