The inaugural edition of Quito Cocktail Week will take place in Ecuador’s capital this July, spearheaded by bartender, entrepreneur and educator Edwin Lobo, founder of Andes Bar Academy and Código 86 Speakeasy.

From 5-11 July,  the initiative aims to strengthen Ecuador’s professional hospitality community and contribute toward developing the identity of Ecuadorian cocktail culture.

“More than just an event, we aim to build a platform that drives the industry’s growth,” said Edwin Lobo, co-founder of Quito Cocktail Week. “We want to demonstrate that it is possible to build solid projects that raise hospitality standards in Ecuador.”

The programme begins on 5 July with Andes Shakers, a nationwide competition bringing together bartenders from different regions of Ecuador to showcase their creativity, technical skills and innovation before a panel of industry experts. 

The week’s main event will be the Quito Cocktail Week Congress, taking place from 6- 8 July at Universidad San Francisco de Quito. 

Over three days, leading Ecuadorian and international professionals will host lectures, panel discussions and networking opportunities focused on hospitality, business management, sustainability, entrepreneurship, creativity and innovation.

In addition to its educational programming, Quito Cocktail Week will host a series of experiences across the city, highlighting bars, restaurants, producers and entrepreneurs.