Welcome to TheGreatShakeup.com!
Congratulations to our 2025 Cocktail Craftsman
The People's Bartender: Justin "J'Sleep" McClendon, from Houston, TX, embodies the perfect blend of creativity, confidence, and craft. Known for his innovative flavor combinations and charismatic storytelling behind the bar, Justin brings Southern flair and unmatched artistry to every pour. His passion for culture and connection makes him a true ambassador for what The Great Shakeup represents — excellence, authenticity, and community.
About Us
What is The Great Shakeup
The Great Shakeup, presented by Festival Noir, gives homage to Black Cocktail Craftsman and their talents. Black Cocktail Craftsman make up less than 6% of all mixologist in the US.
Today these creatives have limited opportunities to showcase their talents or be celebrated for them, until now. This competition is bigger than having a winner or a loser. The Great Shakeup creates space for Black Cocktail Craftsman in an industry where they are commonly overlooked.
Want to compete?
Register for one of our in-person qualifying events.
November 17 - Los Angeles
December 8 - New Orleans
December 15 - Atlanta
Online Submissions will open on November 1
Event Details
The Great Shakeup consist of a 3-round elimination cocktail craftsman competition running concurrently with a day party (cause why not) to include craft cocktails and local bites. Competition is be judged by 3 top industry leaders and resulting in one winner.
The Competition will take place on January 26, 2026 - New Orleans, LA - Sazerac House
Elevation: A Love Letter to NOLA
“If we’re not elevating our community, we’re just having a party.” Elevation is what takes The Great Shakeup to a new level. With three objectives: to Motivate, Educate, and Network. Allowing participants to walk away with more knowledge and skills, elevating them in their current and next endeavors. Elevation is for finalist and Black Bartender community at large. Creating a space to give back to city that has given so much to cocktail culture.
Stay tuned for more details...
