Get Ready to Drink Your Way Through Thirst Boston (While Learning Things, Too)

Thirst Boston, which debuted last year, describes itself as "a gathering of bartenders, industry icons, and beverage connoisseurs from Boston and beyond." It's an education and a celebration, and it involves plenty of imbibing, of course. Tickets are now on sale; there are single-day and weekend passes that include seminars and more, and there are also individual tickets available for some events.

The seminar line-up includes discussions on cocktails and music (presented by musician/bartender/local legend Brother Cleve); understanding tequila flavors through aroma (The Hawthorne's manager Katie Emmerson presents this with Don Julio Ambassador Auriela Nossa); the history of the martini (by Tavern Road bar manager Ryan McGrale with Tanqueray National Ambassador Rachel Ford); and lots more. On the event side, get ready for debauchery galore at opening night gala The Thing, after-parties at area bars, Blender Bender at Chau Chow City, a New England craft showcase, and other happenings. There's even a Portland & Providence Pop-Up featuring bartenders from destinations like Eventide Oyster Co. and the Portland Hunt & Alpine Club.