The Science of Cocktails is Back and Boozier Than Ever

There are few things I miss about being a kid as much as the frequency of basic science fair experiments. Vinegar and baking soda volcano? Sign me up. Dove bar in the microwave? Absolutely flabbergasting. Anything involving dry ice? Yes please.

Apparently I’m not alone in my fascination with all things scientific because Science World’s fifth annual event, the Science of Cocktails, will return on February 6, and it is promising to be bigger than ever with fundraising estimates at nearly $300,000.

And really, what could be better than an event that liquors you up and then shows you cool science things? Plus there’s food from some of the top chefs in Vancouver (like Curtis Luk of Cibo Trattoria and Alvin Pillay of Donnely Group). That’s the peak of good living if you ask me.

Vancouver’s top bartenders will whip up specially-crafted creations at over 30 stations that show off their scientific prowess. Think beeswax infused whiskey and Melon Ball Martinis made before your eyes using the process of reverse spherification.

The drinks are tasty and the experiments are cool to watch—so it’s a fun event, even if your eyes glaze over at the mere mention of the periodic table. And for those who are more scientifically minded, the bartenders are all too happy to explain the molecular makeup of their mixology.

The Science World team will also be there to demonstrate some thrilling scientific elements including 3-foot lycopodium fireballs and dry ice-filled soap bubbles.

“There’s lots of neat new things coming in,” said Science World’s Director of Performance and Fun Times Brian Anderson. “Every year it’s just building on the best of the best of the best to find more foods and more exotic cocktail concepts.”

The event will be hosted by comedian Peter Carlone of Peter n’ Chris sketch troupe, and local drag celebrity Conni Smudge.

Throughout the night, there will also be a silent auction, a bartending competition (this year’s theme is sustainability) and an award for the best dish.

Janet Wood, CEO of Science World, says this year they’re anticipated to have raised over $1 million since the event’s inception in 2015.

All proceeds go to the Science World’s Class Field Trip Bursary program – the program has benefited over 23,000 kids – so your drunken revelry is for a good cause. There are a limited number of general admission tickets remaining but plenty of VIP tickets (which include early admission and a VIP lounge amongst other things).

When: Thursday February 6, 2020 8:00 p.m. to midnight
Where: Telus Science World 1455 Quebec Street
Cost: General Admission – $165 | VIP – $289
More Info: scienceworld.ca

Credit: Photo by Megan McLellan