This month’s cocktailin’ experience took some planning! We’ve been intrigued by the much-buzzed-about euphoria – the food, wine and music-focused festival – taking place THIS WEEKEND (and each September) here in our fair city! The euphoria team rocks and gave us the chance to attend a couple of “teaser” events to see what all the buzz is about so that we could share it with you. We have a new event inked in on our September calendars…and you will too!
Tapas & Tinis…
We had the pleasure of attending Euphoria’s “Tapas & Tinis” event back in July and were totally impressed! We put on our dancin’ shoes and headed over to Zen on Main Street for some sipping, nibbling, and schmoozing. Chef Tony Schmidt of Performance Food Service supplied the delicious “through the decades” tapas (bite-sized Tuna Noodle Casserole and Chicken a la King for the 50’s, Sloppy Joes and Steak Ums for the 80’s) while Titos Vodka and Larceny Bourbon supplied the super-creative beverages. We tried ‘em all…and then some!
Not Your Childhood Lemonade…
Forget summer camp and the old sidewalk lemonade stand! This refresher was just as billed…not your childhood lemonade at all! Its balanced, citrus flavor with a kick of Tito’s added a pep to our step, encouraging us to get on the dance floor and shake our jelly jars to the incredible live music!
The Cosmopolitan…
This pretty, pink creation in a martini glass added elegance and delight to our experience. Slightly tart and slightly sweet, this upscale cocktail was a winner in our book! A perfect cocktail to enjoy while perusing all that is available at Euphoria. And there’s a lot! Just sayin…
The Kamikaze…
This was not the old college kamikaze! A much more refined version is what we savored as we enjoyed the party, the food and the fun – the very definition of Euphoria! We even witnessed another guest get a bit creative by requesting a combination of the Kamikaze and the Cosmopolitan, creating an amazing “Cosmokaze” – brilliant! Euphoria encourages creativity and imagination – so get in touch with your creative side at any or all of these events.
The Old-Fashioned…
Brown liquor is never a bad thing, and this take on the historic beverage did not disappoint. If you’ve never tried one, Euphoria might be the time to take a chance and notice how your taste buds will burst with delight. Trying something new and different is the name of the game. You’ll be surprised at how much fun it can be to satisfy your adventurous side – another reason to take advantage of all that Euphoria has to offer. Don’t be timid – just go for it!
doing good…
Euphoria’s mission is to promote tourism in Greenville by creating a destination event for food, wine, and music lovers, but they understand the importance of giving back. Heartwarming, right?! Since its beginning in 2006, proceeds from Euphoria have been distributed in the form of direct grants to over 40 Upstate charities through its non-profit organization, Local Boys Do Good (LBDG). These grants focus on sustenance for those in need (food that sustains life or health), music or performing arts education, or programs that aid children. Go to euphoriagreenville.com to check out the most recent deserving recipients and for more information on the grant application process for upcoming years.
don’t miss out…
This year’s festival takes place beginning this Thursday, September 15th and lasts through Sunday, the 18th – and as of press-time, there were still a FEW (very few) spots available for some of the more than 40 mouthwatering events. Named one of the “tastiest festivals in the Southeast”, Euphoria draws folks from far and wide to experience “perfectly seasoned with a pinch of southern charm” Greenville – and all of the euphoric events that bring them back year after year.
Eat. Sip. Listen. You won’t regret it!!
Euphoria . www.euphoriagreenville.com
By Alex Burgamy and Angi Einstein – www.therarebelle.com
the RARE belle 