World-Renowned Mixologist to Shake Up the Blended Festival

I’m not gonna lie to you: When I looked at the music lineup for the Blended Festival coming up this weekend, Aug. 13-14, at First Horizon Park, I really felt my age. I recognize Lil Jon, but I have to admit that I’d need to consult my colleagues over at Nashville Cream to find out who any of the other performers are. Admittedly that’s a me problem since I pretty much only listen to talk radio and WWOZ over the internet anymore, so I’m sure many of you are excited about the prospect of seeing Kaskade, Matt Stell, Bryce Vine and Blanco Brown over the course of the two-day event.

However, I did recognize the name of one other “performer” listed on the event website. Charles Joly is a bit of a legend in the world of mixology and the Co-Founder of Crafthouse Cocktails. The former beverage director at Chicago’s The Aviary bar and a James Beard Award winner, Joly also serves as the official mixologist for the Oscars and the Emmys. (So I guess we can blame him for this.)

He also holds the distinction of being the only American to ever win the iconic Diageo World Class Bartender of the Year, a competition that depends on story-telling ability as well as talent behind the stick. So you know the chance to be graced with his brand of bartending hospitality is kind of a big deal. At least as big as listening to Slim McGraw. (Who?)

Joly will appear at the festival on Friday, making Friday the 13th your lucky day if you have access to the VIP Tent. He’ll also be doing a demo with Jaja Tequila on the Culinary Stage in left field. You can also visit the wine tent with hundreds of tasting options plus a full bar. For a first-time festival in Nashville, Blended seems like it's put together a pretty cool food and drink fest to go along with the music. Buy your tickets in advance at the event website.