The Hitchcock Center’s second annual culinary and cocktail throw-down returns! A benefit for environmental education, top local chefs and mixologists present an evening of botanically inspired appetizers and cocktails. Guests will delight in the imaginative creations at 8 stations, and cast their vote for their favorite cocktail. The top three bartenders will take to the event stage for a live mix-off challenge using a secret local mystery ingredient. Hosted by Joan Holliday, a panel of judges will crown the winner, while turntable DJ Just Joan sets the mood for this energetic and friendly competition.

With River Valley Co-Op as the Presenting Sponsor, the event raises funds and awareness for the Hitchcock Center’s year-round innovative environmental education programs. People have been exploring the outdoors with the Hitchcock Center for 55 years. Serving over 8,200 children and adults from across our region annually,  the Hitchcock Center is committed to programming for our whole community that deepens our emotional bonds with the natural world and empowers us to take action for a more sustainable future.

The Hitchcock Center recently took a leap forward toward having an even bigger regional impact – building a new net-zero energy and net-zero water Center with non-toxic and responsibly sourced materials, designed to meet the world’s highest standard in sustainable design, the Living Building Challenge (LBC). This leading-edge new facility is open and free to all, and demonstrates a beautiful and inspirational example of how we can build in greater harmony with the environment.

All 8 stations’ appetizers and cocktails are included in the sliding scale ticket price, which starts at $55. See the list of participating restaurants and purchase tickets at hitchcockcenter.org/botanicals.

The event venue, Amherst College’s Powerhouse, is itself a destination: an historic steam plant now brilliantly transformed — it features sleek industrial design elements, state-of-the-art lighting, an intimate mezzanine lounge, and a large glass bi-fold door opening out to a garden patio. There will also be a robust silent auction, featuring a 4-pack of Red Sox tickets and dozens of other items: tickets to local events, outdoor adventures for all ages, unique artwork, and culinary delights.