Bar Convent Brooklyn returns with expanded programming

Bar Convent Brooklyn (BCB Brooklyn) returns to Industry City on June 10-11, 2025, promising its most ambitious show to date.

With thousands of beverage industry professionals expected to attend, the event will once again serve as a global hub for innovation, education and meaningful connection.

New for 2025, BCB introduces several additions to strengthen engagement and elevate the attendee experience. On Monday June 9, exhibitor-only sessions will offer specialised insights into the rapidly growing no and low-alcohol sector. Topics include ‘Beyond the Buzz: Best Practices for Building a Successful Non-Alcoholic Brand’ and ‘New Category, New Rules: Legal Frameworks for the Future of Non-Alc Spirits.’

Among this year’s highly anticipated sessions, industry leaders Leo Robitschek, Sharelle Klaus, Monica Berg, Nick Strangeway and Sophie Decobecq will lead a candid panel on launching a brand without distillery funding or prior experience.

Inside the VIP Lounge, the debut of the Crafted Conversations series will bring fireside-style chats that explore wellness, inclusivity and cultural shifts in hospitality. Highlights include an introduction to CHOW (Culinary Hospitality Outreach and Wellness), which offers practical mental health tools for industry professionals, and a conversation with Bravo’s Carl Radke, co-founder of Soft Bar, Brooklyn’s pioneering non-alcoholic bar and café focused on advancing mindful drinking and zero-proof cocktails.

The Liquid Lounge stages return with immersive sessions centred on spirits, storytelling and culture. Expect deep dives into Venezuelan hospitality, Caribbean bitter profiles, bar revival strategies and the power of iconic ingredients. One of this year’s most essential additions is ‘86 Harassment Presents: Introductory De-escalation Tools for Safer Hospitality Spaces,’ a Women of the Vine and Spirits initiative led by Safe Bars.

At the Park Street University stage, attendees will find business-driven content designed to equip brand builders, marketers and entrepreneurs with the tools they need to succeed. Programming will include sessions on crafting compelling brand stories, decoding consumer behaviour, optimising market entry strategies and achieving sustainable financial growth.

Outside in Courtyard 7/8, the energy continues from 2:30 to 4:00 pm each day with a bold tasting experience and photo-friendly atmosphere. The Courtyard Bar will also feature brand takeovers throughout the show, including a Wednesday appearance by Jack Sotti, Brand Advocacy Director at Renais Spirits. Tuesday will spotlight the ‘Sip With PRIDE Meet-Up,’ a dedicated gathering for LGBTQIA+ professionals, queer bar workers and allies to connect, share stories and build community.

Adding to the courtyard excitement, Ja Rule, rapper, entrepreneur and co-founder of Amber & Opal Honey Botanical Whiskey, will host live pours and tastings at the Courtyard Bar at 1:00 pm on both days, followed by an exclusive VIP Lounge appearance on Tuesday afternoon for select badge holders. The Original Pickle Shot will take centre stage both days from 2:30 to 4:00 pm, serving bold flavour and playful vibes with a cheeky tasting experience and plenty of photo opportunities.

Creating space for intentional connection remains central to the BCB Brooklyn experience. First-time guests are encouraged to attend the New Attendee Meet-Up at 4:00 pm on Tuesday in Courtyard 5/6. This laid-back kickoff is designed to break the ice and help newcomers navigate the show. Immediately afterward, Cirque de BCB Brooklyn transforms the courtyard into a carnival-style celebration from 5:00 to 7:00 pm, featuring balloon artists, tarot readers, face painting, a magician and more.

As the day winds down, the celebration continues after hours. On Tuesday evening, June 10, the official Opening Night Party, presented by William Grant & Sons, will take place at Brooklyn Bowl. Guest bartenders from standout venues such as Highball Phoenix, Jolene Sound Room Miami, Apotheke NoMad NYC, The Corner Store NYC, Madame George NYC, Dear Strangers NYC, El Camino NYC and Too Soon Portland will bring creative energy to the bar for one unforgettable night.

The 2025 show will also host the first-ever Brand Accelerator Pitch Competition, presented by Women of the Vine and Spirits and Diverse Powered Brands. Finalists will present their pitches live on June 11, in Liquid Lounge A, competing for a prize package including services from Double Forte, Greenspoon Marder, MHW and more.

Running both days at Booth 7A-118, Authors Alley, presented by Lofty Pigeon Books, offers a space for reflection and conversation with leading voices in the industry. Attendees can meet authors, join signings and explore new releases on cocktail culture, hospitality leadership and personal narratives from across the beverage world.

Tickets for BCB Brooklyn 2025 are now available. To register and explore the full schedule, visit www.barconventbrooklyn.com or follow @barconventbrooklyn on Instagram.