Colombo, Sri Lanka – The 30th edition of the National Bartenders Competition, Sri Lanka’s premier bartending event, has reached its most exciting phase. With all six regional rounds now completed, the competition has selected 40 outstanding semi-finalists who gathered at Marino Beach Colombo on June 3rd for a thrilling semifinal showdown, an unforgettable evening of showmanship, precision, and artistry.
Organized by the Sri Lanka Hospitality Graduates Association (SLHGA) in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Institute of Tourism and Hotel Management (SLITHM), and powered for the third consecutive year by International Distillers Ltd (IDL), the competition continues to uplift and celebrate the evolving spirit of Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector.
From the Cultural Triangle to Colombo, the regional rounds showcased exceptional flair and technique across both the Classic and Flair categories. At the semifinals, the bar was raised even higher. After a gripping display of creativity, confidence, and professional finesse, five finalists from each category were selected to advance to the Grand Finale, scheduled for June 18th at Cinnamon Grand Colombo.
In the lead-up to the semifinals, IDL and SLHGA organized a special bartender masterclass featuring both local and international industry experts. The session offered valuable insights, practical skills, and exposure to global trends, equipping participants with the tools to elevate their craft and broaden their industry knowledge. Among the highlights was a session by Dom Fernando, Founder of Paradise Soho in the UK, who shared his expertise and passion, offering the semi-finalists a unique perspective shaped by global experiences and deep Sri Lankan roots.
Strong Female Presence in Classic Category as NBC 2025 Heads to the Finale
This year’s competition also marked a significant milestone in gender representation. With Approximately 25% of preliminary participants being women, the highest in the competition’s 30-year history, the 2025 edition signals a positive shift toward inclusivity. Notably, 4 out of the 5 finalists in the Classic category are female, reflecting the growing presence and potential of women in Sri Lanka’s hospitality sector.
To further enrich the competition experience, IDL introduced two dynamic categories since it began powering the event in 2023: the IDL Challenge Trophy, where 4th and 5th place regional winners compete to showcase their creativity and originality, and the Most Popular Bartender – Online, which highlights contestants’ public appeal through social media engagement. All performances have been recorded and uploaded to the official National Bartenders Competition Facebook page, allowing the public to watch, support, and engage.
International Distillers Ltd’s commitment to the competition goes beyond partnership.
As the market leader in the locally manufactured foreign liquor (LMFL) industry, IDL has remained dedicated to championing local spirits, nurturing emerging talent, and driving progress within Sri Lanka’s hospitality landscape. Their continued involvement reflects a long-term vision to build a more vibrant, skilled, and competitive bartending community, one that is aligned with the needs of a growing tourism market.
The highly anticipated Grand Finale on June 18th will bring together the best of Sri Lanka’s bartending talent. A panel of renowned local and international judges will evaluate the finalists, with the entire process audited by Ernst & Young to ensure transparency and integrity. The night promises to be the ultimate celebration of skill, creativity, and passion, and a powerful showcase of the future of Sri Lanka’s bartending industry.
