The Old Town Merchants Association is pleased to announce the debut of Battle in the Bay: The Art of the Cocktail, a brand new signature event launching Friday, March 13, 2026, as the official kickoff to Souper Mudfest weekend. Designed as an elevated, cocktail-style experience, the event brings together art, spirits, and community in a sophisticated setting ahead of Saturday’s beloved festival. Thank you to our sponsors Thornhill Construction and Coastal Concrete Foundations.
The Old Town Merchants Association (OTMA) is a nonprofit that supports the businesses, artists, and cultural heritage of Old Town Bay St. Louis, fostering community engagement and the vibrant spirit that makes the town a beloved Gulf Coast destination.
Hosted at 200 North Beach, Battle in the Bay invites guests to sip, savor, and vote as top local bartenders compete head-to-head for the title of Battle of the Bay Champion. Each ticket includes curated cocktail tastings, access to exclusive door prize drawings, and an intimate preview of participating artists’ work before Souper Mudfest officially begins.
The evening also features a silent auction showcasing exclusive artist pieces, offering attendees a first look and opportunity to collect one-of-a-kind works while directly supporting local creatives. The experience blends cocktail craftsmanship with visual art, creating a refined yet welcoming atmosphere that celebrates Old Town’s creative spirit.
The event will include a Wine Pull cocktail party game, where guests can purchase a pull ticket for a surprise bottle of wine, with most bottles valued between $30 and $50 and select prizes reaching up to $70. Proceeds from the wine pull, along with ticket sales, directly benefit Souper Mudfest and OTMA’s year-round community programming.