Tropical Spirits Festival: a Celebration of Exotic Libations in a Historic Tropical Oasis
The historic Bonnet House Museum & Gardens will host the Tropical Spirits Festival on Sunday, March 9, from 11am to 4pm, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty of South Florida’s sub-tropical paradise.
A Celebration of Spirits and Cocktails
Set against the lush backdrop of one of Fort Lauderdale’s most treasured landmarks, the Tropical Spirits Festival will showcase an array of exotic cocktails crafted by the region’s top mixologists and bartenders, alongside premium spirits and island-inspired culinary delights.
The Historic Bonnet House Property
Originally built in 1920, the Bonnet House estate is a stunning testament to Florida’s pioneer era, offering a serene escape into a bygone age. Nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and Fort Lauderdale Beach, the property was gifted to artist Frederic Clay Bartlett and his wife, Helen Louise Birch, by her father, Hugh Taylor Birch.

Today, it stands as one of the last remaining examples of a native barrier island habitat, blending natural beauty with rich history.
A Reputation for Hospitality
“The Bartletts were known for their hospitality and even had their own specialty cocktail that they served their guests. This event not only supports the on-going preservation of Bonnet House but also honors the historic graciousness of the Bartlett family. The museum is honored to partner in presenting this event,” said Bonnet House CEO, Patrick Shavloske.
“The Bonnet House presents an alluring domain for a celebration of tropical spirits, a place where spirited cocktails with exotic ingredients have delighted visitors for a century in this lush natural environment,” said Tropical Spirits Festival producer Robin Burr. “It’s just amazing that Bonnet House is so well preserved, an enchanting echo of Florida’s gilded age.”

The Museum and Gardens
Accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Bonnet House Museum & Gardens continues to captivate visitors with its timeless allure.
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, March 9, 2025
Time: 11am to 4pm
Location: Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Tickets: $50 (includes admission, cocktail samples, and access to the grand terrace overlooking the lagoon)
For tickets and more information, visit TropicalSpiritsFestival.com or call 707-278-6736.
