I can't imagine a better, and more Wisconsin, way to celebrate the final weeks of summer than a drink – probably a few. And perfect timing: You'll be able to find a lot of drinks at the second attempt at the second annual Bloody Mary Festival, returning to Deer District on Saturday, Aug. 21. 

The brunch-time beverage favorite had its inaugural Milwaukee celebration in the outdoor plaza in front of Fiserv Forum in 2019, but unfortunately the second round scheduled for last summer was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But now it's back in the home of the chaser – one of only a handful of cities nationwide to host the event. 

“The Bloody Mary Festival-Wisconsin had a tremendous inaugural event in 2019, attracting thousands of people to Deer District,” said Michael Belot, Senior Vice President of Bucks Ventures and Development, in a release. “We look forward to once again hosting The Bloody Mary Festival-Wisconsin to celebrate the innovative Bloody Marys made by Wisconsin’s diverse restaurants and to offer our guests another fun and unique event in Deer District.”

Starting at 10:30 a.m., the Bloody Mary Festival will pour plentiful amounts of the hangover-fighting favorite in all sorts of styles – from traditional Bloodys to one-of-a-kind concoctions – and all delicious, created from local bars, restaurants and mixes. Throughout the one-stop Bloody Mary bar hop, a panel of industry experts will taste and crown the "Best Bloody Mary in Wisconsin" at the end of the revelry – but you'll get your say too as guests will also thirst-quenchingly peruse and place their vote for the People's Choice Award.

And, to help soak up all the tasty cocktails, the festival will also feature local restaurants and businesses selling food and snacks along with other beverages, crafts and more. 

“We knew how popular Bloody Marys were in Wisconsin, but the response to this event has been overwhelming,” said event organizer Evan Weiss, in the release. “People are ready to get back out again and have fun. We’re closely monitoring the pandemic and we’ll follow all safety protocols as required by the CDC, state, and local officials.”

To whet your appetite, here's a thirsty trip around the 2019 edition:

Tickets for the Bloody Mary Festival – including access to all participating Bloodys – are on sale now at the event's website, with general admission costing $49.50 and VIP access (featuring earlier access to the festival) costing $60.50. General admission sessions run from either 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or 3:45 p.m. to 6 p.m., while VIP sessions run from either 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. or 3 to 6 p.m.

For more information, updates and ticket availability, visit the Bloody Mary Festival's website – and get your taste buds and liver ready.