If you came to visit Gadsbys Tavern in 1785, most likely you came for good conversation, fresh food, and of course…alcoholic beverages.  And of all the drinks to choose from, you would prefer the taverns special blend of Rum Punch, made of rum, water, citrus juices, sugar and spices. More than 200 years later, you are invited to experience — and taste — this unique beverage at the fourth annual Great Rum Punch Challenge on Saturday, March 29, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Enjoy seven different rum punch creations from local distilleries, restaurants and caterers and vote for your favorite, as Bittersweet of Alexandria defends its title.  The winner will be announced at the end of the evening.   Also enjoy food — both period and modern — as well as a silent auction full of great items.  Beverages will be provided for designated drivers by the Gadsbys Tavern Museum Society. Punch participants include veterans Bacardi Rum, Bittersweet, and Dogfish Heads Microdistillery, and new competitors Union Street Public House, The Chefs Table Caterers, Nickells & Scheffler, and the Conestoga Society, a living history group from Pennsylvania. Chart House Restaurant, Gadsbys Tavern Restaurant, Kingsbury Chocolates, La Tasca, Tempo Restaurant, and Avalon Caterers are donating a wide variety of food for the evening.

Tickets, which include admission (food and drink all evening), are $50 per person, or $100, which include admission and a special patron bag.  Proceeds from the event will fund the Museums preservation efforts related to the City Tavern and Hotels Ice Well, located at the corner of Cameron and North Royal streets.  Reservations are required, so for more information or to make reservations, please call 703.838.4242 or visit www.gadsbystavern.org.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Gadsbys Tavern was the center of social and political life in Alexandria and the new Federal City of Washington.  The tavern served as the premier gathering place for residents — including George Washington — and visitors to eat, drink, learn, and influence history. Gadsbys Tavern Museum is located at 134 North Royal Street in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.