A “Mule” – a spicy ginger beer and a drink often made with vodka is making a grand event debut in Eagle River this spring. The first ever  Mules Up North will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, March 12 in Chef Rene’s at Eagle River Inn & Resort. Tickets are on sale now!

Bartenders from Eagle River area bars and restaurants will mix two different types of Mules in this new mix-drink competition. The 3-hour event includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and live entertainment throughout the evening. Event patrons will sample drinks and vote on their favorite original Mule and a Mule with a Kick.

Perhaps the perfect lime squeeze will tip the scales for the winning bartender. Maybe a different alcohol will win the competition –  Mule anyone? Bartenders will be using rye vodka, bourbon whisky, cherry vodka and gin, among other drink alternatives. You might even taste the first ever Eagle River Mule!

Buck cocktails are made with a ginger ale or ginger beer and mixed with a citrus juice. The Buck was named after a shot of whisky was added to the previously non-alcoholic drink Horse’s Neck, which was lemon juice in ginger ale. The Mule, which is essentially a Vodka Buck, is served in a copper cup. Participants will enjoy their Mules in sample cups throughout the evening and will take home with them a souvenir copper mug.

Tickets can be purchased online only for $85. Patrons must be at least 21 years old.  Tickets will not be available at the door, so plan accordingly.

And for anyone who needs a place to crash afterwards, host site Eagle River Inn & Resort has rooms ranging from dream suites to deluxe suites with kitchenette units. Other overnight options can be found online using the lodging finder.

You won’t want to miss the first ever Mules Up North!