International Bartenders Association (IBA)
The International Bartenders Association (IBA) is a global network connecting professional bartenders across more than 60 countries, fostering excellence, education, and international camaraderie within the hospitality industry.
The United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG) has proudly been a member of the IBA since 1961, serving as the official U.S. delegate to this worldwide community. Through the IBA, bartenders gain access to global competitions, cultural exchange, and opportunities to represent their craft on the world stage.
International Competition Highlights
2025 Lotus Prestige Cup — Macau
From December 8–11, Team USBG competitors Felipe Castro (Classic) and Kristof Vandenabeele (Flair) represented the United States at the Lotus Prestige Cup, an international Baijiu cocktail competition held in Macau.
Felipe Castro was named the 2025 Lotus Prestige Classic Cup Champion, earning top honors among elite bartenders from around the world.
→ Read the full competition recap on the blog
Upcoming IBA Events
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Golden Cup — Taiwan
December 16–20
Philip Trinh, Team USBG Classic Competitor -
IBA Queens of Bartending — Havana
March 7–10
Finalists TBA -
Mattoni Cup — Karlovy Vary
May 1–3
Finalists TBA -
Pan-American Cocktail Championship
Date & location TBA
Team USBG TBA -
World Cocktail Championship — Macau
October 19–24
Team USBG TBA
These events showcase the highest levels of bartending skill, creativity, and professionalism—bringing together competitors, judges, and industry leaders from across the globe.
Get Involved with Team USBG
The IBA competition pathway begins here in the United States through the United States Cocktail Competition (USCC)—the national program that identifies and prepares bartenders to represent Team USBG internationally.
Whether interested in competing, supporting Team USBG, or following the journey to the global stage, there are many ways to get involved.