Get out on the town and enjoy an array of mixed drinks at the 7th Annual Cocktails for a Cause on Wednesday, Sept. 21. Nine mixologists from South Shore will compete for the “Best Cocktail” and “Most Congenial Bartender” awards, giving them ultimate bragging rights within the community.

Bartenders will create their own concoctions with Tahoe Blue Vodka, and the winning drink — selected by a celebrity judging panel — will be featured at Barton Foundation’s 25th Annual Gala in December.

“That’s a big thing. It’s a black tie event that welcomes about 400 people. It’s huge kudos to that bartender,” event coordinator Marty Green said.

Barton Foundation hosts the annual event, which this year will benefit Barton Health’s Cancer Wellness Program. The program is undergoing an expansion that will provide cancer patients supportive services including massage, exercise, psychotherapy and nutrition classes.

The cocktail contest competitors are faced with the challenge of incorporating Barton Foundation’s cause into their mixed drink.

“We have asked mixologists to choose a color from ribbons of a certain cancer or caregiver ribbon color and have their cocktail be that color. A lot of these bartenders have personal stories of why they’re making that particular cocktail this year.

By incorporating the color in the drink they can talk a little bit about it,” Green said.

This year marks the return of the celebrity judging panel for “Best Cocktail.” In a blind tasting, five local celebrities will vote for the best mixed drink at the event. The public will be able to cast their votes for best bartender.

In addition to drinks, heavy appetizers, live music and a raffle are also included at the event, which costs $40 to attend. If tickets are still available on the day of the event, they will be sold for $45. Attendees must be at least 21 years old.

All funds raised go straight to the Barton Health Cancer Wellness Program.

“We want people to come out and help us embrace the cause and enjoy the evening,” Green said.

Cocktails for a Cause is held from 5:30-8 p.m. at Riva Grill on Wednesday, Sept. 21. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.bartonhealth.org/cocktail or call 530-543-5784.