We've been excited about Tales of the Cocktail for months now, but our enthusiasm has only increased now that the week of all things liquor is finally upon us. From seminars on bitters and cocktail history to "spirited" dinners where some of New Orleans' finest restaurants create tasting menus to pair with memorable cocktails, the number of events on the schedule for this festival, which runs through Sunday, is literally staggering.

If you haven't purchased tickets to any of the tastings or competitions yet, it's not too late. Check out the Tales of the Cocktail website and blog to find the event that's most appealing to you. We'll be back later in the week with reports from Tales of the Cocktail, but in the meantime, be sure to get to one of the free tastings that are being held daily.