Sorry if this news comes too little, too late, but potential "hip-to-sippers" should know that tickets for The Drinks Show, coming this weekend to the Distillery district, are all sold out. My question is...why? At $20 a pop, with only two measly sample tickets included, I'm wondering what all the fuss is about.

The main perks seem to be the Iron Bar Chef Competition (which would actually be quite an impressive spectacle since these pro-bartenders are incredible to watch), as well as the showcasing of spirits brand new to Canada. But claims of an "opulent lounge," "open-air barbeque" and "sexy DJs" leave me cold. A journey of "taste and culture" is promised, but an overwhelming lack of details on the website and elsewhere suggest that the journey's going to be pretty brief.

The party planners did get one thing right, though: the Distillery District couldn't be a better place to mix things up (literally). If you haven't taken the time to explore this area, bump it up on your to-do list. This unique little nook of a neighborhood showcases Toronto's fascinating (and liquor-laden) history by maintaining the historic buildings and cobblestone streets, while hosting fabulous furniture, clothing, and jewellry stores, art galleries, and, you guessed it, a nice selection of places to eat and drink. (For those of you who prefer to stay on the sober side, check out Balzac's for awesome coffee and a great place to chat.)

Meanwhile, if you're looking for a chance to booze things up this weekend while still getting your well-deserved fill of "taste and culture," why not show your Pride: join the Church street celebrations instead! Head, for example, to Babylon Cafe (553 Church St.) where martinis are an art form.

Alternatively, just grab some good company and see where the night takes you. After all, even when it comes to cocktails, it's still about the journey, not the destination.