United Way's 'Celebrity Bartender Battle' set for Nov. 19 at Bay Street Yard

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Oct. 21, 2025 - PRLog -- Local "celebrities" will mix it up Nov. 19 at the second annual Celebrity Bartender Battle, a family-friendly competition that raises money for United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades. This year's event will take place again at Bay Street Yard in Fort Myers.

The celebrity mixologists, made up of community officials and local business leaders, will be supporting the "United is the Way" fundraising campaign under the leadership of co-chairs Carolyn Rogers (Team Princess Leia) and Will Prather (Team Han Solo). The "bartenders" include Fort Myers Mayor Kevin Anderson, Lee County Commissioner David Mulicka, Marc Collins, Melissa Vogt, Maureen Green-Prather, Mike Cannington, Stephanie Davis and more.

Team Princess Leia and Team Han Solo will shake and stir their way through the evening on the first floor, serving drinks, engaging with guests and competing against each other to see which team the force is with and can ultimately raise the most money.

Additionally, a third team will join the action this year, as Team Jedi Council, consisting of members of last year's Team Hans and Team Franz, will be offering beverages throughout the evening on the second floor. That's also where attendees will find a special signature cocktail created just for this year's event.

All tips and 20% of proceeds from the entire night will go to United Way for its programs that support education, financial stability, food insecurity, and health initiatives within the community. Last year's inaugural event raised nearly $40,000.

Music from Tom Petty tribute band Learning to Fly will entertain guests throughout the evening as emcee Greg Parker provides running commentary and highlights throughout the competition.

"We had such an amazing time last year, and all to benefit our partner agencies," said Jeannine Joy, president and CEO of United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades, "that it only makes sense to do it again this year. We're looking forward to another fun and exciting evening with even more dollars raised for the communities we serve. We appreciate Bay Street Yard for their generosity in hosting again."

The Celebrity Bartender Battle takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at Bay Street Yard, 2136 Bay St. in Fort Myers.

Supporters unable to attend the event can support their favorite bartender or team by making a secure donation online at unitedwaylee.org/bay-street-yard.