Night life events: Mickey Finn's hosts Backlot Brewfest

Ribs and brews

Celebrate 18 years of Mickey Finn's at the Backlot Brewfest, a rib cook-off and brewfest from noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 11. Performers include Rock City 7, Betty Soul, Almost Famous, and Tim and Ned. Try the anniversary brew, Mexican Cerveza, a light beer brewed with Corona yeast strain and served with a lime. Miller Lite and Gudenteit Hefeweizen are also on tap. Kid-friendly and free until 5 p.m. After that, tickets cost $5 in advance or $10 at the door.

Mickey Finn's Brewery is located at 412 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. (847) 362-6688 or mickeyfinnsbrewery.com.

Muvico's mojitos

Mix and muddle your own mojitos at a class at Muvico Theaters' Bogarts Bar and Grill at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 16. Learn the history of mojitos and create your own with the help of an instructor. The event is $20 and includes free muddlers and shakers, light appetizers and a free premiere movie upgrade coupon.

Muvico Theaters' Bogarts Bar and Grill is at 9701 Bryn Mawr Ave., Rosemont. (847) 447-1030 or muvico.com.

Cocktail talk

It's like girl talk — but without the drama and men-bashing. The North Shore Distillery and Tavern Lounge partner for a cocktail discussion Thursday, Aug. 16. Educate, engage and revel in the knowledge of how some of your favorite drinks come to be. The North Shore Distillery is responsible for such spirits as the Distiller's Gin No. 6, North Shore Vodka, Aquavit Private Reserve, Distiller's Gin No. 11 and Sirène Absinthe Verte.

Tavern Lounge is located at 519 N. Milwaukee Ave., Libertyville. (847) 367-5755 or tavernlibertyville.com.