Beginning February 12, people can Toast to the Arts at more than two dozen local bars, restaurants and breweries supporting the 2016 ArtsWave Community Campaign.

Establishments will offer special wines, cocktails and beers for ArtsWave during the Toast to the Arts. A portion of the sales of those drinks will go to the 2016 Community Campaign, which runs through April 28 and supports more than 100 arts organizations making an impact in Greater Cincinnati. Last year, ArtsWave raised $12.25 million, and this year’s Campaign Chairs, pianist Awadagin Pratt and Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber President & CEO Jill P. Meyer, announced plans to raise $12.45 million.

“The level of craft and commitment that goes into the making of tasty food and fine beverages is very similar to that which goes into the making of fine art. So many people in the dining industry are passionate about artistic disciplines and so many artists are passionate about food,” Pratt said. “It's a perfect marriage.”

In its third year, Toast to the Arts is incorporating two new elements: an ArtsWave beer from Listermann and Blank Slate brewing companies and a cocktail competition.

The collaboration beer, Roots, is a ginger-based brew developed by master brewers Scott Lafollette from Blank Slate and Patrick Gilroy from Listermann with ArtsWave staff and board members.

"Great music, art and food go very well together. It is hard to imagine a thriving city that doesn't have all three," Gilroy said. "It was not difficult to take the opportunity to tie our craft into the work and mission of ArtsWave, and it is always a pleasure to brew with Blank Slate." 

Roots will be available on draft and in bottles in a variety of stores and establishments where Listermann and Blank Slate products are sold. 

Meanwhile, more than a dozen bars and restaurants will compete to win the first Toast to the Arts cocktail competition. Each of the competitors is crafting a special ArtsWave drink, which will be available February 12 through April 17. People can try them all and vote for their favorites online at wcpo.com/artswave.

In addition to voting, Toast to the Arts patrons can spread the word about their favorites on social media by tagging #Toast2Arts, @ArtsWave and #Give2ArtsWave.