Everybody likes a good competition, but add in bar tricks and maybe some fire and you've got the makings for something very cool - or should I say hot?

• Will Montague

Creative Loafing is partnering with Label for Martini Madness, a contest that pits six bartenders against one another to see who has the most flair, tricks and skill with a shaker. In addition to sampling bites from area restaurants, we're asking you, dear readers, to taste the martinis and help us decide which concoction should be deemed the official Creative Loafing martini. And yes, this is a bit of shameless self-promotion. $20 (for food and four mini martini drinks; additional martinis are $3). Aug. 23, 7 p.m.-10 p.m. Label, 900 N.C. Music Factory Blvd. For more info or to purchase tickets, visit www.clclt.com/events.