If you have to choose one party this Saturday that mashes together Cinco de Mayo and the Kentucky Derby, this is the one. Ok, it's probably the only party mixing these wildly different events together, but so what? Our good friends at the North Star Bartenders Guild see a common thread – good cocktails. Thus, the drinks-slinging crew is back with its latest soiree: the Kentucky Derby Fiesta. That's right, it's a mint julep and margarita cocktail party. Held at the Bridgewater Lofts in downtown Minneapolis (near the Guthrie), the fiesta kicks off at 3 p.m. with six top bartenders mixing up all the cocktails you can drink. It'll then roll right into the Kentucky Derby viewing at 5:15 p.m. (shown on a big projection screen). Partygoers will also have access to the building's rooftop deck. Guild boss Jesse Held hopes partygoers will dress the part (ladies: dust off that big hat!).

"I've heard some people will be combining a sombrero with a pastel colored suit," Held said. "It'll be interesting to say the least."

Held said the guild has listened to feedback from its previous parties and made a couple changes. For one, the all-you-can-drink ticket is now $30 (down from $50). The cost also includes food from the Bullfrog Cajun Bar (southern fare and a taco bar). Also, past parties were all held on a Sunday. Held said the move to Saturday will allow folks to nurse that hangover on their day off.

For more info, check out the North Star Bartender Guild's website or the Facebook invite.

Buy your tickets online here. Tickets are also available at La Belle Vie, Eat Street Social, Eli's (both locations) and the Sample Room. A portion of the proceeds will go toward the Animal Humane Society.

Details: 3-9 p.m. Saturday. $30. The Bridgewater Lofts, 215 10th Av. S., Mpls. www.nsbarguild.org

(Photo by Chad Larson)