Long before the modern craft cocktail movement, the misty waters of the Salish Sea were home to a much more dangerous spirits trade. In this gripping Learning Lab, we dive into the true history of the "shadow boats" and "liquor pirates" that turned the Puget Sound into a smuggler’s paradise during Prohibition. From the legendary Roy Olmstead—the "Good Bootlegger" who ran a massive, gun-free whiskey empire—to the high-speed "fire boats" powered by surplus Boeing aircraft engines, you’ll learn how Seattle’s geography made it a global hub for illicit rum running. Join our local expert for a session that separates fact from folklore, exploring the daring raids, hidden coves, and the enduring legacy of the pirates who kept the Northwest thirsty.

PRESENTED BY

Rebecca A. Demarest Panzer

Author - Book Designer - Writing Instructor
Title

Rebecca A. Demarest (she/her) is an award-winning author, poet, playwright, book designer, and writing instructor living in Seattle, WA with her husband and three muppets. Over the pandemic she accidentally became a local expert on certain figures from Seattle's history during Prohibition, as one does. For more information on her writing, please visit rebeccademarest.com or follow on BlueSky @writerlybliss.

CARNIVAL OF COCKTAILS: LEARNING LAB Session

This session is part of the Carnival of Cocktails and attendees must have a Carnival of Cocktails pass to attend. Because these sessions are intimate and high-demand, registration is handled on-site and day-of. * Claim Your Spot: Head to the Learning Lab Desk (Level 2) as soon as you arrive at the event to reserve your seat for that day's schedule.

• The Tasting Experience: To participate in guided tastings and flight samples, attendees will apply drink tickets toward their session entry.

• "Dry Seats" Available: Just here for the knowledge? We offer "Dry Seats" for those who want to audit the seminar and soak up the expertise without sampling the product (no tickets required!).