Seven days of booze

If the ol’ liver implores you not to go out drinking on all seven days of the annual Midtown Cocktail Week, then compromise and don’t miss these flagship events:

Ladies and libations: Pretty much doesn’t get better than the “Women & Cocktails” night on Monday, August 15, from 6 to 10 p.m. at Shady Lady Saloon (1409 R Street). Website says, “Celebrate the influence of women in the creation of the modern cocktail.” And tip generously.

Bartender brawl: 2011’s mixology competition will go down at Red Lotus (2716 J Street, 6 to 8 p.m.) on Tuesday, August 16. Will Russell Eastman defend his title? Will I down each mixologist’s unique cocktail creation on an ill-advised libation bender?

Aloha, suit up!: Get your island buzz on at The Golden Bear’s (2326 K Street) tropical luau on Sunday, August 21, from 2 to 6 p.m. (Insert personal anecdote about getting lei’d at G. Bear here.)

Midtown Cocktail Week begins Monday, August 15, and ends on Sunday, August 21. Find out more at http://midtowncocktailweek.org.