Smashed it? Algoma saloon unofficial world record holder

ALGOMA – Officially the unofficial world record holders.

That was the word from Smashed on the Rocks Saloon co-owner Rāna Ninneman four days after an estimated 5,000-plus people visited the lakeshore bar and restaurant, located on the north shore of the Ahnapee River just west of the north pier.

The July 4 event aimed to create and serve the world’s largest bloody mary, a drink stirred with the bar’s signature, award-winning mix in a six-foot-tall, stainless steel mug that held more than 300 gallons of the popular brunch cocktail.

“It was a lot of fun, and stress,” said Ninneman. “We had an estimate of around 5,800 attendees throughout the day, and just over 2,000 of them signed up for a bloody.”

The current record, set in Canada, is 155 gallons. Ninneman said her crew doubled that, to about 310 gallons. The food-grade mug featured a tap for dispensing and a viewing window so visitors could watch the mixture go down throughout the day. It bottomed out little more than seven hours after the first glass was poured.

“The feedback I’m getting is phenomenal, not only about the event but also about how great Algoma is,” Ninneman said. “The crowd was exceptionally nice and grateful. From beginning to end, I couldn’t have scripted a better day.”

Ninneman said the verification process requires steps such as weights and measures of the container, proof of required ingredients, a time-lapse and more, all of which have been documented and submitted.

In a Facebook post late Wednesday, Ninneman said Smashed on the Rocks loves giving people a reason to get together, make memories, laugh a little louder, stay a little longer and celebrate life.

“It’s about proving that a small town can dream big,” she wrote. “And wow, did you all show up. Thousands of you packed our little marina. Boats filled the harbor. Strangers became friends, friends became family. The energy was unforgettable. For one incredible day, Algoma felt like the center of the world.”

Her staff, she wrote, are the real MVPs, giving up their holiday to work through the heat, crowds, endless lines and complete chaos.

Storm after storm had her wondering if the event would happen. Then the clouds cleared and the fog lifted. The sun came out, and the lake was beautifully calm.

“It was one of those days you’ll remember forever,” Ninneman said.

This wasn’t just about breaking a world record, she said. It was about showing what can happen when a community comes together behind one wildly ambitious idea.

Visitors enjoyed live music day and night, a Blessing of the Fleet late afternoon and fireworks after dark. Many people donated non-perishables or cash to support local pantries, veterans groups and the Violence Intervention Project.

“We wanted to do something big for America’s 250th birthday — something that brings people together, supports great causes and creates a memory people will talk about for years,” Ninneman said.

Mission accomplished.