What is flair?

Flair Bartending is the skilled practice of entertaining guests, clientele, or audience with the throwing/juggling of bar tools (eg; shaker tins, glassware, garnishes) and liquor bottles in tricky, dazzling ways. Despite common misconception these tricks can be performed behind any bar, using anything that isnt bolted down and using any liquor bottle, no matter how full it is. It has become a sought after talent among venue owners and marketers to help advertise a liquor product or the opening of a bar establishment. Competitions have been organized by liquor brands to attract flair bartenders, and some hospitality training companies hold courses to teach techniques of throwing and catching.
"Flair", or "freestyle bartending", as it may be called can be divided into two styles; working flair or competition flair. The difference between the two being the level of risk and complication of the tricks are higher for competitions. Good flair should be light hearted and entertaining while making actual, drinkable cocktails. It is a form of showmanship for confident cocktail bartenders that differs from the ideas behind mixology and drink-orientated, or service-minded bartending.