When the Bourbon Classic comes to town you know its the un-official beginning of a new bourbon season. Now celebrating its 13th year, the 2026 Bourbon Classic, Louisville’s original celebration of the bourbon arts and lifestyle, promises to be coming in hot. A lot of distilled spirits news headlines talk about headwinds but the only thing you will find around this event is tailwinds. Last year’s Bourbon Classic hosted a record-breaking number of attendees and this year’s event is ready to set a new record.
Held each year in downtown Louisville, this year’s event will take place February 25-28, 2026 at the Kentucky International Convention Center. The location is right in the heart of downtown and an easy walk to the city’s Bourbon District and more than 20 nearby distillery experiences.
“We’re thrilled to bring Bourbon Classic back to KICC and continue providing an intimate, top-shelf experience for all. We’re proud of our partnership with the Bourbon and hospitality industries, and excited for the future of Louisville’s Original Celebration of The Bourbon Arts & Lifestyle!,” said Bourbon Classic Co-Founder Seth Thompson.
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The Bourbon Classic weekend promises an unforgettable experience for bourbon lovers. Signature events include
- Cocktail and Culinary Challenge – Indulge in the talents of the region’s top culinary artists as they create exquisitely paired bourbon cocktails with bourbon-inspired cuisine. The challenge showcases the works from masters including Matt Pittman, the CEO and Founder of Meat Church, the award-winning rubs and seasonings BBQ brand. The competition also welcomes new talents to flaunt their creations, with chefs and mixologists hailing from popular Louisville locations like Hotel Bourré Bonne, Guacamole Modern Mexican, Porch Kitchen & Bar and many more.
- Bourbon University – Expand your knowledge of the American whiskey with this Saturday night event, offered in seven different sessions. Hear from all-stars in the bourbon world from Angel’s Envy, Sazerac, The Bar at Fort Nelson and Michter’s Distillery as they lead you in discussions, demonstrations and tastings, furthering your knowledge of the great whiskey, primarily home to the Bluegrass state. Instructors feature the one-and-only Fred Noe, a seventh-generation Master Distiller at James B. Beam Distilling Company and the great-grandson of the iconic distiller and Kentucky Bourbon Hall-of-Famer Andrea Wilson, the first woman to serve on the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.
- TASTE – Close out your bourbon-filled weekend with TASTE –the grand finale to the premier festival. The event features over 175 Whiskey samples from our wide array of Bourbon Classic distillers. Each guest will receive a complimentary Glencairn tasting glass as they mix and mingle with representatives from each distillery. Bourbon tastings will also be accompanied by delectable, culinary dishes from featured restaurants in the area.
Limited tickets are also available for several unique bourbon experiences including:
- Top Shelf: A Buffalo Trace Antique Collection Experience – Begin your Bourbon Classic with an exclusive bourbon and culinary experience—with a taste of the entire Buffalo Trace Antique Collection (BATC) at the award-winning 21c Museum Hotel. The Antique Collection was introduced to the public over two decades and is made up of six whiskeys. The tasting is accompanied by a lineup of culinary tasting creations made by the Proof on Main team.
- A Classic Dinner –The Kitchen Table Restaurant will host a prestigious dinner with the First Family of Bourbon. Guests will enjoy the latest offerings from the James B. Beam Distilling Company, including a specially crafted dinner paired with unique cocktails from the Beam portfolio.
- Bottle Sales – Attendees can look forward to bottle sale experiences with participating sponsors.
- Bourbon Craft Market – Attendees will be able to taste and explore in the Crafted Corner, showcasing a selection of artisanal hand-crafted goods. There’s something for everyone to discover.
Bourbon Classic to Take Place February 25-28, 2026
Founded in 2012 by FSA Management Group and The Bourbon Review, Bourbon Classic brings together the best of the Bourbon and culinary worlds through a collection of rare, interactive events. Infused with exceptional tastings, workshops and unrivaled sips, these events are sure to thrill any Bourbon connoisseur and enthusiast. BourbonClassic.com events will take place February 25-28, 2026, in Louisville, the gateway to all the heritage and innovation of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country. Bourbon Classic says VIP tickets are sold out and only a limited amount of Main Experience tickets remain.
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