The Kentucky Bourbon Festival announced next year’s festival will be September 10-13, 2026, in Bardstown, Kentucky, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Celebrating its milestone 35th anniversary in 2026, the festival brings bourbon enthusiasts from all over the globe to celebrate the spirited history and craft of bourbon during National Bourbon Heritage Month.
Reimagined Kentucky Bourbon Festival Sells Out 4 Years in a Row
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“We can’t wait to raise a glass with bourbon lovers from around the world as we celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival,” said Randy Prasse, COO and President of the festival.
“Since revamping the event in 2021, we’ve sold out every year—and 2026 is shaping up to be our biggest, boldest celebration yet. You won’t want to miss what we have in store.”
All tickets to the 2025 Kentucky Bourbon Festival sold out for the fourth consecutive year. The festival features expanded opportunities for bourbon enthusiasts to engage with the most sought-after brands alongside engaging and immersive educational experiences. With 85% of its ticketed guests visiting from outside Kentucky, the event continues to serve as an important tourism and economic engine for the entire region.
“We are looking forward to another remarkable year at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival,” said Cordell Lawrence, Board Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Eastern Light Distilling. “Kentucky Bourbon Festival has become the premier destination for bourbon enthusiasts to not only enjoy exceptional whiskeys, but also to connect with the passionate individuals who craft them.”
The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is presented by long-term sponsor The Koetter Group, a third generation-owned family business specializing in construction, real estate, building services and K-Rax premium spirits barrel storage systems. An on-sale date for 2026 tickets will be announced in the future. Subscribers to the KBF e-newsletter receive advance notice of ticket sales, special events and other news.”
The Kentucky Bourbon Festival is a celebration of Kentucky Bourbon and the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown, Kentucky. What began as a Bourbon tasting dinner has grown into a truly authentic experience that brings together bourbon enthusiasts from all over the world. In its 34th year, the Kentucky Bourbon Festival is one of Kentucky’s leading cultural festivals.
Related Stories
– What is Bourbon Heritage Month?
– When Did Bourbon Whiskey Become a Distinctive Product of the United States?
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