Enjoy Kentucky’s bourbon culture in a safe, welcoming, and inviting way.

GLAAD-nominated nonprofit Queer Kentucky is proud to introduce the second annual “Bourbon & Belonging: Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week”, the only LGBTQ+ inclusive Bourbon week in the country.

Bourbon and Belonging will take place October 3-5, 2025 across Kentucky with four different cities and regions signed on.

Thanks to support from our tourism partners in Northern Kentucky, Louisville, Lexington, and Paducah, this will be the premier event for LGBTQ+ consumers from Kentucky and beyond.

LOUISVILLE EVENTS

Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Tasting Experience

Oct 3

We invite you to a complimentary experience at KY Peerless, which includes two pours of any of our offerings. This tasting experience takes place every 30 minutes during our operating hours, from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Please mention Bourbon & Belonging for this experience, and we look forward to welcoming you into our distillery. Free to attend.

Beyond the Barrel: Bourbon Food Tour

Oct 3

Uncover the hidden side of Kentucky bourbon on the world’s only walking bourbon food tour. As the sun sets over Louisville’s vibrant NuLu neighborhood, you’ll explore beyond the barrel to trace bourbon’s journey from Appalachian roots to global fame. Along the way, enjoy creative bites and modern riffs on classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Mint Julep while stopping by award-winning restaurants and rooftop bars. Sample everything from fat-washed to river-aged bourbons, and hear the untold stories you won’t find on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.

Old Forester x Bourbon & Belonging Fall Garden Party

Oct 3

Join us for a Fall Garden Party, celebrating the flavors of the season. Unwind and experience the Old Forester Distillery while savoring craft cocktails and taking in scenic views of the Ohio River from our rooftop terrace. Enjoy hors d’oeuvres, seasonal cocktails, and live music!

Free to attend, donations encouraged.

Kentucky Queer History Tour

Oct 4

Explore the queer stories of Louisville’s past and present as you stroll Bardstown Road, the city’s vibrant gayborhood. Wander the lush avenues of historic Cherokee Triangle while celebrating queer joy and uncovering the diverse history of Kentucky’s LGBTQ+ community—from a Black Prohibition-era drag queen to poets, authors, and activists who paved the way. End the tour with a drink at one of the city’s best gay bars. A tour runs from 11-12:30 and 1-2:30 on both Saturday and Sunday.

Boss Molly at Hereafter

Oct 4

Our friends at Boss Molly Bourbon are bringing the good times to Hereafter. We’re not spilling all the details just yet, but trust us… this is going to be one for the books. You can expect a night filled with bold flavor, great company, and a little something extra that only Boss Molly can bring.

Evan Williams Presents Neat Beats

Oct 4

Where the pour is smooth, and the beats are smoother. Slip on your wireless headphones, grab your favorite bourbon served neat, and step into a dance floor like no other. At Neat Beats, three stations play everything from funk and disco to house and pop—each channel lighting up your headphones in vibrant colors. You choose your vibe, set your pace, and lose yourself in the rhythm. Surrounded by the warmth of Kentucky bourbon culture, this silent disco is a sensory journey for your ears, taste buds, and soul. Whether you’re grooving with friends or swaying solo, the night belongs to you—no chaser needed.

Tickets coming soon!

Le Moo Drag Brunch

Oct 5

Le Moo’s Legendary Drag Brunch is glam to the bone! Join us for a Taylor Swift themed Drag Show hosted by RuPaul’s Drag Race’s very own Dusty Ray Bottoms! Brunch is served buffet-style and packed with seasonal specialties alongside some of your favorite classic breakfast dishes! Whether you’re craving something sweet, savory, or fabulously in between, our rotating selections are designed to wow your taste buds while the queens wow the crowd. Come hungry and ready to slay the day! Two seatings, one at 10:45 and the other at 1:00. Reservations are required.

Hop Atomica & Jefferson’s Bourbon Presents Paws & Pride: An Evening on the Patio

Oct 5

Join us for a summer soirée of community, connection, and celebration—an LGBTQ+ friendly gathering benefiting Bourbon & Belonging and Queer KY. Refresh with seasonal spritzes, summer shandys, and our signature Jefferson’s Ocean Bourbon Spritz while your pup enjoys water bowls and complimentary treats. The highlight of the night: our “Cutest Pup on the Patio” contest, with gift cards awarded to the top three winners. Bring your four-legged best friend, gather your crew, and savor a summer evening of belonging, laughter, and wagging tails.

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