Bourbon Classic 2026 will take place February 25 – 28, 2026! The main events will take place at the Kentucky International Convention Center, located in the heart of downtown.

Here is the videos we published on @ThingsToLou in 2025 after the festival!

–“The Folks Fueling the Bourbon Industry”

–“Four Distilleries to Visit in Kentucky”

WEEKEND EVENTS:

Friday, February 27
Cocktail and Culinary Challenge – the Ultimate Chef & Mixologist Pairing Competition
Experience curated pairings of exquisite cuisine and cocktails, crafted specifically for Bourbon Classic. Watch as the region’s top bartenders and chefs battle it out for the coveted titles of “Best Cocktail” and “Best Small Plate.”

Saturday, February 28
Begin with Bourbon University and close with the grand finale TASTE
Bourbon University:
Bourbon education for all: whether you’re a novice or a seasoned enthusiast, our classes cater to your curiosity. Learn from industry legends and connect with fellow enthusiasts.

TASTE:
It’s time for a Bourbon experience like no other! Immerse yourself in the world of Bourbon with tastings from our Bourbon Classic distillers, meet the distiller representatives and enjoy delicious dishes from our featured restaurants. And don’t forget your complimentary Glencairn tasting glass!

WHERE: Kentucky International Convention Center

Press Release:

2026 Bourbon Classic Tickets Are Now LIVE!

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (June 5, 2024) – Bourbon Classic is thrilled to announce weekend tickets are now on sale for the 2026 annual celebration of the best of the best in Bourbon, culinary and cocktails after shattering attendance records in 2025. Established 2012, Bourbon Classic is Louisville’s Original Celebration of The Bourbon Arts & Lifestyle.

Tickets are available at BourbonClassic.com. The event will be held February 25-28, 2026, in Louisville, Kentucky.

The 2026 Bourbon Classic weekend events will take place at the Kentucky International Convention Center, located in the heart of downtown Louisville, an easy walking distance to the nearby urban distilleries.

EXPERIENCE THE BEST IN BOURBON

The Bourbon Classic weekend promises an unforgettable experience for Bourbon lovers.

Signature events include:

 Cocktail and Culinary Challenge (Friday, February 27) – Witness the masters at work as bartenders create exquisite Bourbon cocktails paired with delicious Bourbon-inspired cuisine from the region’s top chefs.
 Bourbon University (Saturday, February 28) – Deepen your Bourbon knowledge with industry experts leading discussions, demonstrations, and tastings.
 TASTE (Saturday, February 28) – The grand finale features tastings from top Bourbon brands, delectable food pairings from featured restaurants, and unique Bourbon-inspired products.

ENHANCING THE EXPERIENCE

 Early Entry for VIP: VIP ticket holders will enjoy early access to the Amber Lounge, allowing them to get a head start on exploring the exclusive VIP tastings and experiences before doors open to the main event.
 Speedy Entry: All ticket holders can look for their designated ticket line to minimize wait times and get into the Bourbon fun faster.
 Bottle Sales: Attendees can look forward to bottle sales 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.

“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!”
– Bourbon Classic co-founder Seth Thompson

The Bourbon Classic is operated by Tony Butler of FSA Management Group and The Bourbon Review’s Seth Thompson.

EVENT DETAILS AND TICKETS

Tickets for the 2026 Bourbon Classic weekend events are available for purchase now at BourbonClassic.com. Information about additional events will be announced soon.

PARTNERING HOTEL (Preferred Rate)

A preferred rate is available at the Louisville Marriott Downtown, 280 W. Jefferson St. The hotel is a short walk to the weekend venue, the Kentucky International Convention Center. The terrific downtown location is in close range to Whiskey Row, dining, and major visitor experiences.

CLICK HERE to access the preferred rate.

###

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.

Bourbon Classic events will take place February 25-28, 2026, in Louisville, the gateway to all the heritage and innovation of Kentucky’s Bourbon Country. Information is available at https://www.bourbonclassic.com.