Louisville to Host 2026 Bourbon Classic Following Record-Breaking Year

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (June 5, 2024) – One of Louisville’s signature Bourbon events is back and better than ever: tickets for the 2026 Bourbon Classic are now on sale at BourbonClassic.com. The multi-day celebration of Bourbon, culinary artistry, and cocktail craftsmanship will occur in downtown Louisville on February 25–28, 2026.

Founded in 2012, the Bourbon Classic has grown into Louisville’s Original Celebration of the Bourbon Arts & Lifestyle and a marquee draw for enthusiasts from around the country. Following record-breaking attendance in 2025, the event returns to the Kentucky International Convention Center (KICC), located steps from Whiskey Row and surrounded by award-winning urban distilleries, restaurants, and hotels.

“Louisville is proud to host this standout Bourbon event year after year,” said Cleo Battle, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism. “It brings together the very best of our culinary talent, mixology scene, and Bourbon industry—and gives visitors an unforgettable taste of Bourbon Country right here in the heart of downtown.”

Highlights of the 2026 Bourbon Classic include:

• Cocktail & Culinary Challenge | Friday, Feb. 27
  • Top regional chefs and bartenders face off, pairing imaginative small plates with expertly crafted Bourbon cocktails.

• Bourbon University | Saturday, Feb. 28 (Daytime)
  • Enthusiasts can deepen their Bourbon knowledge with tastings, panels, and workshops led by industry experts.
    

• TASTE | Saturday, Feb. 28 (Evening)
  • A grand tasting event featuring top Bourbon brands, Louisville’s acclaimed restaurants, and Bourbon-inspired goods.

New for 2026:

• VIP Early Access to the Amber Lounge
• Dedicated Entry Lanes for faster check-in
• On-Site Bottle Sales from participating sponsors
  
• Crafted Corner Market showcasing artisanal, Bourbon-related goods

The 2026 Bourbon Classic is produced by FSA Management Group and The Bourbon Review, whose co-founder, Seth Thompson, notes:

“We're excited to continue our tradition of curating an elevated, intimate experience for Bourbon lovers from around the world. Louisville’s hospitality and Bourbon communities make this event possible, and we’re proud to call it home.”

Plan Your Trip

A preferred hotel rate is available at the Louisville Marriott Downtown, conveniently located across from the KICC. Visitors can enjoy easy access to attractions like the Muhammad Ali Center, Frazier History Museum, and world-famous Whiskey Row.

Tickets and information:

Visit BourbonClassic.com for weekend tickets and updates on additional events and activations.

About Bourbon Classic:

Bourbon Classic is a curated series of immersive events blending fine Bourbon, creative cocktails, and regional cuisine. Founded in 2012, the event captures the spirit of Kentucky’s signature industry and the innovation of Louisville’s Bourbon and culinary scenes.