Celebrate National Bourbon Week: June 14-21, 2026
- Pegasus
- May 20
- 8 min read
A comprehensive eight day journey of exclusive tastings, behind-the-scenes distillery experiences, special releases, and bourbon-inspired events.
17 Distilleries/Tasting Rooms
30+ Events
25 Sq. Miles
Join us for the third annual National Bourbon Week for a comprehensive eight day journey of exclusive tastings, behind-the-scenes distillery experiences, special releases, and bourbon-inspired gatherings. Featuring 30+ ticketed and free events throughout Bardstown and Nelson County, National Bourbon Week is the best week of the year to be in the Bourbon Capital of the World.
AT THE DISTILLERIES
Unique distillery experiences you can’t miss. From special tours, engaging master distiller panels, to one-of-a-kind tastings.
DOWNTOWN
An entertainment district alive with spirit and sound. Live music and distillery tastings down Main Street, local culinary and cocktail specials and more.
Here are the exciting events!
Elijah Craig National Bourbon Day Celebration
Date : June 14, 2026
Time : 11:00 am - 5:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience
Join the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience team in Bardstown as we celebrate NationalBourbon Day with a full day dedicated to Elijah Craig—one of Kentucky’s most iconicbourbons. This open-house style event will feature a variety of Elijah Craig experiences throughoutthe day, including tastings, special food and cocktail offerings, live music, craftdemonstrations, and opportunities to explore the story and craftsmanship behind thebrand. Guests can enjoy interactive stations highlighting the elements that shape greatwhiskey, browse exclusive Elijah Craig merchandise, and experience the Heaven HillBourbon Experience in a whole new way. Whether you’re a longtime Elijah Craig fan or simply looking for a great way to celebrateNational Bourbon Day in the Bourbon Capital of the World, this all-day celebration offers something for everyone. The event also kicks off a week of bourbon celebrations across Bardstown, making itthe perfect time to visit and raise a glass to America’s native spirit. More details will be announced as the celebration approaches. This event is free but tickets are required. Please click for More Info.
The Boone Family Reunion Distillery Festival
Date : June 14, 2026
Time : 11:00 am - 3:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Preservation Distillery
In 1776, Wattie Boone sparked what we now know as bourbon, right here in Bardstown Kentucky, on the grounds of what is now Preservation Distillery & Farm. 250 years later, we’re raising a glass to that legacy! Join us on National Bourbon Day June 14th as we kick off National Bourbon Week with a lively, festival-style celebration honoring the Boone family and America’s native spirit. Sip unique expressions, enjoy craft cocktails, LIVE music, BBQ bites, and interactive experiences across the farm. Complete all (5) activations to gain exclusive access to a limited-edition release created just for the occasion! This event is not a guided tour, and guests are encouraged to start their journey anytime between 11am-3pm while the farm will be active all day with live music, cocktails, and tastings! Hosted by Proprietor Marci Palatella, Master of Maturation Kyle Lloyd, and Head Distiller JT Leasor—this is your chance to taste, learn, explore Preservation like never before!
Event Inclusions: Exclusive Preservation product tasting with a souvenir glass, Crafted Cocktail in a souvenir glass, BBQ Bites, Exclusive access to a National Bourbon Week Release! Custom made Preservation keepsake. LIVE seminars hosted by Marci Palatella, Kyle Lloyd, and JT Leasor, Tickets for this event are $75 and can be booked via More Info.
The Beam Backyard Luau
Date : June 15, 2026
Time : 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Beam Family Home
This National Bourbon Week, join the James B. Beam Distilling Co. as they celebrate 8 Generations of Beam Family Distilling with a vibrant revival of an iconic tradition! Just as Booker Noe famously hosted his legendary “Bourbon-Ques” in his own backyard, now Beam invites you to the annual “Backyard Luau”! Experience an unforgettable evening in Jim Beam’s backyard, complete with a delicious pig roast, expertly crafted Beam-made bourbon cocktails, and lively music.
Events Inclusions: 3 Beam-Made Bourbon Cocktails-Luau Style Pig Roast with Multiple Food Stations-Live Music. Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm EST, Price: $150.00 per person, Must be 21+Drink Smart®. Tickets for this event are $150. Please click More Info.
Proofed by the Spring
Date : June 16, 2026
Time : 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Log Still Distillery
A bourbon experience shaped by intention, guided by tradition, and Kentucky’s limestone water. Experienced at the source, not just talked about. Led by Owner & Founder Wally Dant, it begins not with the barrel, but with the water. Through conversation and guided tasting, you will experience the process firsthand. You will explore how limestone springs, local grains and, thoughtful proofing shape every glass at Log Still Distillery. Tickets for this event are limited and may be booked by clicking More Info.
Finish Your Own Blueprint Series Batch 002 Experience
Date : June 16, 2026
Time : 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Old SteelHouse Distillery
Join the founders of Old SteelHouse Distillery at the historic property in Deatsville for a unique two hour experience! You’ll begin with a tour of this incredibly historic distillery campus, followed by a brief class on wood finishing. Finally, you’ll select from four unique wood cubes to finish your very own Batch 002 and take home your 375 milliliter bottle to let it finish to your desired taste profile. If you wish to book this event, please click More Info.
Front Yard BBQ with Master Distiller John Rempe
Date : June 17, 2026
Time : 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Lux Row Distillers
Join your friends at Lux Row Distillers for a casual and fun front yard barbeque. Dinner and an open bar will be included in the price of tickets. Enjoy live music and an appearance by Master Distiller John Rempe as we celebrate National Bourbon Week in the Bourbon Capital of the World. Tickets for this event are $75. More Info.
Bill’s Bourbon Soiree with Master Distiller Dr. Blake Layfield
Date : June 17, 2026
Time : 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Maker's Mark Distillery
Join Maker’s Mark for an intimate bourbon soirée hosted in the Visitor Center where heritage, craftsmanship, and celebration come together in perfect harmony. This exclusive gathering offers guests the rare opportunity to mix and mingle with Bill Jr., son of the founders, as well as Master Distiller Dr. Blake Layfield, whose expertise continues to shape the legacy of Maker’s Mark.Savor a curated selection of heavy appetizers thoughtfully paired to complement the rich, signature flavors of Maker’s Mark bourbon. Guests will also enjoy two complimentary cocktails, each crafted to highlight the distillery’s iconic character while adding a festive twist to the evening. Whether you’re a longtime bourbon enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and spirited experience, this soirée promises warm conversation, exceptional flavor, and a true taste of traditional celebration of bourbon and the people who bring it to life. Tickets for this event are $75. Please click More Info.
Big Vat Blending Class
Date : June 17, 2026 & June 18, 2026
Time : 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Potter Jane Distilling Co.
Join Potter Jane Distilling Company for a Big Vat Blending Class, an exclusive hands-on experience led by owner Jane Bowie. Limited to just 12 participants, this intimate session offers a behind-the-scenes look at the art of whiskey blending. Your ticket includes a guided blending class, light bites, and a bottle of Potter Jane’s new release, Big Vat Liar. Tickets for this event are $100 and capacity is limited to 12. You may book via the More Info.
A National Bourbon Week Celebration at The Kitchen Table
Date : June 18, 2026
Time : 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : James B. Beam Distilling Co.
Celebrate National Bourbon Week at The Kitchen Table Restaurant with a limited-time, multi-course dinner experience. Each course is crafted to pair with a selection of Beam whiskies, highlighting bold flavors, seasonal ingredients, and classic Kentucky inspiration. This exclusive offering is available for a limited time with limited seating. Reserve your seat now and celebrate National Bourbon Week the Beam way. Price: $175 per person. Seating is limited. If you wish to book this dinner please click the More Info.
Bourbon Capital Mash Up
Date : June 19, 2026
Time : 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : BESPOKE IN BOND
Join us for the second annual Bourbon Capital Mash Up! This event brings together ten incredible distilleries and culinary partners at the stunning BESPOKE IN BOND event venue in downtown Bardstown for a can’t-miss evening. Each Bourbon Capital Alliance partner distillery will be pouring their best for guests alongside local chefs and restaurants with paired small bites. Guests will also have the opportunity to meet Master Distillers and Master Blenders. Get a bottle or two to take home through our charitable bottle pull. Additionally, custom cocktails crafted by many partner distilleries will be available and are included with your ticket. More Info.
Barrels & Biscuits with Master Distiller Stephen Beam
Date : June 20, 2026
Time : 9:30 am - 12:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Limestone Branch Distillery
Start your morning at Limestone Branch Distillery with Barrels & Biscuits, a relaxed bourbon brunch experience. Guests will be welcomed with a Bourbon Bacon Bloody Mary before enjoying a hearty meal while hearing the story of Limestone Branch from Steve Beam.
After brunch, enjoy a guided tasting led by Stephen Fante featuring several Yellowstone expressions, along with an opportunity to explore the distillery, meet the team, and have bottles signed. It’s the perfect blend of good food, great bourbon, and behind-the-scenes storytelling. Tickets for this event are $50. Click More Info.
Big Vat Bar Crawl
Date : June 20, 2026
Time : 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Downtown Bardstown
Join Potter Jane Distilling Company for a Big Vat Bar Crawl, a spirited afternoon in Downtown Bardstown with distillery owners Jane Bowie and Denny Potter. The crawl begins at Evergreen Liquors with a neat pour of their new release, Big Vat Liar, before heading to Scout & Scholar and Mr. Tubs for Jane and Denny inspired cocktails. Expect great whiskey, great company, and a fun afternoon celebrating National Bourbon Week. Please note that this experience begins at Evergreen Liquors in downtown Bardstown. Tickets are $50 each and limited. To grab your spot, please click HERE.
23rd Annual Bourbon City Street Concert
Date : June 20, 2026
Time : 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Downtown Bardstown
Join us downtown on Bardstown Main Street for the 23rd annual Bourbon City Street Concert! Bring your chairs and enjoy a night full of live music, food, and fun! This year we’re bringing some new ideas to downtown throughout the entire day, and we’re excited to tell you about it. So, stay tuned for future updates! More Info.
Father’s Day Bourbon Brunch & Tour
Date : June 21, 2026
Time : 10:00 am - 12:30 pm (America/New_York)
Venue : Barton 1792 Distillery
Barton 1792 Distillery is excited to welcome you to the oldest continuously operating distillery in Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Join us for a locally catered hot brunch as we dive into our storied history, followed by an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour and rickhouse tasting led by Master Distiller Ross Cornelissen. To conclude this rare experience, guests will have the unique opportunity to thieve whiskey directly from a barrel. As the distillery is currently closed to the public for tours, this is a truly one-of-a-kind way to celebrate the fathers in our lives and end National Bourbon Week on a high note.
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT.
More Info.
Questions?
Sam T. Lacy
Executive Directorsam@bourboncapital.org
DID YOU KNOW?
Pegasus Tours offers both private and group bourbon tours! And they have special rates with The Galt House Hotel.
Note: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not represent any endorsement by Pegasus.
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