The Kentucky Bourbon Festival — the state's yearly celebration of its most well-known spirit, held during National Bourbon Heritage Month — is due to return in September 2025 for another weekend of whiskey tourism. 

Ahead of the 2025 event, the Kentucky Bourbon Festival has now issued a "save the date" for its 2026 edition. The Kentucky Bourbon Festival will be held from 10–13th September 2026 in Bardstown, Kentucky. It will mark 35 years since the festival launched to bring bourbon enthusiasts from around the world together.

Randy Prasse, COO and president of the festival, said: “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. 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 now features expanded opportunities for bourbon enthusiasts to engage with the most sought-after brands alongside engaging and immersive educational experiences. With 85 per cent of its ticketed guests visiting from outside Kentucky, the event continues to serve as an important tourism and economic engine for the entire region.

Cordell Lawrence, board chair and chief executive officer of Eastern Light Distilling: “We are looking forward to another remarkable year at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. KBF 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 on-sale date for tickets to the Kentucky Bourbon Festival 2026 is yet to be announced.