The premier festival for serious bourbon lovers comes to Bardstown September 12th to the 16th. Bardstown, the Bourbon Capital of the World, is the logical home of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival. This week long party transforms our quaint downtown into a bourbon celebration. In addition to distillery tours and tastings, learn about Kentucky bourbon history. Savor fantastic southern cuisine while enjoying live music, browse local crafts on “ The Great Lawn” by City Hall, or make the perfect Manhattan in a mixology class. Book your stay at the elegant Bourbon Manor Bed and Breakfast, near all the festival attractions. Our serene wooded grounds offer a quiet retreat after an active day of exploring the festival. Top off your evening relaxing with a cocktail at our very own bourbon lounge. After a restful night, wake up to a bourbon-themed gourmet breakfast that will have you ready for the day ahead.
Festival Attraction and Events
The festival offers fascinating ways to explore, taste and learn about bourbon. And at the heart of the celebration, “The Great Lawn,” visitors can stroll vendor stands, enjoy live music and sip a refreshing cocktail. Savor a great meal at the food court, then check out the classic car show, and keep the youngsters happy at the family fun area.
Find the most bourbon tasting choices under one roof, at the Guthrie Opportunity Center. Local distilleries gather here with samples of their bourbon along with great food and music. Woodford Reserve and Four Roses Distillery offer dining choices in addition to tours and demonstrations at their locations.
Visitors interested in the science behind bourbon should stop by Spalding Hall Chapel. Discover how the grain (corn, rye, wheat and malted barley) affects flavor, and learn about the fermentation and maturation process. While the hands-on classes have lessons in mixology and paring the perfect food or chocolate with bourbon.
Plan a special evening at fancy events held in historic homes, museums and VIP lounges. Gather around the bonfire at Wickland (Home of Three Governors) for an evening of fine Kentucky cuisine, music and history. Or dance under the stars during the Cigars and Jazz evening at My Old Kentucky Home State Park. Reserve your space at the VIP penthouse lounge, overlooking “The Great Lawn” that includes premium spirits and fine finger food. However, for the most elegant night, put on your black tie for the festival gala with dinner and dancing.
Kentucky has a long history of crafting the finest bourbon and many high quality distilleries call Bardstown home. Join the celebration in Bardstown and savor the sweet reward of our local history and craftsmanship. Reserve your suite today at the Bourbon House Manor for a memorable Kentucky Bourbon Festival getaway.