Bourbon on the Banks Festival
Image Credit: Bourbon on the Banks Festival
Bourbon on the Banks Festival®
Kentucky’s Premier Bourbon Tasting Experience
Bourbon on the Banks Festival®, is an annual celebration of Kentucky’s finest bourbons, taking place along the historic Kentucky River at River View Park in Frankfort, KY. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 3, 2026, and get ready for an unforgettable experience
—————————————————–
Special Access: 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. | Early Entry: 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. | General Admission: 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. | Twilight 4p.m. – 6 p.m.
—————————————————–
What to Expect
Immerse yourself in a world of exceptional bourbon, craft spirits, and more as you explore tastings from 70+ distilleries, plus select breweries and wineries. Meet the distillers themselves, get behind-the-scenes stories, and engage in one-on-one conversations with industry experts to gain unique insights into the craft and culture of bourbon.
Enhance your experience with special educational programming provided by Bourbon Women, offering unique opportunities to deepen your knowledge through curated discussions, expert-led sessions, and engaging storytelling that highlights the role of women in bourbon.
Enjoy live music from talented regional artists, savor delicious offerings from local food vendors, and browse unique bourbon-inspired artisan goods. Plus, take home a piece of the experience—bottled spirits and wine will be available for purchase on-site.
Must be 21+ to attend.
Only service dogs (on leash and under handler control) are permitted.
Join us for a day of bourbon, culture, and camaraderie on the banks of the Kentucky River!
Bourbon on the Banks Inc. is a private, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization based in Frankfort, Ky. Funds are privately raised and primarily derived from corporate sponsorships and event ticket sales. The festival and associated events are produced by a full-time executive director, community volunteers, and a board of directors. It celbrates the legacy and art of making bourbon, and bonding with friends.
Bourbon on the Banks Festival is held annually on the first Saturday in October, the Bourbon on the Banks Festival™ transforms Frankfort’s scenic River View Park into a celebration of Kentucky’s rich bourbon heritage. Featuring world-class bourbon tastings, live music, local art, and exceptional culinary offerings, the event is a can’t-miss experience for bourbon enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.
Funds for the festival are privately raised through corporate sponsorships and ticket sales, ensuring Bourbon on the Banks Festival™, Inc. remains steadfast in its mission to uplift the community and preserve Kentucky’s unique cultural identity.
About Bourbon on the Banks Festival™, Inc.
Bourbon on the Banks Festival™, Inc. is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization based in Frankfort, KY. Dedicated to promoting Kentucky’s bourbon culture while supporting charitable causes, the organization brings together bourbon lovers, community advocates, and cultural leaders each year for its premier Bourbon on the Banks Festival™.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Since its inception in 2019, Bourbon on the Banks Festival™ has contributed a remarkable $288,546 directly to beneficiaries. Including proceeds from the festival’s VIP Reception and Auction, total charitable giving now exceeds $460,000. This milestone highlights the festival’s exceptional growth and its deep impact on the community.
For more detailed information about our history of giving back, see the press releases below.
Festival Overview
The Bourbon on the Banks Festival is a spirits tasting event that takes place along the historic banks of the Kentucky River at the River View Park in Frankfort, Ky., and occurs annually on the first Saturday in October. The upcoming festival is scheduled on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026. Special Access Ticket holders get in at noon, Early Entry starts at 1 p.m., and General Admission starts at 2 p.m. The event ends at 6 p.m.
Those attending the festival will be required to purchase a ticket for entry which includes samples of spirits from top distilleries in the country. A few breweries and wineries will also be represented at the event. Attendees will be able to drink and learn about a variety of whiskeys, meet influencers in the bourbon industry, and enjoy a scenic stroll along the Kentucky River while listening to live music. Attendees can also purchase delicious offerings from a wide range of mobile food vendors and shop the handmade collections of bourbon-themed artisans. In addition, there will be the option to experience several unique demonstrations and educational discussions designed as enrichment opportunities for bourbon enthusiasts.