FESTIVAL INFO
Everything you need to Know before you go
General Info
What is the address of the Kentucky Bourbon Festival?
The Kentucky Bourbon Festival takes place on the historic grounds of Spalding Hall at:
114 N. Fifth Street, Bardstown, KY 40004
What are the dates and hours of operation of the 2025 Kentucky Bourbon Festival?
September 10-13, 2026
- VIP entry: 11 AM daily
- General Admission entry: 12 PM daily
- Thursday: 6 – 9:30 PM ET (Bourbon in the Air)
- Friday: 12 PM – 6 PM ET
- Saturday: 12 PM – 6 PM ET
- Sunday: 12 PM – 4 PM ET
Are tickets required?
Yes, admission tickets are required for entry.
When do tickets go on sale?
April 14, 2026 (until sold out). Subscribe to our newsletter and become a Bourbon Insider for early access on April 13.
Can I bring kids?
No. This is a 21+ event. Valid ID required.
What if it rains?
The festival is rain or shine. All sales are final.
What is the bag policY?
Allowed:
- Clear bags (max 12” x 6” x 12”)
- Small clutches (4.5” x 6.5”)
- Small purses/fanny packs (subject to search)
Prohibited items include:
- Weapons, fireworks, illegal substances
- Liquids
- Large bags/luggage
- Scooters, skateboards
- Laser pointers, spray paint, etc.
All bags are subject to search; refusal may result in denied entry.
Will there be food available?
Yes, via food trucks in the Bourbon Capital Bites area.
Will there be water available?
Yes. Bring an empty reusable bottle or purchase beverages onsite.
Where is the Bourbon:30 Show located?
On the Main Stage; free to ticket holders.
Tickets & Wristbands
How does entry work?
- RFID wristbands are mailed before the event
- Required for entry with valid ID
- Wristbands are used for scanning into events
- Replacement fees may apply
- Do not put on early
- Cannot be removed once worn
- Lost/damaged = void
When will wristbands be shipped?
1–2 weeks before the festival. Do NOT put your wristband on until the festival!
What does My ticket include?
How do Premium Events work?
They are linked to your RFID wristband and scanned for entry.
What if I didn’t receive my wristband?
Visit Will Call with order info.
Are tickets refundable?
No. All sales are final.
Can I transfer tickets?
Yes, to another 21+ person via email coordination.
Can I update my shipping address?
Yes, via Tixr support email.
How do I assign names to tickets?
Through your Tixr account (must be completed by August 1, 2026).
Will tickets be sold at the gate?
Usually no; the event often sells out in advance.
How do I add Premium Events later?
Through the ticketing site using your Order ID as an access code.
What is in the VIP Tent?
Small bites and specialty drinks
Private restrooms
Hydration station
Bourbon storage lockers
Is General Admission still worthwhile?
Yes! Includes tastings, panels, music, vendors, and more.
Question
Transportation & Lodging
Where should I park?
Nearby cash lots and street parking within walking distance.
Is transportation available?
We offer a shuttle to and from downtown Louisville to the festival. You’ll be able to add on shuttle passes for each day through Tixr.
Where should I stay?
Vendors & Partnerships
How do I become a vendor?
How do I become a food vendor?
Do I need a ticket to shop the Marketplace?
No! Both the Marketplace and Bourbon Capital Bites areas are open to the public.
Other FAQ
What is the World Championship Bourbon Barrel Relay?
A public event where teams race to move 500-pound barrels.
Free and open to all ages
Location: To be announced
Time: Saturday, 10 AM – 2 PM
What is the Master Distillers’ Bottle Auction?
Location: Oscar Getz Museum (Spalding Hall)
More details to come.
No ticket required for auction or museum access (but required for festival grounds)
Are non-drinking tickets available?
No, but mocktails and other activities are available.
Is smoking allowed?
Only in designated areas.