Returning for its third year, the American Whiskey Festival, hosted by Watch Hill Proper, will take place in Louisville on Saturday, Aug. 16. 

Free and open to all ages, this event unites whiskey enthusiasts, wine aficionados, music lovers, families, foodies, and festival-goers for a full day of entertainment and exploration.

Attendees will experience:

• Live music from top regional acts
• A diverse vendor market featuring local artisans and brands
• Food trucks with delicious fare
• An outdoor cigar area for guests 21 and over
• The return of the fan-favorite Whiskey Garden
• The launch of the brand-new Wine Walk experience

More than 40 distilleries and wineries will offer tastings throughout the event, providing a unique opportunity to sample a wide range of Kentucky bourbons, American whiskeys, and fine wines, all in one location.

The 2025 music lineup features Tony & The Tanlines as the headliner and performances by Insatiable Digs, Bernhard, and The Bibelhauser Brothers.

Guests aged 21 and over can enhance their experience by purchasing tickets to one or both exclusive tasting experiences:

• Whiskey Garden: $50 – Unlimited pours from over 30 distilleries
• Wine Walk: $35 – Sip your way through a curated route of wineries
• Whiskey & Wine Pass: $75 – Enjoy both signature tasting experiences
• All-Inclusive VIP Experience: $250 – Includes Whiskey Garden & Wine Walk access, exclusive pours, specialty cocktails, food by Chef Michael Crouch, and private lounge access inside Watch Hill Proper

Since its debut, the American Whiskey Festival has drawn thousands to Norton Commons, where Watch Hill Proper continues to redefine what it means to enjoy and celebrate American whiskey. With over 2,200 expressions and a national reputation as one of the most comprehensive whiskey bars in the country, Watch Hill Proper invites everyone — from casual sippers to seasoned connoisseurs — to raise a glass to good taste, good company, and another remarkable year.

The event takes place 4-10 p.m. Tickets are available at whpfestival.com. 

Read more: Top 100 American Whiskeys of 2024 Ranked

‍About Watch Hill Proper Bourbon Bar & Kitchen

Watch Hill Proper is the world’s largest American Whiskey Bar. Located in Norton Commons, just northwest of downtown Louisville, it is also a dining destination celebrating American whiskey from around the country, notably Kentucky bourbons. The restaurant hosts public and private events, including bourbon and wine tastings, meet-and-greets with bourbon master distillers, and themed dinners. For more information, visit www.watchhillproper.