Buzzard’s Roost Distillery and Tasting Room invites you to come in for a cheep buzz! Enjoy a pairing of two whiskeys for just $6 or try our featured cocktail for $10. Proceeds will benefit Queer Kentucky.

Buzzard’s Roost Hours:

Wed-Thurs 11:00-6:00

Fri-Sat 11:00--8:00

Sun 1:00-6:00

No reservations required.

$6

Explore a line up of Bardstown Bourbon Company’s first estate distilled grain-to-glass bourbons and rye. An immersive experience that pairs each variant with several tasting elements to enhance and pull out the flavors from the whiskey. You’ll amaze your senses when you taste Origin Wheated Bourbon Bottled-in-Bond, Origin Kentucky Straight Bourbon, and Origin Rye. *Must be 21 or older to attend experience.

$25

A guided tour through some of our private barrel selections. Whether you're new to bourbon or a veteran, this tasting is for you! Hosted by Lockbox's own Jake Parry, Jake will guide our guests through the profiles, technical information and differences between our private barrel selections versus their retail counterparts. There will be four, half ounce pours, of our selections and you will also be sent home with a tasting wheel to better understand what your palette is picking up!

$25

(Make it a double and grab tickets to the Phil Talks Whiskey Legends and Lore tasting happening after this event!)

The 1st bourbon-centric bar in the Cinci/NKY area, OKBB hosts over 900 bottles, award-winning cocktails and a dedication to a welcoming, inclusive personality!

October 2nd-6th, we're welcoming Bourbon & Belonging with a Reserve Bourbon Tasting, Festival Cocktails and sibling Mocktails! Come experience Bourbon Country the OKBB way!

FLIGHT: featuring OKBB Select Rossville Union Rye, "Barrel Pick of Destiny", Wild Turkey Master's Keep "Unforgotten", Booker's 2021-03, "Bardstown Batch".  Flight will be $40, Cocktails $13, Mocktail $9.

COCKTAILS:
"Covington is Burning" Rich demerara mint, bourbon, house raspberry liqueur
"OKBB Vieux Carre" High rye bourbon, brandy and vermouth with southern bitters

N/A COCKTAIL:
"Tea-a-Tete" House-made Orgeat, Darjeeling, fresh mint and raspberry

New Riff Distilling is honored to open our doors to help kick off Bourbon & Belonging.

Join us at our Aquifer Tasting Room, in raising a glass to inclusivity and community in bourbon culture!

Your ticket includes two drink tickets, light bites, toast with the Bourbon & Belonging New Riff Bourbon Single Barrel, and an opportunity to be one the first to purchase this one-of-a-kind release.

(Preorders are available at this link for pickup at the party. Use password “QueerKentucky”.)

Celebrate with us at this inaugural event that promises to blend exceptional spirits with a sense of belonging for all!

$35

Put on your most fabulous pink lewk and come walk the pink carpet into an unforgettable evening kicking off Bourbon & Belonging Week with Maker’s Mark at the House of Marigold! Enjoy delicious food and Maker’s Mark cocktails created by the House of Marigold team, including a Choose Your Own Adventure Old Fashioned Bar served in a special glass that’s yours to keep. There will be games, a Best Dressed contest, and performances by your multi-talented host for the evening, May O’Nays! You must be 21 year of age or older to purchase tickets and to attend the event.

$80

Hop Atomica is proud to partner with Louisville Tourism and Queer Kentucky to host the inaugural Bourbon & Belonging Kick-Off Reception for Louisville. Join us as we kick-off Bourbon & Belonging week in style with cocktails, beer, spirits, and best of all, bourbon!

Free

Brought to you by Phil Talks Whiskey, the nationally-known storytelling bourbon connoisseur!

Discover Kentucky’s whiskey legends while sipping four pours and hearing true tales of bandits, bootleggers, and their impact on the city!

Detailed Description: Explore Kentucky's most colorful whiskey characters and the larger-than-life stories that have shaped the past 200 years, all within the unique ambiance of the 21c Museum Hotel in Lexington. While enjoying four unique pours, we'll dive into fascinating (yet entirely true) tales of bandits, bootleggers, and the origins of early distilleries, and their lasting influence on Lexington's bourbon scene today. To complement the experience, savor delicious canapés and light appetizers from 21c's acclaimed Lockbox Restaurant.

- Johnny Drum Private Stock Bourbon
- Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel Bourbon
- Yellowstone 2022 Bourbon - 21c Selects "Greg's Way" Barrel Pick
- Rebel Cask Strength Bourbon -" 21c Selects" Barrel Pick
All guests will receive a Glencairn glass to take home along with a few other fun surprises!

About Phil Talks Whiskey:

Phil is your go-to guru for all things whiskey, diving deep into the world of bourbon tasting. From prepping your palate to exploring bourbon's fascinating history, he's got you covered. Get ready to decode those bourbon labels, shatter some whiskey myths, and unlock a whole new level of tasting with Phil! Cheers to elevating your whiskey game!

$35

(Make it a double and grab tickets to the 21c Select Tasting Experience happening prior to this event!)

Join Polytix at Mortimer Bibb's Public House for a great drag show and themed cocktails. Frankfort's first Irish pub and the place to be!

No Cover

Join us for a 45-minute Maturation Master Class led by Melissa Rift, our Master Taster, on our warehouse platform. Melissa will guide you through the maturation process and explain how our barrels develop. During the class, you will have the opportunity to sample distillate, three-year-old Old Forester, the 5th-anniversary 100-proof single barrel, and President's Choice. (Class sizes are limited.)

2 Class Options on Thursday 10/2/24: 11:30-12:30pm or 2:30-3:30pm

$75

Grab your friends and join us for an exciting team cocktail challenge! No experience necessary! Guests will be separated into groups of up to 6 people and given the task of creating a specific cocktail to the best of their ability in a timed session among other teams. The Bulleit bar team will host an instructional session to teach the basics of cocktail creation and how to use bar tools. Teams are judged on accuracy, flavor profile, and name creation! Gift bags are awarded to the winning team. Cocktails and snacks provided.

$50

Join us for an all-inclusive distillery tour and tasting and see every part of the whiskey production process! Experience the original history of Peerless before witnessing the bourbon and rye whiskey crafting from grain to bottle all under one roof. After, enjoy a complete whiskey tasting that includes distillery-only products.

FREE (But register to guarantee you have a seat!)

Welcome to all! We invite you to tour our distillery at a special Bourbon & Belonging price. Our BONDED tour offers a firsthand look through the nooks and crannies of our distillery and the Kentucky bourbon distilling process, from grain to barrel. We’ll explore fermentation, distillation, and barreling. Throughout the tour you'll experience a comprehensive tasting of a variety of spirits, including tastings of our award winning New Riff Bourbon and Single Barrel bourbon. The distillery tour lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. After the tour, each guest will receive a $10-off token for the gift shop that can be used on purchases of $25 or more. Token does not apply to select specialty bottles,

$15

Crafting a high-quality bourbon involves meticulous barrel selection and careful sensory evaluation. Join us for our first-ever Single Barrel Selection Experience at Elkwood Farm. During this event, you will have the exclusive opportunity to sample a variety of our finest barrels, gain insights into what distinguishes an extraordinary single barrel, and participate in selecting our next barrel to be featured in our gift shop. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in the craft of bourbon making and contribute to our legacy of exceptional spirits.

$50

Join the Copper & Kings Experience to see what makes us the most unique distillery in Bourbon Country. In celebration of Bourbon & Belonging, we are thrilled to offer exclusive booking access for this experience.

Guests will see the full production facility housing our beautiful copper pot stills and bottling line. We will also lead you through our Barrel Cellar where our spirits listen to curated music 24/7, creating a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation.

During this special week, we are proud to celebrate the vibrant and diverse LGBTQ+ community. Our educational tasting will feature four samples from our core portfolio of innovative spirits. We believe that Bourbon (& Brandy!) is for everyone, and we are honored to be a part of this historic event that champions belonging and the rich tapestry of Kentucky Queer lives. We're already looking forward to your visit.
Cheers to love, diversity, and exceptional spirits! 🏳️‍🌈🥃

This hour long experience is offered at 4pm and 5pm on Thursday, October 3rd and is a perfect segue to a dinner reservation at the Copper & Kings Rooftop Bar & Restaurant. Look for our Bourbon & Belonging dining experience to book a dinner reservation.

$25 + optional gratuity

Big thanks to James B Beam Distilling Co. for donating this special VIP tour! All proceeds benefit Queer Kentucky!

On this exclusive experience limited to just 30 people, you’ll be led by Legacy Ambassador, Emily Mann, on a VIP tour of the distillery. When the tour wraps you’ll join a few of Beam’s special guests for an Innovation tasting and small bites from The Kitchen Table.

$35

Welcome to Bourbon & Smoke at The Standard!

Join us on Thursday, October 3rd from 5-7pm or 7-9pm at the head of Covington's historic Mainstrasse Village for a night of delicious bourbon, incredible guests, and a great company of like-paletted bourbon lovers.

Each ticket includes nine different bourbon tastings and a buffet of house-smoked meats with bourbon glaze. Mingle with Caleb Trigo, Assistant Master Distiller at Old Forester, Melissa Rift, Master Taster at Old Forester, and fellow bourbon enthusiasts in a welcoming atmosphere.

Guests will explore some of Brown Forman's finest featuring Old Forester's famous Whiskey Row Collection (1870, 1897, 1910, 1920 & 1924) and Heaven Hill, Whiskey Magazine's 2023 Distiller of the Year, (Heaven Hill Bottle-in-Bond, Elijah Craig, Henry McKenna 10yr & Widow Jane Applewood Rye).

Our full bar will also be available for purchase with drink features from Old Forester & Heaven Hill. A portion of all proceeds go directly to Queer Kentucky.

$35

During this unique 75-minute experience in Lexington KY, you will not only get a behind the scenes tour of our facilities and taste our premium products, you will also get the chance to bottle-your-own single barrel bourbon! Tickets are $100 per person, and your personalized bottle gets to go home with you.

The one hour and 15-minute duration includes time for the guided tasting and bottle-your-own portions of this experience.

All participants must be 21 years of age or older, and children/infants are not permitted.

You will have the opportunity to fill ONE (1) Bottle Your Own Bourbon bottle per person. A valid driver’s license is required for all alcohol purchases.

Finally, please plan accordingly and do not expose your bottle to extreme temperatures after departing our Visitor Center.

$100

To Book Your Spot: Email tours@jamesepepper.com

Rooftop Bar & Restaurant: Bourbon & Belonging Exclusive Dining Experience

At Copper & Kings, we like to tell a story that starts in the sonic maturation cellar, travels through the distillery into the Art Gallery, and ends on the Rooftop. In honor of "Bourbon & Belonging: Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week," the first LGBTQ+ inclusive Bourbon festival in the country, we are excited to offer a unique dining experience that celebrates love, diversity, and the vibrant spirit of the LGBTQ+ community in Kentucky.

Chef Joshua Lehman consistently utilizes our brandies, gins, and absinthes in his carefully curated menu, and for this special event, he will craft exclusive features that highlight the vibrant flavors and innovative spirit of our distillery. Our bar team, known for their creativity and expertise, will feature specialty cocktails and mocktails made with products created right here on site.

This dining experience will be reservable in advance of standard rooftop reservations, ensuring Bourbon & Belonging guests have the opportunity to partake in this celebratory evening. From barrel to bottle, from bottle to bar and kitchen, from us to you: we hope you have an exceptional experience and add your story to ours.

Cheers to love, diversity, and exceptional dining! 🏳️‍🌈🥂

This experience is bookable from 5pm-8:30pm on Thursday, October 3rd. Join us for our Bourbon & Belonging distillery tour directly before a dinner reservation!

The Rooftop Bar & Restaurant is located on the third floor of Copper & Kings American Brandy Distillery. Enter through the courtyard or walkway to the right, enter the distillery, then take the elevator or stairs on your right up to the third floor.

Menu items range from $10 - $55

Spirited Women presents The Business of Bourbon & Belonging

Join us for a guided bourton tasting and talk featuring Rawnica Dillingham, Chief Sales Officer, New Riff Distilling. Rawnica will dive into Bourbon history (with a special focus on NKY), discuss the business behind the barrels, and guide participants through a few of her favorite tastes.

Ticket price includes tastes, welcoming cocktail, light bites, and the discussion.

Followed by an optional Captain’s Dinner Bourbon Pairing Dinner.

5:30-6 p.m.

Welcome Cocktail & Networking

Enjoy a New Riff cocktail from Catherine Manabat, Hospitality Manager, New Riff Distilling while you network with other spirited women!

6-7 p.m.

Guided Bourbon Tasting & Talk

Rawnica Dillingham, Chief Sales Officer, New Riff Distilling, will share the history of bourbon in the Commonwealth as we serve New Riff bourbon tastings and light bites!

Rawnica will chat with Missy Spears, Executive Director, Queer Kentucky, a nonprofit focused on uplifting LGBTQ+ lives through storytelling, culture, and action; and Women of the Metropolitan Spirited Women co-chairs, Jamila Watson, and Dr. Kimberly Luse and Sarah Otte Graber.

7-10 p.m.

Captain’s Table Dinner with New Riff Distilling Pairings

Want to extend your experience? Reserve a seat and enjoy a carefully curated, four-course dinner paired with New Riff Bourbon selections and descriptions with Rawnica Dillingham and Metropolitan Chef David Gajus. Only 15 now 7 seats left

Event: $25 Members/$35 Non-Members

Dinner: $75 members/$100 Non-Members

Come out with us and explore the queer stories of Louisville’s past and present as you eat and drink your way down Bardstown Road, Louisville’s gay epicenter! As you stroll through the lush avenues of historic Cherokee Triangle, you’ll taste classic Kentucky bites such as fried chicken, spoonbread, and shrimp and grits paired with a selection of bourbon cocktails. Along the way, you’ll uncover the diverse history of Kentucky’s Queer folx, from a Black Prohibition-era drag queen to poets, authors, and activists that paved the way for Kentucky’s Queer community. Note: this tour ends at Chill Bar for the after party.

$169 + tax

Born & bred in the wilds of eastern Kentucky, the Tinderbox Circus Sideshow is a mix of vaudeville debauchery, classic carnival sideshow, & circus tradition. An all-American classic circus sideshow, combining timeless acts of shock and amazement with a punk rock presentation, and a dirty south attitude. The result is a uniquely modern experience; unlike anything else in today's entertainment industry!

For the first time since 2019, Tinderbox Circus Sideshow is bringing their FULL SHOW back to their hometown of Lexington, Kentucky for an evening of chills, thrills, and maybe even some spills (but not of that bourbon!)

$15

Hotel Covington and Coppin’s present a curated, contemporary art and cocktail experience. Led by our master mixologist Scott Sargent, guests will explore the unique profile of one of our private barrel selections while learning about the newest trends in bourbon cocktail making. Whether you are new to bourbon cocktails or a seasoned enthusiast, this event is tailored for you. Enjoy a complimentary cocktail in a limited-edition rocks glass while sampling some of our chef’s creations at the Coppin’s walk-up window. The event, taking place in the stunning courtyard at Hotel Covington, will feature a private, contemporary art show in the newly renovated alley between our two beautiful hotel accommodations. Proceeds from the event, retail shop sales, and art purchases will benefit Queer Kentucky. We invite you to join us and see why Coppin’s is both a premiere stop on Northern Kentucky’s B-line and a place where "Y'all Means All".

$25

In celebration of Bourbon & Belonging, we have partnered with The Manchester Hotel for a Skewers & Bourbon Pairing. Starting with 3 of our house barrel picks, we collaborated with Chef Juan Rivera to curate 3 unique skewers that compliment the flavor profile of each bourbon. This paleo-inspired pairing includes 4 types of proteins: chicken, elk, beef & shrimp. The seasonings & marinades enhance the pairings, and are designed to enhance the character of each bourbon.

Dark Arts 10-year Armagnac-finished Bourbon & Chicken:
- coconut milk, lemongrass/tarragon, green onion (mildly sweet & cooling), hint of licorice

Makers Mark PBC x Manchester Bourbon & Elk Medallions:
- coca cola & semi-sweet hoisin marinade

Jefferson's Ocean Wheated Bourbon & Surf'n'Turf:
- beef & shrimp skewer, white wine & butter/rosemary

(Get ready for a full day of Paducah events! Check out the calendar for more fun!)

$50

Join the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience for a night of true Kentucky Hospitality! Enjoy tastings of our award-winning Bourbon while you tour the exhibits and distillery, dance to live bluegrass music, and feast on local barbeque as we celebrate Bourbon and Belonging! Ticket includes heavy appetizers, a cocktail and garnish bar, music, and more!

$40

Welcome to Bourbon City! Kick off a weekend of Bourbon & Belonging fun with complimentary Bourbon tastings at our newly renovated Louisville Visitor Center. Enjoy a taste of Louisville and our Southern hospitality as soon as you arrive!

Must be 21+ or older for the tasting. ID required. There is no cost to participate.

Free

What do you call a 90-minute experience that has absolutely everything? The Whole Shebang! Step into the world of Pursuit Spirits for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience that will be the highlight of your trip. You won't get an opportunity like this anywhere else, guaranteed. Taste through multiple expressions, take part in a single barrel selection process, and then fill your own Pursuit United Private Select bottle. Plus, you get a fancy $15 tasting glass included! 

We'll dive right in with the history of Pursuit Spirits and how our whiskey is shaking up the industry. We’ll save you from the same regurgitated tour talk and focus on how barrel maturation and blending are the real stars of the show. You will try our award-winning small-batch whiskeys and learn about the multiple mash bills, blending processes, and flavor profiles that make each expression unique.

Something typically only reserved for the whiskey elite, Pursuit Spirits is bringing this bucket-list item to you. You get the exclusive opportunity to take part in your own personal barrel selection. You will taste multiple Pursuit United Private Select bourbon and rye whiskeys and choose your favorite. There are no levers to pull here! Grab a whiskey thief and fill your bottle the old-fashioned way by hand. Then head over to the bottling line to cork, label, and seal it as a one-of-a-kind souvenir. The bottle is included in your ticket price.

Don't miss this rare chance to have a personal barrel selection plus filling your own Pursuit United Private Select. A one-of-a-kind experience that is certainly going to be the highlight of your trip and an everlasting memory.

$200

Join us for a Fall Garden Party, celebrating the flavors of the season. Unwind and experience the Old Forester Distillery while savoring craft cocktails and taking in scenic views of the Ohio River from the rooftop terrace.

Enjoy hors d'oeurves, seasonal cocktails and live music!

Free to attend but reservations highly recommended.

Donations are welcome!

Pair Bourbon & bites in Louisville's trendy NuLu neighborhood

Explore the taste, history, and impact of bourbon on the world’s only walking bourbon food tour. Experience bourbon like never before through expertly paired bites and cocktails that highlight the versatility of Kentucky’s beloved amber spirit.

As you explore the vibrant NuLu neighborhood, you’ll discover hidden speakeasies, rooftop terraces, and cozy tasting rooms. This guided tour is both a fantastic introduction to bourbon for the uninitiated, and a master class in bourbon and food pairing for experienced aficionados. Book your tour now and uncover the secrets of Kentucky bourbon!

$169 + tax

As part of our WHSKY NRD class series join us for an intimate tasting experience called Water To Whiskey at a special discounted Bourbon & Belonging price. Join Brand Ambassador Grover Arnold as he leads an intimate tasting and storytelling experience of how we get from Water To Whiskey. This guided tasting weaves the story of our alluvial Aquifer, and how our unique water source creates the foundation for our award-winning whiskies. Use promo code BELONGING24 when booking to get $15 off this class!

$40 with promo code BELONGING24

Join friends at Sig Luscher Brewery for special Pride-themed slushie drinks and Stormin' Rockwell on stage!

No Cover

Brought to you by Phil Talks Whiskey, the nationally-known storytelling bourbon connoisseur!

Get ready for an epic and memorable night on Friday, October 4th of top-shelf sippers...and colorful stories behind each pour!

We're featuring rare, high-end, and import-only bourbons, plus vintage bottles not seen on shelves for years. Whether you're new to bourbon or a seasoned sipper, this is your chance to taste whiskeys you've never had before—and may never have the chance to try again! Phil Kollin from Phil Talks Whiskey will lead the tasting, sharing stories behind each bottle. Enjoy four bourbon pours, bourbon chocolates, hors d'oeuvres, and a souvenir glass to take home. We encourage you to dress your most spectacular for a chance to win the "Most Sophisticated Sipper" Award!

We invite you to join us for an extraordinary evening of high-end whiskey sips and unforgettable stories! All part of the inaugural Bourbon & Belonging Festival.

About Phil Talks Whiskey:

Phil is your go-to guru for all things whiskey, diving deep into the world of bourbon tasting. From prepping your palate to exploring bourbon's fascinating history, he's got you covered. Get ready to decode those bourbon labels, shatter some whiskey myths, and unlock a whole new level of tasting with Phil! Cheers to elevating your whiskey game!

$100

15% off all tickets with promo code EARLYBIRD15 before 7/27

Step back into the twenties and experience Gays & Dolls: A Queer Prohibition Party with Queer Kentucky and Midwestern Lesbian! 

Featuring drinks by Northern Row Distilling, performances by Lola Vuitton, Manuka Honey Stix-Chimera, and Delusiona Grandeur, and Music by DJ Boywife! 

Want to elevate your experience? 

VIP tickets also include a drink ticket, Queer Kentucky merch (including their "My Olde Kentucky Homo" tote bag and a copy of The Queer Kentucky Magazine Bourbon issue), some Midwestern Lesbian goodies, and more!

Grab your tickets fast before they sell out!

$10 (sliding scale)-$50

Join OUT and Angle’s Envy for a massive Bourbon and Belonging bash featuring Shannel, Sasha Grant, and Joey with a Moustache! Join us at Number 15, Whiskey Row’s top music venue, on October 4th.

FREE (Register to guarantee entry.)

Spend your morning with us at Maker’s Mark Distillery, located on Star Hill Farm in Loretto, Ky. Get your day started right with a beginner-friendly guided Yoga class overlooking our lake that is used to make our bourbon. Mats and water will be provided for you and the Maker’s mat is yours to keep! The class will wrap up with an energizing, fresh-squeezed juice and a meal prepared using many ingredients grown on Star Hill Farm. Finish by exploring our Historic-landmark Distillery on an intimate guided tour, complete with a tasting and dipping your very own bottle of Maker’s Mark into our signature red wax to take home with you. 100% of ticket sales will benefit Queer Kentucky. You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase and attend this event.

$100

Join us for our ONE-DAY ONLY adventure exclusively crafted for “Bourbon & Belonging: Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week” You will visit Lux Row for an exclusive tour & tasting, a local lunch, Connoisseur Tasting at Heaven Hill and end your day with our exclusive hands on mixology at Log Still. Depart from the Omni Louisville 9:45am-6:30pm EST

$299

Join us at The Pour Room to celebrate diversity and acceptance. This will be an hour full of fun, love, and creativity! You are able to make a candle or a cologne, with a customized label included for your candle or spray. We will also have a special bourbon cocktail available for you to purchase.

Please be on time as we book new parties every hour on the hour!

(Get ready for a full day of Paducah events! Check out the calendar for more fun!)

$20-$70

✨ BurLEX, a proudly queer-run organization, is delighted to partner with Queer Kentucky and Bourbon & Belonging to present a fabulous burlesque brunch on OCTOBER 5TH at Old North Bar! Join us for a morning filled with dazzling performances, delicious brunch delights, and the vibrant energy of our LGBTQ+ community. Celebrate the rich diversity and incredible talent that make our shows truly unique. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to burlesque, this brunch event is one you won't want to miss. Come indulge in a spectacular morning of glamour, glitter, and great company at Old North Bar! ✨

$15

Grab your group and book your experience with the award-winning Wenzel Whiskey.

Swing on in with a friend or five and take on the job of Master Blender.  You will try four different barrel proof samples from different distilleries from around the region.  From there, you will be tasked with creating your own unique blend of bourbon! Each person will leave with their own personally blended bottle along with a Bourbon & Belonging label. Additional stickers will be available to decorate your own bottle.

$120

Join a panel discussion surrounding the importance of Queer storytelling in the south and flyover states. This conversation will be facilitated by Lindsey Cummins and Ellie Bruner of Printed Zine, and will include creatives Ryan Fitzgibbon (A Great Gay Book), Spencer Jenkins (Queer Kentucky), Sirene Martin (Artist and Storyteller) at Bar Genevieve at Hotel Genevieve.

Ryan Fitzgibbon is the founder of the magazine hello mr. and author of the newly released book, A Great Gay Book, Stories of Growth Belonging and Other Queer Possibilities. 

Spencer Jenkins is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Queer Kentucky, the LGBTQ+ run magazine that served as the catalyst for Bourbon and Belonging. 

Sirene Martin is a multimedia artist hailing from south central Kentucky. She holds a Bachelors of Arts in Pan-African Studies from the University of Louisville with an emphasis in Gender and Sexuality studies. In her art, Sirene seeks to be in conversation with the ancestral spirits that hold her. These conversation acts as a portal as she travels into the creative space to conjure worlds and realities that are often refused to her in the material world as a Black Transgender Woman. As a Hoodoosaint, she is a historian and archivist. Recording and caring for the stories of her ancestors, her art elevates the rich Root culture and religions of the Black folks that made Kentucky their home.

Queer Kentucky is a diverse LGBTQ+ run non-profit founded in Louisville, Kentucky working to bolster and enhance Queer culture and health through storytelling, education and action. Through our storytelling approach, we give visibility and celebrate the lives of LGBTQ+ people in the great Bluegrass State. Visibility alone is life-saving.

$10-$250

Want to take home a piece of Bourbon and Belonging art that you help create? Join Kat and Andy at Messy Cat Creations to learn how to make a travel notebook and have fun making the cover for your own book. The cost of the workshop is $10 and you get to take home the book you help create.

(Get ready for a full day of Paducah events! Check out the calendar for more fun!)

$10

Lux Row Distillers is proud to support Bourbon & Belonging, the first LGBTQ+ inclusive Bourbon festival in the country. We join Kentucky Tourism and the Kentucky Distillers' Association in celebration. During our featured experience, led by one of our in-house Cocktail Specialists, guests will craft two cocktails from scratch using fresh ingredients, essential tools, and top-notch bourbons. At the end, you'll get to take your own cocktail glass, along with new skills and techniques, home with you!

$50.00

Join us as we welcome Bowling Green author Clint Waters to Paducah! He is a self-published author of science fiction and fantasy books. With his Creative Writing degree and obsession with bugs Clint has a certain zeal not to be missed. He will be reading from Do I Terrify? and (UN)Bury Your Gays and there will be drinks!

(Get ready for a full day of Paducah events! Check out the calendar for more fun!)

FREE

Join us on for a very special tour of our West Newport Whiskey Campus, which is a chance to visit the New Riff distillery “back of house.” at a special Bourbon & Belonging price. Walk through our barrel warehouse, take in the angels’ share, see the turn of the century architecture home to our bottling hall and tasting rooms and most importantly, experience tastings of New Riff Kentucky Bourbon directly from a barrel. Your ticket includes the tour and samples. Located at West Newport Warehouse Campus.

$20

Join Maritime Pride, the nonprofit organization supporting LGBTQ+ employees and allies in the maritime industry, for a bourbon tasting hosted by southern Illinois drag queen Kailey Santana!

(Get ready for a full day of Paducah events! Check out the calendar for more fun!)

FREE

Revival Vintage Spirits and Old Forester's Bourbon and Belonging Collaboration

Come join us to share in Revival and Old Forester's release of their premier collaborative, barrel strength pick at Revival's new location at 614 Madison Avenue in Covington! We will have our barrel pick for sale on the bar for pours alongside an Old Forester VINTAGE counter part!

At the event will be Old Forester (OF) Master Taster Melissa Rift along with our Revival team for bottle signing.

Ticket price includes your OF pick, signing, branded spey drams, swag from the businesses, discounts, and more!

A portion of the proceeds from this event will be donated to our local NKY Pride center.

Whether you're a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of whiskey, this event is sure to be a memorable experience. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to sip, socialize, and savor the moment with us!

*ID required for any pick up. Must be 21 +

$99

The Bourbon Capital Alliance and five of our amazing partner distilleries are proud to host a VIP tasting experience and brand education for the Bourbon & Belonging crowd! Held in the luxurious Brindiamo Penthouse in historic Spalding Hall in downtown Bardstown, our guests will sample 9 premium bourbons from:

1. Log Still Distillery

2. Bardstown Bourbon Co.

3. Preservation Distillery

4. Old SteelHouse Distillery

5. James B. Beam Distilling Co.

Our guests will leave with multiple parting gifts, including (but not limited to) the following:

• Custom tasting mat designed just for this experience

• Bourbon Capital Distillers map

• Bourbon Capital Academy Field Guide

• Discount code for future Bourbon Capital Academy experience

• Distillery gifts

• and more...

Tickets for this experience are limited! Our classroom sits 24. Reserve your seats soon. Cheers!

Cost: $100

In celebration of Bourbon & Belonging (as well as the 10 year anniversary of Bricolage) we invite you to a block party full of live music, drag performances, comedy, singing and more! There will be drinks available for purchase as well as vendors and activities!!

(Get ready for a full day of Paducah events! Check out the calendar for more fun!)

FREE (but bring some $ for tips and drinks!)

Brought to you by Phil Talks Whiskey, the nationally-known storytelling bourbon connoisseur!

Join us for a journey of Kentucky Bourbon as we taste through pours of America's Native Spirit and share some legends and lore behinds each sip! We invite you to join us for an extraordinary evening of high-end whiskey sips and unforgettable stories! All are part of the inaugural Bourbon & Belonging Festival.

Paducah is doing a full day of activities! See them all here!

About Phil Talks Whiskey:

Phil is your go-to guru for all things whiskey, diving deep into the world of bourbon tasting. From prepping your palate to exploring bourbon's fascinating history, he's got you covered. Get ready to decode those bourbon labels, shatter some whiskey myths, and unlock a whole new level of tasting with Phil! Cheers to elevating your whiskey game!

$35

Join us on October 5th for a Bourbon & Whiskey tasting with Shawn McCormick of B.H. James Distillers, Kentucky’s only gay-owned distillery. Guests will be guided through a tasting of 4 to 5 bottlings of Burton James Uniquely American Whiskey and Kentucky Grit Whiskey, with light bites available. Afterward, guests will have the opportunity to purchase bottles at the Globe and have Shawn sign them!

Hosted by The Clemons Team @Coldwell Banker Realty.

$30

Come and let your creative side shine as you “Make Your Mark!” on your very own bottle of Maker’s Mark! Your hostess, teacher, and entertainer for the evening is the fabulous May O’Nays! We’ll kick things off with a tasting of various offerings from Maker’s Mark. Next, you will learn all about gel printing from Professor O’Nays before creating a label for your special bottle of Maker’s! Next, it’s time to craft your own cocktail, enjoy some charcuterie and performances, and even have the chance to win some prizes, all while supporting two great causes! 100% of ticket sales will benefit Queer Kentucky and LexArts. You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase and attend this event.

$65

New Riff Distilling opens its doors for a memorable tour experience of our distillery at a special Bourbon & Belonging price. Our BONDED tour offers a firsthand look through the nooks and crannies of our distillery and the Kentucky bourbon distilling process, from grain to barrel. We’ll explore fermentation, distillation, and barreling. Throughout the tour path you'll experience comprehensive tasting of a variety of spirits, including tastings of our award winning New Riff Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon and Single Barrel bourbon. The distillery tour lasts between 45 and 60 minutes.

$15

Your hosts for Lex Lez Night are coming together for Bourbon & Belonging: Kentuckys Queer Bourbon Week! On Saturday, October 5th starting at 6:00 pm, start at Sidebar Grill for food specials by Chef Kelly. Hop over to Lussi Brown until 10:00 pm for mingling and bourbon drink specials by KC. Then head over to Crossings Lex for fun and pool.

FREE

Cin City Burlesque presents The Shimmy Showcase and Giggle Water a burlesque revue at Juniper's gin & tapas bar on Satuday Oct 5th. located in historic MainStrasse Village in Covington, KY. Hosted by Sweet Biscuit this quarterly show will include The Shimmy Showcase ($5 seperate ticket) featuring the graduates of the Cin City Burlesque Academy in their first perforamce in front of a live audience. After a short intermission (7:45 to 8:15ish) Cin City Burlesque presents Giggle Water begins, featuring Ginger LeSnapps, Alexander Cameron, Mynx West, Jawn Doe and Ms. T. Blue's will kick off.

$20 advance ticket purchase highly recommended

$25 day of at the door. Seating begins at 7:45 pm, revue starts promptly at 8:00pm.

$5 tickets to the Shimmy Showcase will be available for both advance and door purchase.

Purchase tickets by selecting seats on map. Please note Obstructed view tickets are seats that have a slightly obstructed view of the performance area. 21 and Up

✨ BurLEX, a proudly queer-run organization, is thrilled to partner with Queer Kentucky to present a spectacular queer burlesque event on OCTOBER 5TH at The Green Lantern! Join us in celebrating the vibrant diversity of our LGBTQ+ community with dazzling performances that will light up the night. Experience the glamour, the glitter, and the incredible talent that make our shows truly spectacular. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to burlesque, this is a night you won't want to miss. Come be part of the magic and support our fabulous community at The Green Lantern! ✨

$15

Award-winning songwriter Melody Walker brings a curated round of LGBTQ+ artists for a night of songs and the stories behind them. Walker is a songwriter, producer, performer and fervent believer that songs can change the world. Best known for her writing with Molly Tuttle, Sierra Ferrell, Della Mae and her own band Front Country, Melody's post-pandemic recalibration has found her rooting down in her home community of East Nashville, co-writing with her talented neighbors and hosting her weekly writers' round, Writers' Kitchen. Her blend of Americana and Pop has won her accolades from Merlefest to Telluride and now the GRAMMYs with co-writes on Molly Tuttle's two GRAMMY-winning albums, including IBMA Song of the Year "Crooked Tree". Recent years have found Walker releasing her first solo music in a decade, stepping into her own as a songwriter and artist and finding magic in queer collaboration

(Get ready for a full day of Paducah events! Check out the calendar for more fun!)

$10 Suggested Donation

Bespoken Spirits and Old North Bar are teaming up to bring you an unforgettable brunch experience at the Greyline Station. Get ready to sip on expertly crafted cocktails and savor delicious brunch dishes while being dazzled by some of the most talented drag queens in town!

$10

Get ready to dive into a day of fierce fun and fabulous festival, "Dive, Dine & Drag Extravaganza," the ultimate Drag Brunch and Pool Party event held at Paseo Restaurant and Myriad Swim Club on Sunday, October 6, 2024.

Hosted by The Myriad Hotel, in partnership with Bourbon and Belonging, a state-wide LGBTQ+ inclusive event dubbed "Kentucky's Queer Bourbon Week." As the finale event, it promises an unforgettable experience filled with vibrant energy, captivating performances, and delicious cuisine.

Event Highlights
• Indoor and Outdoor DJ: Dance to the beats of fantastic DJs, creating an electrifying atmosphere both inside and out.
• Spectacular Drag Show: Be dazzled by a fabulous drag performance that will make this party unforgettable.
• Special Brunch at Paseo: Enjoy a delectable two-course brunch with two seating options:
o First Seating: Doors open at 10:00 AM, brunch from 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM.
o Second Seating: Doors open at 12:00 PM, brunch from 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM.
o Choose from two starters and three main courses, including coffee and tea. Beverages available à la carte.

Ticket Information
• Brunch Tickets: $75.00 per person and includes access to the pool party.
• Pool Party Only Tickets: $25.00 per person. A limited number is available at the door for those wanting to join just for the splashy fun.

Join us at Hop Atomica for a fun and inspiring Drag Brunch on our beautiful Biergarten and Patio! Enjoy cocktails and bourbon pours, mimosas and mimosa flights, all while experiencing amazing performances! Enjoy a special Pride Buffet featuring our fresh wood-fired pizzas and apps or feast on your favorite brunch special!

$35-$45

Shake, Stir, & Sip Like A Pro! We invite you to experience an immersive cocktail creation course led by a mixology guru! At Liquor Lab, we provide our guests with a hands-on cocktail learning experience. Using only the freshest ingredients, our premium cocktails are designed to inspire and indulge! Libations aren't your thing? We offer incredible Mocktails! There's a cocktail for anyone at Liquor Lab. Try your hand at mixology by taking part in our hands-on alchemy class. Incredible libations, groovy music, belly laughs and yummy charcuterie are all included -We only ask that you leave your worries at the door. Cheers, friends!

$65

We are kicking off brunch here on the rooftop in style! Join us for an unforgettable celebration of community with a dazzling Drag Brunch. Enjoy our inaugural brunch buffet, refreshing bourbon cocktails, mocktails, and an atmosphere of love and belonging.

Don't miss out on this vibrant event where you can connect, celebrate, and be yourself. Whether you're here for the drag, the drinks, or the delightful company, there's something for everyone. So, grab your friends, wear your brightest colors, and join us for brunch like no other!

$50 (And bring singles to tip!)

Join us at Lost Palm Rooftop for a bourbon dinner in collaboration with Bluegrass Distillers. A delicious menu with cuisine from Granddam will be paired with fantastic bourbons including some special offerings chosen just for this event — including The Manchester's own barrel pick from Bluegrass Distillers. Mingle, eat & drink, and celebrate Bourbon & Belonging!

*Twenty-one & up. Deadline to cancel is 48 hrs prior to event start time.

$85