Too often, those who identify as LGBTQ+ have been left without this feeling of acceptance and inclusion.  But this October, a new sense of belonging will bloom across Kentucky, with the catalyst being the commonwealth’s signature beverage.

     The inaugural ‘Bourbon and Belonging’ Festival will take place over five days (October 2-6) across eight cities.  It will help dispel the notion that bourbon is predominantly a drink for straight white men.  This will be done through a curated range of experiences from rare tastings and tours to drag brunches and dance parties.

     Bardstown Tourism is proud to join its sister bureaus in Louisville, Lexington, Frankfort, Winchester, Northern Kentucky, Paducah and Bullitt County as one of the eight host cities.

     Stacey Phelps, President of Visit Bardstown, says that as the Bourbon Capital of the World, Bardstown prides itself not just on its rich history and exceptional spirits, but also on its commitment to inclusivity and hospitality.

     “Bardstown is honored to be a part of ‘Bourbon and Belonging,’ the first LGBTQ+ festival in the country,” says Phelps.

     “This groundbreaking festival is a celebration of community, and we are excited to share our home with everyone who embraces the spirit of togetherness that ‘Bourbon and Belonging’ embodies,” she adds.

     Bardstown’s lineup of events takes place on Saturday, October 5th, and will feature three unique experiences.

     First up will be Morning Yoga at Maker’s Mark Distillery from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.  Come find your inner chi at a beginner-friendly guided yoga session overlooking the same lake whose contents go into making the distillery’s award-winning bourbon.

     Guests’ after-class activities will feature a guided tour of the Historic Landmark distillery complete with a tasting and the opportunity to dip their own bottle of Maker’s Mark into the signature red wax for taking home.

     Following the morning at Maker’s, Lux Row Distillers will offer a mixology course, limited to 12 participants, at the distillery from 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

      Under the expert tutelage of the Lux Row in-house Cocktail Specialists, guests will craft two cocktails from scratch using fresh ingredients and top shelf bourbons.

   Phelps gives kudos to Queer Kentucky, Visit Bardstown and all the participating partners for “bringing this new bourbon festival to life this fall.”

     So, this October, come join in the spirit of inclusivity, as Bardstown joins cities across the commonwealth in welcoming Kentucky’s newest bourbon festival.