At the Bourbon on the Banks Festival, bourbon is more than just a drink – each pour is about appreciating history and tradition, understanding the legacy and art of making bourbon, and bonding with friends.
The Bourbon on the Banks Festival is a premier bourbon event that takes place along 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. 7, 2023, from 1-6 p.m. Those attending the festival will be required to purchase a ticket for entry which includes an allotted number of drink vouchers for samples of libations from distilleries, breweries, and wineries present at the event. Attendees will be able to drink and learn about a variety of bourbons, enjoy a scenic stroll along the Kentucky River while listening to live music, taste offerings from a wide range of 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.
There is no fee to participate in the Bourbon on the Banks Festival. Distilleries should bring a tent, tables, and at least three types of products for guests to sample if possible. Creative displays are encouraged, and all setups must be approved by the event director prior to the festival. Volunteers will be available to assist with set up and break down. In support of marketing activities for the Bourbon on the Banks Festival, we do ask for participation in a cross-promotion collaboration.
FRANKFORT, Ky., Dec. 8, 2022 – Bourbon on the Banks Inc. will donate a portion of the proceeds raised from its fourth annual festival to support the Franklin County Community Fund and White Oak Initiative nonprofits and fund student scholarships.
The Franklin County Community Fund is affiliated with the Blue Grass Community Foundation, and Bourbon on the Banks Inc. will donate $25,000 to this nonprofit for improvements to River View Park in Frankfort which also serves as the event site for the festival. The White Oak Initiative is dedicated to the preservation and long-term sustainability of the white oak forests which are vital to the spirits industry as wood from white oak trees is commonly used to make barrels for aging bourbon and other American whiskeys. Bourbon on the Banks Inc. will donate $10,000 to the White Oak Initiative to support their efforts.
Bourbon on the Banks Inc. is also offering $15,000 in scholarships, up to $2,500 per individual, for those choosing to attend the Kentucky State University fermentation and distillation program and/or to qualified Franklin County residents wishing to attend other accredited, college-level distillation and fermentation science certification or degree programs. The online application and detailed information regarding the scholarship program are available on the Bourbon on the Banks website, and the deadline for submission is April 1, 2023.
“We are focused on promoting the advancement of the fermentation and distillation industry and supporting the economic and cultural development of our community, and these nonprofits and our scholarship program help with this mission,” Bourbon on the Banks Director Diane Strong said. “We are thrilled by the success of the 2022 festival and thankful for the opportunity to support such important causes.”
The Bourbon on the Banks Festival is a premier bourbon event in Frankfort and occurs annually on the first Saturday in October. The next Bourbon on the Banks Festival is scheduled for Oct. 7, 2023, and tickets are now available for purchase on the Bourbon on the Banks website.
Bourbon on the Banks Overview
Bourbon on the Banks Inc. is a private, non-profit, 501(c)(3) organization based in Frankfort. 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.
