(The following is an amalgam of an information release, web sites and my own words)
In February, Louisville will host the inagural Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction & Celebration, described as the beginning of a new Kentucky tradition — and also kicking off bourbon season (as of today, fewer than 100 days remain until the Kentucky Derby).
It’s a three-day event featuring Kentucky’s top distilleries, with bourbon lovers nationwide coming together for rare bourbon tastings, flavorful bourbon cuisine, and the world’s largest bourbon auction.
The dates are February 13–15, 2026. There are numerous events taking place over the course of these three days at multiple venues, including the Grand Tasting, Inaugural Auction, Saturday Brunch and Sunday Lunch.
You can participate in one or all of them, and tickets are on sale now at the website: The Kentucky Bourbon Auction and Celebration. The celebration benefits veterans, service members, their families, and caregivers through the work of the Bob Woodruff Foundation.
Note that Valentine’s Day falls on the 14th, and President’s Day is the 16th. Not only that, but 2026 is the 250th birthday of the United States. The Kentucky Bourbon Auction and Celebration is a way to honor them all.
Overview:
- Friday night, Feb. 13: The Grand Reveal Tasting at the Frazier History Museum
- Saturday, Feb. 14: The Blind Leading the Blind Bourbon Tasting and Brunch at Watch Hill Proper with Chef Michael Crouch
- Saturday night, Feb. 14: The Auction and Celebration at the Omni Louisville Hotel, a bucket-list moment for bourbon lovers, collectors, and anyone fascinated by rare spirits
- Sunday, Feb. 15: The Final Pour Lunch at River House with Chef John Varanese
For More Information:
- The auction preview: Whiskey Lineup | Collection of Rare & Collectible Bourbons.
- Learn more about the auction lots here.
- Read the launch release here.
- Buy tickets here, and if you plan to join friends, let us know. We’ll make sure you’re seated together (or, let us know if you want to buy a table together).
The post Three great days in bourbon: Kentucky Bourbon Country Auction and Celebration, Feb. 13 -15 appeared first on Food & Dining Magazine.
