Bourbon & Beyond 2026: dates, lineup, tickets

From September 24–27, 2026, Louisville turns up the volume and raises a glass as Bourbon & Beyond returns to the Kentucky Expo Center. Known as “The World’s Largest Bourbon, Food, & Music Festival,” this four-day celebration blends major headliners, serious whiskey credentials, and a food scene that reflects the best of Kentucky and beyond.

Four Days, Four Massive Lineups

Thursday, September 24
The festival kicks off with arena-sized energy as Foo Fighters headline, joined by Queens of the Stone Age, The War on Drugs, and Goose.

Friday, September 25
Folk and indie take center stage with Mumford & Sons and Kacey Musgraves, alongside Foster the People and Of Monsters and Men.

Saturday, September 26
A Kentucky favorite, Chris Stapleton leads a bill that also features The Red Clay Strays, Jessie Murph, and Jason Isbell.

Sunday, September 27
The weekend closes with anthems from Dave Matthews Band, plus Hootie & the Blowfish and Counting Crows.

Over four days, more than 100 artists perform across multiple stages, so you can wander the venue, try all the exciting activities the festival has to offer, and experience the best live musical performances.

Beyond the Music: Bourbon & Culinary Culture

Music may draw the crowds, but bourbon defines the experience. Tasting sessions, curated cocktails, and hands-on culinary presentations run throughout the weekend.

In 2026, the revitalized Fork & Flask curated by Kroger adds new momentum to the spirits and food programming. Expect bold spirit-and-food pairings, unexpected flavour combinations, and a showcase of Louisville’s evolving restaurant and bar scene. Local institutions, creative speakeasies, and emerging chefs come together in an immersive, high-energy space designed to celebrate the city’s next wave of talent.

And yes, the thrills of Kentucky Kingdom theme park are right next door if you fancy swapping a guitar solo for a rollercoaster.

Tickets & VIP Experiences

Single-day, weekend, and VIP passes are on sale now, with prices typically rising closer to September.

Single-Day General Admission from $164

4-Day General Admission from $391

4-Day Mint VIP from $829

4-Day Angel’s Envy Beyond VIP from $2,249

4-Day Exacta Pass (includes Bourbon & Beyond and Louder Than Life) from $660

Four-day and single GA passes are available starting at $1 down using layaway.

Mint VIP includes special viewing areas at the main stages, dedicated bars and merchandise stands, and upgraded food offerings. The Beyond VIP four-day pass takes it further with a viewing area directly in front of the main stage, complimentary Wi-Fi, and all-inclusive beer and wine within the VIP area.

If your ideal festival combines guitar riffs, small-batch pours, and chef-driven bites, Bourbon & Beyond 2026 delivers it at full volume.