Tennessee Whiskey Festival in Chattanooga, TN

Ole Smokey whiskey is poured in a glass

Ole Smokey Moonshine will be 1 of 17 distillers offering tastings | Photo by Amy Fletcher Photography

A different kind of spirit is haunting Chattanooga this weekend.

The Tennessee Whiskey Festival, an annual event celebrating the state’s history of whiskey with local distillers + craft spirits, is coming to the Chattanooga Choo Choo this Sat., Oct. 23.

Since 2009, the whiskey business in Tennessee has exploded from 3 distilleries to 30 — meaning there’s no better time to learn your bourbons + ryes.

🥃 Gimme the deets.

Ticket sales start at 5 p.m. (or you can buy online, starting at $20). The event starts at 6 p.m. and will feature 18 distilleries, tasting booths, music, local craft beer + cash bars.

It will take place at the Chattanooga Choo Choo’s Glenn Miller Gardens.

🥃 How can I attend?

While spots last, there’s a few ways to buy in. All attendees must be 21+.

  • Designated Driver | If you don’t drink but want to enjoy the games + live music, the Designated Driver pass is for you.
  • General Admission | If you’re not huge on whiskey yourself, but want to try local craft beer + see what Tennessee’s distilleries are up to, this is the ticket.
  • Whiskey Pass | This ticket gets you your tasting glass + unlimited whiskey tastings. If you’re here for the whiskey, this pass will lift your spirits.
  • VIP Whiskey Lover | VIPs get early access at 5 p.m., exclusive tastings, as well as special amenities like parking + stage viewing. If you live and breathe mash, treat yourself.

Plus, if you’re eager to get started, you can get in on tonight’s Whiskey Supper.

🥃 Can I take a bottle home?

Since the Tennessee Whiskey Festival is a tasting event, the whiskey itself won’t be available for sale.

Luckily, the festival has this handy tasting guide so you can sip + savor like a pro.

More from NOOGAtoday
A look at UTC’s home games and why fans should cheer this season.
This festival is back for another year, showcasing 100+ short and feature films that depict adventure and conservation.
Jailhouse Studios would bring film and music production to downtown Chattanooga.
From outdoor adventures to local eats and attractions, the Scenic City scored big in 2025.
Whether you’re doing Dry January or just skipping the booze, these local spots have you covered.
Work begins on Phase 1 of the 2.6-mile Alton Park Connector.
From lifting weights, indoor rock climbing, personal training, dance fitness, boxing classes, and martial arts programs — we’ve rounded up 25+ gyms and fitness offerings around Chattanooga.
We compiled all of the feedback from our Giving Campaign to learn what readers love most and want to see more of in our newsletters. Here’s a peek at what they said.
Here’s what they’re hoping to accomplish in 2026.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.