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.

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