Following a
groundbreaking and widely celebrated inaugural year, the second annual event
will once again shine a spotlight on Kentucky’s signature spirit through the
lens of inclusion, culture, and community.
Bourbon & Belonging is a statewide
celebration designed to welcome LGBTQ+ Kentuckians and visitors alike into
bourbon spaces and hospitality experiences across the Commonwealth. The 2024
event was a resounding success, welcoming visitors from across the globe while
generating wide media attention and community enthusiasm across 60 events, 8
cities, and an overall campaign that reached over 6 million people worldwide.
This year’s event builds on that momentum
with a weekend full of curated events, distillery experiences, queer
performances, and culinary offerings in cities across the state. Returning host
regions include Louisville, Lexington, Northern Kentucky, and Paducah.
“We are beyond proud to bring Bourbon
& Belonging back for a second year,” said Missy Spears, Executive Director
of Queer Kentucky. “It’s more than an event—it’s a declaration that LGBTQ+
people belong in every space, including those deeply rooted in Kentucky’s
cultural identity.”
The 2025 event will again feature
collaborations with leading bourbon brands such as Old Forester, New Riff
Distilling, Wenzel Whiskey, and Maker’s Mark, as well as partnerships with host
hotels committed to fostering welcoming spaces for all travelers.
“This isn’t just about bourbon—it’s about
belonging,” said Mary Quinn Ramer, President of VisitLEX. “Bourbon &
Belonging celebrates our people, our pride, and our promise that Kentucky is
for everyone.”
Modeled after iconic events like Sonoma’s
Gay Wine Weekend and DC’s QueerBeer Fest,Bourbon & Belonging has quickly
become a beacon for inclusive tourism and cultural celebration in the South.
All proceeds support Queer Kentucky’s mission to uplift and empower LGBTQ+
Kentuckians through storytelling, education, and community programming.
“Bourbon & Belonging continues to be a shining example of how
Louisville leads with hospitality mixed with our strong cultural heritage,”
said Cleo Battle, President & CEO of Louisville
Tourism. “This event not
only celebrates our world-renowned Bourbon scene, but also reinforces our
unwavering commitment to being a welcoming destination.”
“We’re honored to host Bourbon & Belonging again this year in
Northern Kentucky,” said Julie Kirkpatrick, President & CEO of meetNKY.
“It’s a testament to Kentucky’s reputation as a welcoming, world-class bourbon
destination that blends heritage with fresh, exciting experiences.”
Posted by: Louisville Tourism
Posted on: 27/06/2025