For whiskey enthusiasts seeking distinctive and intimate festival experiences in 2025, several events across Ireland, Scotland, and beyond offer unique opportunities to explore the world of whiskey. Here’s a month-by-month guide to some standout whiskey festivals.
April
Belfast Whiskey Social
Date: Saturday, April 26th
Location: Europa Hotel, Belfast, Northern Ireland
This one-day event has rapidly become a sell-out experience, hosting up to 1,000 guests who can sample some of Ireland’s finest whiskeys and engage directly with the producers. Situated opposite the iconic Crown Liquor Saloon, the festival offers a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Belfast.
May
Stirling Whisky Festival
Date: Saturday, May 10th
Location: Highland Hotel, Stirling, Scotland
Billed as Scotland’s best value whisky festival, this event features hundreds of drams from major whisky makers across Scotland and beyond. An opening event on Friday night at Stirling Distillery, hosted by the Scottish Malt Whisky Society, offers a guided tasting of select whiskies.
June
Arran Malt & Music Festival
Dates: June 27th–29th
Location: Lochranza and Lagg Distilleries, Isle of Arran, Scotland
This festival combines whisky tastings with live music, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Festivities begin with a marquee whisky dinner for White Stag members on Friday night. Saturday’s events at Lochranza Distillery include tastings, expert masterclasses, and conclude with a traditional ceilidh in the marquee.
July
Belfast Whiskey Week
Dates: July 18th–26th
Location: Various venues across Belfast, Northern Ireland
As Ireland’s largest whiskey festival, this nine-day event offers a comprehensive exploration of Irish whiskey. Attendees can participate in tastings, masterclasses, and engage with industry experts, all while experiencing Belfast’s rich cultural scene.
August
Whisky Fringe
Dates: August 8th–10th
Location: Mansfield Traquair, Edinburgh, Scotland
Hosted by Royal Mile Whiskies, this festival provides an opportunity to sample a wide range of whiskies in the historic setting of Mansfield Traquair. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, Whisky Fringe allows attendees to discover new favorites and deepen their appreciation of whisky. Hoochenanny Whiskey & Music Festival.
September
Oslo Whisky Festival
Dates: September 12th–13th
Location: Oslo, Norway
This festival offers a platform for both well-known and emerging whisky brands to showcase their products. Attendees can enjoy tastings, attend seminars, and interact with industry professionals, all within the vibrant city of Oslo.
October
Whisky Live Paris
Dates: October 4th–6th
Location: Paris, France
As one of Europe’s premier whisky events, Whisky Live Paris features an extensive selection of whiskies from around the world. The festival includes tastings, masterclasses, and opportunities to meet distillers, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most iconic cities.
November
Dramfest
Dates: November 15th–16th
Location: Christchurch, New Zealand
Dramfest is New Zealand’s premier whisky festival, offering attendees the chance to sample a diverse range of local and international whiskies. The event also features educational sessions and the opportunity to meet industry experts.
December
Whisky Wonderland
Date: Saturday, December 6th
Location: Dublin, Ireland
This festive event combines the joys of the holiday season with the pleasures of whiskey tasting. Attendees can sample a variety of Irish whiskeys, enjoy seasonal foods, and partake in holiday-themed activities.
Attending these festivals provides an excellent opportunity to deepen your appreciation for whiskey, discover new favorites, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. For those inspired to explore Irish whiskey further, consider visiting The Single Malt Shop, where you can buy Irish whiskey online and find a curated selection of some of the finest expressions available.
