A celebration of flavour and craftsmanship, the inaugural Kerry Drinks Festival, taking place on Saturday, November 15, promises a one-of-a-kind tasting experience, showcasing the rich diversity of the country’s drinks industry — from whiskeys and gins to craft beers, ciders, vodkas, liqueurs, and much more.
Sponsored by Carry Out Killarney and Dingle Distillery, the festival will bring together 45 producers and a host of enthusiasts for a day of sampling, socialising, and discovery.
The day will kick off with a Trade Expo at 2.30pm, tailored for industry professionals from the bar, restaurant, and hospitality sectors. Attendees will have the chance to meet with a wide range of producers, explore new products, and forge valuable business connections ahead of the busy festive season.
A highlight of the day will be the Dingle Distillery Masterclass, taking place from 6pm to 7pm. This masterclass will offer a guided tasting and in-depth insight into the distillery’s acclaimed portfolio, led by its expert team.
Then, at 7pm, the festival opens to the general public for the Brand Expo and Social—an immersive sampling experience set against the scenic backdrop of Killarney Racecourse. On arrival, guests will receive their specially selected complimentary festival tasting glass, designed to enhance the flavour of every sip, from spirits to beer.
Attendees will enter through a lively Beerhall, with samples along the way, before passing a bespoke selection of food vendors offering bites for purchase, en route to the atmospheric Spirits Lounge. Complimentary mixers will be available for those who prefer a long drink. Guests are encouraged to chat with the makers and soak up the friendly, festive atmosphere.
The event is organised by Sonya O’Dwyer and Laurie O’Dwyer (host of Whiskey Chats Podcast ), who are the same people behind the very successful Cork Whiskey Fest, which celebrated its third festival in March this year.
“We are thrilled to launch Kerry Drinks Festival this November,” Sonya O’Dwyer said. “With the help of everyone in Kerry, we are excited to create something really special for the county.”
Laurie O’Dwyer added: “It will be a weekend of great drinks, great atmosphere and plenty of craic”
Whether you’re a connoisseur or simply curious, the Kerry Drinks Festival offers the perfect setting to enjoy your old favourites and discover some new ones, all under one roof.
Tickets go on sale tomorrow, Friday July 18, at 7pm on kerrydrinksfestival.com
Always remember to drink responsibly – see Drinkaware.ie
