Bourbon & Beyond 2025: Major Enhancements Elevate Festival Experience

Bourbon & Beyond, the world's largest bourbon and music festival, is set to return to Louisville from September 11–14, 2025, with significant upgrades aimed at enhancing the fan experience.

 

Festival producer Danny Wimmer Presents (DWP) has announced an expanded festival footprint at the Kentucky Exposition Center, utilizing more of the venue's infrastructure to improve crowd flow and comfort. This expansion includes increased shaded areas, additional turf zones, and a more spacious layout designed for attendees to relax and enjoy the festivities.

 

In a groundbreaking collaboration, all festival passes will now include complimentary access to 18 amusement rides at the adjacent Kentucky Kingdom amusement park. Rides such as the Giant Wheel and Lightning Run roller coaster will be available exclusively to festival-goers from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily, with the Giant Wheel operating until 10 p.m. for late-night enjoyment.

 

“This move has been years in the making, and we’re thrilled to finally bring it to life,” said Danny Wimmer of DWP. “With Bourbon & Beyond growing year over year, we knew it was time for more space, more comfort, and more ways to elevate the fan experience beyond just the music.”

 

Additional enhancements include an immersive merchandise experience inside the climate-controlled Kentucky Expo Center, featuring festival gear, activations, and lounge seating. The MINT VIP area has been expanded by 35%, now boasting a three-story shaded viewing platform offering elevated views of both main stages.

 

The 2025 lineup is set to impress, with headliners such as The Lumineers (Thursday, Sept. 11), Phish (Friday, Sept. 12), Sturgill "Johnny Blue Skies" Simpson (Saturday, Sept. 13), and Noah Kahan (Sunday, Sept. 14). Other notable acts include Jack White, Benson Boone, Cage The Elephant, Goo Goo Dolls, Alabama Shakes, Third Eye Blind, Megan Moroney, and Foreigner.

 

Beyond the music, attendees can look forward to culinary workshops and bourbon tastings, celebrating Kentucky's rich food and spirits culture. The festival's growth is evident, with a record 210,000 fans attending in 2024, marking a 75% increase from the previous year.

 

With these enhancements, Bourbon & Beyond 2025 promises to deliver an unparalleled experience, blending world-class music, culinary excellence, and the unique charm of Louisville.