Music Lineup for Bourbon & Beyond, The World’s Largest Bourbon, Food & Music Festival, on September 24-27, 2026.

Thursday, September 24

Building Bourbon Differently w/ Dan Callaway, Jane Bowie, Kenny Coleman, Ryan Cecil, & Jason Brauner

Thurs 9/24
1:45pm-2:15pm
Guest: Jane Bowie (Potter Jane) / Kenny Coleman (Pursuit Spirits) / Ryan Cecil (Pursuit Spirits) / Jason Bruner (Buzzard's Roost)
Moderator: Dan Calloway
Bourbon

Learn More

Come along as these guests share how they didn't inherit a legacy brand - they built them. They'll speak on how they used innovation in place of tradition and how they build loyalty in a crowded industry. And of course some lucky guests in the audience will get a chance to taste some amazing pours.

Burger Battle w/ Santos, Stanley & Simmons

Thurs 9/24
2:30pm-3:00pm
Guest: Chris Santos / Stanley & Simmons / One lucky fan
Culinary

Learn More

What happens when acclaimed chef Chris Santos challenges members of Stanley Simmons to step into the kitchen? A high-energy Fork & Flask session where great food, friendly competition, and bourbon come together for an unforgettable live experience.

Spaghetti Tattoo: A Fork & Flask Welcome w/ Plain White T's

Thurs 9/24
3:15pm-3:45pm
Guest: Plain White T's
Culinary

Learn More

Plain White T’s — Acoustic Set Head to the Fork & Flask stage for a welcome event inspired by Plain White T’s’ Spaghetti Tattoo. The band takes the stage for an intimate 20-minute acoustic set while guests twirl spaghetti, sport a signature tattoo, and raise a glass together to officially start the weekend. Part acoustic performance, part pasta party, and completely unexpected, Spaghetti Tattoo brings food, music, and a little bit of whimsy together for a welcome experience made for & Beyond.

Bites & Barrels w/ Bardstown Bourbon Co & Chef Lawrence Weeks

Thurs 9/24
4:00pm-4:30pm
Moderator: Lawrence Weeks
Culinary & Bourbon

Learn More

Join acclaimed Chef Lawrence Weeks at the Fork & Flask stage for a capitvating live cooking experience paired with innovative spirits of Bardstown Bourbon Co. Known for his deep roots in hyper-local ingredients and refined flavors, Chef Weeks will showcase how to elevate your kitchen game all paired with KY's finest modern bourbon.

The Search with Derek Trucks

Thurs 9/24
4:45pm-5:15pm
Guest: Derek Trucks (Ass Pocket Whiskey)
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Bourbon

Learn More

Join Derek Trucks and Chris Blandford for an intimate conversation celebrating Ass Pocket Whiskey. In this candid discussion Derek shares the inspiration behind the new release, the creative journey that brought it to life, and the parallels between crafting exceptional whiskey and creating timeless music.

Friday, September 25

Hops, Hip-Hop, & Hometown Pride w/ Nappy Roots

Fri 9/25
1:15pm-1:45pm
Guest: Nappy Roots
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Beyond Bourbon

Learn More

"Kentucky's beverage culture extends far beyond bourbon. Join bourbon enthusiast Chris Blandford and Louisville natives Nappy Roots for a lively Fork & Flask session celebrating the rise of craft beer, local entrepreneurship, and the passion that fuels Kentucky's thriving beverage scene. During this 30-minute experience, Chris Blandford and members of Nappy Roots will explore the inspiration behind the band's journey into craft brewing, discussing how music, business, and community have come together to create a brand that reflects their Louisville roots. Through conversation, tastings, and audience interaction, they'll share stories about developing their craft beer, building an authentic brand, and the similarities between creating great music and great beer. Blending local flavor, engaging storytelling, and a celebration of Kentucky craftsmanship, this unique collaboration highlights another side of the Commonwealth's rich beverage culture while showcasing the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to shape Louisville's food and drink community."

Chef Tyler and Sargento® Join Fork & Flask Stage

Fri 9/25
2:15pm-2:45pm
Guest: Chef Tyler / Noah Rinker
Moderator: Chris Santos
Culinary

Learn More

Joining this year's Fork & Flask lineup is Sargento® brand ambassador Chef Tyler, whose larger-than-life grilled cheese creations have earned him more than 6 million social followers. Throughout the festival, fans can see him on stage and stop by the Sargento® Cheese Wheeler to enjoy complimentary grilled cheese samples featuring Sargento® Natural American Cheese.

Sip, Stir & Storytelling with Claudette Zepeda x Lili Lambert

Fri 9/25
3:00pm-3:30pm
Guest: Claudette Zepeda / Lili Lambert
Moderator: Chris Santos
Culinary

Learn More

Chef Claudette Zepeda joins Louisville mixologist Lili Lambert for a vibrant Fork & Flask session celebrating the art of zero-proof pairing. As Claudette prepares a bold, flavor-driven signature dish, Lili will craft innovative spirit-free cocktails designed to complement every bite. Together, they'll demonstrate that memorable food and exceptional drinks don't require alcohol—just creativity, balance, and great ingredients—offering something for every festival goer.

A Taste of the Commonwealth w/ Governor Andy Beshear, Chef Sara Bradley and Chris Blandford

Fri 9/25
4:15pm-4:45pm
Guest: Gov. Andy Beshear / Chef Sara Bradley
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Culinary

Learn More

Celebrate the people, flavors, and traditions that make Kentucky unlike anywhere else. Governor Andy Beshear joins acclaimed Kentucky chef Sara Bradley and bourbon enthusiast Chris Blandford for a special Fork & Flask conversation highlighting the Commonwealth's rich culinary heritage, world-renowned bourbon industry, and the culture that continues to inspire visitors from around the globe. Blending live cooking, bourbon education, and authentic storytelling, this session celebrates the spirit of Kentucky through its food, its bourbon, and the voices helping shape its future. Guests will leave with a deeper appreciation for the Commonwealth's rich traditions and a preview of the stories Governor Beshear explores in his upcoming book, Go and Do Likewise.

Sean Brock Live

Fri 9/25
5:15pm-5:45pm
Guest: Sean Brock
Moderator: Chris Santos
Culinary

Learn More

When he isn't redefining American cuisine, heritage ingredients or masterminding the perfect vinyl playlist, Chef Sean Brock is doing what he does best: cooking with fires, history and heart. Join us at the Fork & Flask stage for an exclusive cooking demonstration. Learn the ultimate techniques behind his legendary flavors, discover unexpected pairing profiles and hear stories that connect the plate to the glass.

The 1-2-3 Punch w/ WWE Superstar Je'Von Evans & Wheatley Vodka

Fri 9/25
6:00pm-6:30pm
Guest: Je'Von Evans
Moderator: Chris Blandford

Learn More

Join WWE Superstar Je'Von Evans on the Fork & Flask to experience a new version of the 1-2-3 punch featuring Wheatley Vodka. Stick around as Chris Blandford and Je'Von share stories from times in and out of the ring!

SATURDAY, September 26

Chopped, Chilled & Distilled with Amanda Freitag, Elizabeth McCall & Jane Bowie

Sat 9/26
1:00pm-1:30pm
Guest: Amanda Freitag / Elizabeth McCall
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Culinary

Learn More

Join acclaimed chef Amanda Freitag for a special Fork & Flask experience celebrating exceptional food, craftsmanship, and the women helping shape today's bourbon industry. Through a live cooking demonstration and engaging conversation with Elizabeth McCall and Jane Bowie, Amanda will showcase a signature dish thoughtfully paired with award-winning bourbons, exploring the artistry, passion, and dedication behind both culinary and distilling traditions. This inspiring session highlights the creativity and innovation of two industries brought together by a shared commitment to craftsmanship and flavor.

Kickin' It With Racing Louisville

Sat 9/26
2:00pm-2:30pm
Guest: Jordyn Bloomer / Emma Sears / Quincy McMahon / Taylor Flint / Arin Wright
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Beyond Bourbon

Learn More

Women in Sports, Leadership, and the Power of Teamwork. Join players from Racing Louisville FC for an interactive conversation about competing at the highest level, breaking barriers in professional sports, and what it takes to build a winning team on and off the field. Along the way, fans will enjoy a tasting of Racing Louisville's Falls City collaboration beer, hear "behind the scenes" stories from life as a professional athlete, and even get a chance to test their own soccer skills in front of the Bourbon & Beyond crowd.

Viral Bites & Bourbon Flights with Owen Han x H Woo Lee

Sat 9/26
2:45pm-3:15pm
Guest: Owen Han / H Woo
Moderator: Chris Santos
Culinary

Learn More

One legendary sandwich. Two creative minds. Endless flavor. Social media sensation Owen Han joins acclaimed Chef H Woo for a high-energy Fork & Flask experience centered around creating the ultimate festival sandwich. Blending culinary creativity with great conversation and plenty of personality, this 30-minute session is all about celebrating the foods that bring people together. Working side by side, Owen and Chef H Woo will build a one-of-a-kind signature sandwich inspired by bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and the spirit of Bourbon & Beyond. Along the way, guests will enjoy audience interaction, behind-the-scenes culinary tips, and the fun, unscripted moments that happen when food, music, and creativity collide.

Chris Stapleton x Harlen Wheatley

Sat 9/26
3:45pm-4:15pm
Guest: Chris Stapleton / Harlen Wheatley
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Culinary / Bourbon

Learn More

Chris Stapleton and Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley take the Fork & Flask Stage for a conversation about Traveler Whiskey, the craft behind every bottle, and the connection between bourbon and music. Hear how passion, patience, and authenticity have shaped Chris's journey and why the best stories are meant to be shared over a great pour.

Guardians of Great Bourbon

Sat 9/26
4:30pm-5:00pm
Guest: Preston Van Winkle (PVW) / Elizabeth McCall (Woodford Reserve) / Ross Cornelissen (1792) / Trey Zoeller (Jefferson's) / Blake Layfield (Makers Mark)
Moderator: Ian Sulkowski
Bourbon

Learn More

These are the people entrusted with iconic brands and huge expectations. The discussion isn't about making bourbon. It's about protecting something bigger than themselves. Get a chance to experience the greats from Pappy Van Winkle, Woodford Reserve, Jefferson's, 1792 and Makers Mark.

Beyond the Rickhouse

Sat 9/26
5:15pm-5:45pm
Guest: Brewzle (TJ Gamble) / Tyler Zoeller / Dave Bob / Owen Martin (Angel's Envy) / John Wadell Peerless
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Bourbon

Learn More

For decades bourbon was a regional product enjoyed by a loyal following. Today it's a global phenomenon, a tourism driver, a social media obsession, and a centerpiece of American culture. This conversation explores how bourbon moved from the rickhouse to the mainstream—and where it goes next.

Bones, Bourbon & Bluegrass ft Mill Iron 4 and Peerless Bourbon

Sat 9/26
6:00pm-6:30pm
Guest: Dustin Olsen (Mill Iron 4) / John Waddell (Peerless Bourbon) / Scott T Smith
Moderator: Chris Santos
Culinary / Bourbon

Learn More

Experience Kentucky tradition at its finest as butcher and pitmaster Dustin Olsen takes the Fork & Flask stage for an immersive demonstration celebrating whole-animal butchery, live-fire cooking, and the craftsmanship behind exceptional ingredients. Accompanied by the sounds of a live bluegrass band, this one-of-a-kind session brings together the heritage of the farm, the kitchen, and the bourbon barrel. Throughout this 30-minute demonstration, Dustin will break down a premium cut while sharing the fundamentals of butchery, sourcing, and preparation, giving guests an inside look at the techniques and respect required to transform exceptional ingredients into unforgettable meals. The session culminates with a roasted bone marrow Peerless Bourbon luge, creating a bold pairing that celebrates the rich flavors and traditions synonymous with Bourbon & Beyond.

Sunday, September 27

Desnuda Tequila and Santos Ochoa

Sun 9/27
12:30pm-1:00pm
Moderator: Santos Ochoa

Learn More

Meet us as the Fork & Flask stage for an exclusive, guided tequila tasting hosted by Santos Ochoa, the visionary Master Distiller behind Desnuda Tequila

Rooted in Kentucky

Sun 9/27
1:15pm-1:45pm
Guest: Maggie Keith / Dr. Blake Layfield
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Culinary / Bourbon / KY Proud

Learn More

Join Maggie Keith, Dr. Blake Layfield, and Mary Berry for an engaging conversation on the future of regenerative agriculture and the importance of supporting Kentucky Proud producers. Through thoughtful discussion and seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms, this session explores how healthy soil, sustainable farming practices, and strong local partnerships are shaping the future of Kentucky's food system—celebrating the farmers, chefs, and communities working together to keep Kentucky thriving.

Bridging Bourbon Country | Chef Mike Bowe x Tonic and Christian Huber

Sun 9/27
2:15pm-2:45pm
Guest: Chef Mike Bowe (Red Yeti) / Tonic / Christian Huber (Starlight Distillery)
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Culinary / Bourbon

Learn More

Just across the river from Louisville, Chef Michael Bowe of Red Yeti and Christian Huber of Starlight Distillery join members of Tonic for a Fork & Flask experience celebrating the food, bourbon, and music that define the region. Together, they'll bring the flavors and stories of Southern Indiana and Kentucky to the stage through a dynamic live cooking demonstration, thoughtfully curated bourbon pairings, and engaging conversation. During this 30-minute session, Chef Bowe will prepare one of Red Yeti's signature dishes while Christian Huber shares the craftsmanship behind Starlight's award-winning bourbons and the art of pairing exceptional whiskey with memorable cuisine. Members of Tonic will join the discussion, sharing stories from life on the road, favorite meals and bourbon discoveries, and the role that food plays in bringing people together while touring. Celebrating local craftsmanship, authentic hospitality, and the connection between music and the table, this collaboration offers festival guests an engaging look at the people, products, and traditions that make the Ohio River region one of America's premier destinations for food, bourbon, and live music.

Firkin Podcast with Better Than Ezra

Sun 9/27
3:00pm-3:30pm
Guest: Better Than Ezra / Greg Keeley (Larrikin Bourbon)
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Bourbon

Learn More

Join Chris Blandford for a live recording of The Firkin Podcast featuring members of Better Than Ezra and Greg Keeley of Larrikin Bourbon. This intimate fireside conversation explores the stories behind music, bourbon, and the launch of Larrikin Bourbon, offering festival guests an engaging look at craftsmanship, creativity, and the moments that bring people together over a great pour.

Plates, Pours & Pop w/ Mei Lin, Lisa Loeb & Melissa Rift (Old Forester)

Sun 9/27
3:45pm-4:15pm
Guest: Chef Mei Lin / Lisa Loeb / Melissa Rift (Old Forester)
Moderator: Chris Santos
Culinary / Bourbon

Learn More

Chef Mei Lin x Lisa Loeb x Melissa Rift Three women who have built careers by mastering their respective crafts—food, music, and bourbon—come together to explore the artistry behind creating something memorable. Through a live cooking demonstration, curated bourbon pairings, and conversation, they'll discuss creativity, inspiration, and the pursuit of excellence in their work.

Beyond the Barrel with Carrie Van Winkle & Dan-O

Sun 9/27
4:30pm-5:00pm
Guest: Carrie Van Winkle / Dan from Dan-O's
Moderator: Chris Blandford
Culinary / Bourbon

Learn More

Carrie Van Winkle representing Pappy & Co., Dan from Dan-O's Seasonin for a lively 30-minute culinary session centered around bold flavors, approachable cooking, and the stories that bring people together. Featuring a live cooking demonstration, creative seasoning techniques, and the conversation will explore favorite meals, entertaining at home, and the moments where food and music naturally intersect.

The Fork & Flask Yacht Club - One Last Pour with Yachtley Crew

Sun 9/27
5:15pm-5:45pm
Moderator: Yachtley Crew
Bourbon

Learn More

THE FORK & FLASK YACHT CLUB: ONE LAST POUR Yachtley Crew × YachtSea Join Yachtley Crew and Louisville’s YachtSea as they take over Fork & Flask for the ultimate Sunday funday. Yacht rock favorites, signature cocktail samples, trays of mini dogs and of course a crowd-wide sing-along. Part live music, part cocktail party, and all good vibes and captain's hats, One Last Pour is the perfect farewell for Fork & Flask before we sail away until next year!

EXPLORE THE LINEUP

Amanda Freitag

Andy Beshear

Governor of Kentucky

Andy Beshear

Anthony Lamas

Arin Wright

Racing Louisville FC

Arin Wright

Better Than Ezra

Blake Layfield

Makers Mark

Blake Layfield

Brandon Smith

Bardstown Bourbon Company

Brandon Smith

Brewzle

Carrie Van Winkle

Pappy Van Winkle

Carrie Van Winkle

Chef Tyler

Sargento

Chef Tyler

Chris Blandford

Host

Chris Blandford

Chris Santos

Fork Host

Chris Santos

Chris Stapleton

Christian Huber

Starlight Distillery

Christian Huber

Claudette Zepeda

Conor O'Driscoll

Dan Callaway

Bardstown Bourbon Company

Dan Callaway

Dan O

Dan-O's Seasonings

Dan O

Dave Bob

Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co

Dave Bob

Derek Trucks

APW

Derek Trucks

Dustin Olsen

Mill Iron 4

Dustin Olsen

Elizabeth McCall

Woodford Reserve Master Distiller

Elizabeth McCall

Emma Sears

Racing Louisville FC

Emma Sears

Freddie Noe

Greg Keeley

Larrikin Bourbon

Greg Keeley

Ian Sulkowski

Brown Forman

Ian Sulkowski

H Woo Lee

Harlen Wheatley

Travelers Bourbon / Sazerac

Harlen Wheatley

Jane Bowie

Potter Jane

Jane Bowie

Jason Brauner

Buzzards Roost

Jason Brauner

John Wadell

Peerless

John Wadell

Jordyn Bloomer

Racing Louisville FC

Jordyn Bloomer

Kenny Coleman

Pursuit Spirits

Kenny Coleman

Lawrence Weeks

Murray's Creole Pub

Lawrence Weeks

Lili Lambert

Mixologist

Lili Lambert

Lisa Loeb

Macaulay Minton

The Dark Arts

Macaulay Minton

Maggie Keith

Fox Hollow Farm

Maggie Keith

Mary Berry

Mei Lin

Melissa Rift

Old Forester Master Taster

Melissa Rift

Michael Bowe

The Red Yeti

Michael Bowe

Nappy Roots

Atlantucky Brewing

Nappy Roots

Noah Rinker

Owen Han

Owen Martin

Master Distiller Angel's Envy

Owen Martin

Plain White T's

Preston Van Winkle

Pappy Van Winkle

Preston Van Winkle

Quincy McMahon

Racing Louisville FC

Quincy McMahon

Rich Finck

Kentucky Straight Ice

Rich Finck

Ross Cornelissen

1792 Master Distiller

Ross Cornelissen

Ryan Cecil

Pursuit Spirits

Ryan Cecil

Sara Bradley

Sean Brock

Stanley Simmons

Taylor Flint

Racing Louisville FC

Taylor Flint

Tonic

Trey Zoeller

Jeffersons

Trey Zoeller

Tyler Zoller

Louisville Bourbon Buzz

Tyler Zoller

Amanda Freitag

Andy Beshear

Anthony Lamas

Arin Wright

Better Than Ezra

Blake Layfield

Brandon Smith

Brewzle

Carrie Van Winkle

Chef Tyler

Chris Blandford

Chris Santos

Chris Stapleton

Christian Huber

Claudette Zepeda

Conor O'Driscoll

Dan Callaway

Dan O

Dave Bob

Derek Trucks

Dustin Olsen

Elizabeth McCall

Emma Sears

Freddie Noe

Greg Keeley

Ian Sulkowski

H Woo Lee

Harlen Wheatley

Jane Bowie

Jason Brauner

John Wadell

Jordyn Bloomer

Kenny Coleman

Lawrence Weeks

Lili Lambert

Lisa Loeb

Macaulay Minton

Maggie Keith

Mary Berry

Mei Lin

Melissa Rift

Michael Bowe

Nappy Roots

Noah Rinker

Owen Han

Owen Martin

Plain White T's

Preston Van Winkle

Quincy McMahon

Rich Finck

Ross Cornelissen

Ryan Cecil

Sara Bradley

Sean Brock

Stanley Simmons

Taylor Flint

Tonic

Trey Zoeller

Tyler Zoller

Je'Von Evans

Yachtley Crew

Thursday, September 24

Friday, September 25

SATURDAY, September 26

Sunday, September 27

EXPLORE THE LINEUP

Full Lineup

Fork

Flask