World of Whiskey

Welcome to the World of Whiskey at Hoochenanny, presented by FSI Construction and featuring six unique experiences within a more than 14,000-square-foot, air-conditioned tent transformed into an immersive tasting environment. Around 40 national and regional distillers will showcase more than 140 whiskeys and spirits, from legendary brands to New York State’s thriving craft distilling scene.

HOURS
Friday 4:00–8:00 PM
Saturday & Sunday 2:00–8:00 PM

Presented by

Access with GA+ or VIP Pass, including up to 20 tastings per guest. Additional tastings can be purchased on-site during the event. Must be 21 and over to enter.

Six Unique Whiskey Experiences

Rickhouse Rendezvous

Step into a one-of-a-kind experience where distillers from across the Empire State unite to showcase New York’s rich whiskey heritage. Explore interactive exhibits, sip, learn, and immerse yourself in a carefully curated collection of unique expressions that have made New York a signature destination in America’s whiskey culture.

Presented by the New York State Distillers Guild, this Empire State-themed space blends the charm of a turn-of-the-century rickhouse with the allure of a Prohibition-era speakeasy. Enjoy interactive sampling and fireside chats designed to deepen your connection to New York whiskey, then purchase bottles directly from participating distilleries. Leave your purchases with the Whiskey Valet, and pick them up on your way out of the festival.

American Whiskey Journey

Journey coast-to-coast to experience the visions of what American whiskey is and can be in the future. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and heritage of America’s signature spirit.

Travel from coast to coast through a highly curated collection of unique expressions from New York, Kentucky, Tennessee, Idaho, Vermont, Minnesota, Georgia, Indiana and beyond.

Notice the commonalities and differences of each whiskey-producing state. What do you like?

RARITIES BAR

Ever drank a dusty? Ever sipped a limited-edition specialty? The Rarities Bar offers Hoochenanny whiskey fans exclusive access to some truly rare sips. Featuring some of the most sought-after, limited-release expressions from regional and national distillers—including several available only at Hoochenanny—this is the ultimate destination for whiskey enthusiasts looking to discover something extraordinary.

View the selection here.

Libations Lounge

The Libations Lounge sits at the heart of the World of Whiskey, a cocktail bar experience designed for discovery and a moment to unwind. Step up to the bar and explore cocktails crafted with spirits from featured distilleries, all served in proper glassware.

For the first time this year, the experience expands with a mocktail menu, bringing thoughtful, non alcoholic options into the mix so everyone can take part.

View menu here.

Fireside chats

Gather around for engaging conversations with master distillers, blenders, brand ambassadors, hospitality professionals, musicians and whiskey experts.

These relaxed, audience-focused sessions explore the stories, craftsmanship and culture behind the pour, with topics ranging from barrel-strength whiskey, blending and finishing to food pairings, emerging trends and the bottles behind the bands. Guests can also test their whiskey knowledge during two rounds of Whiskey Trivia.

All World of Whiskey guests ages 21 and older are welcome. Seating is first-come, first-served.

View full schedule here.

Bourbon Broadcasts

Go behind the mic with Buffalo Happy Hour as the two hosts record their whiskey-focused podcast live at Hoochenanny. Each video and audio session will bring together multiple guests from the national bourbon industry for candid conversations, expert insight and stories from behind the bottle.

Find Bourbon Broadcast in its dedicated tented booth near the entrance to the World of Whiskey and watch the podcast take shape in real time.

Recording times will be announced.