Belfast to again host Ireland’s biggest whiskey festival

Ireland’s largest whiskey festival is returning to Belfast next month, with thousands of people expected to attend a range of events over nine days.

The fifth Belfast Whiskey Week takes place from July 21-29 as the city welcomes the return of working whiskey distillation for the first time in almost 90 years.

Titanic Distillers has already set up shop at Thompson Dry Dock, with McConnell’s set open major distillery and tourist attraction in the A-wing of the former Crumlin Road Gaol.

The festival is a community led initiative driven by a group of enthusiasts from Belfast Whiskey Club.

This year’s event reflects the continued growth and diversity of the Irish whiskey scene, with more than 30 brands and distilleries participating across 18 venues.

The 2023 programme includes whiskey tastings, cocktail events, theatrical experiences, chocolate making, comedy, fine dining experiences, heritage walking tours, music, fire-side talks, Irish dancing, candle making and food pairing sessions.

“The city is steeped in whiskey heritage and legacy spanning 300 years and it’s important to celebrate that.

“We hope to welcome thousands of attendees across the 9-day event and hope they enjoy the wide range of unique and different ways to engage with whiskey.”