The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival has established itself as a premier event for whisky enthusiasts around the world. With an extensive program, often made up of over 500 whisky-inspired events, it delivers remarkable experience for both beginners and seasoned connoisseurs alike. Since its launch in 1999, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival has evolved into a significant gathering, attracting visitors from far and wide who share a passion for Scotland's national drink.
The festival is always a fantastic way to try new or exclusive whiskies and be surrounded by other whisky lovers. Everyone is in good spirits and Speyside is just beautiful to drive through.
The diverse program of events ensures there is something for everyone. Whether you're a curious beginner looking to learn more about whisky or a seasoned connoisseur seeking rare and unique drams, the festival's partners and members come together to offer wide range of activities to truly showcase the best of Speyside. Distilleries across the region delight whisky noses with whisky tastings led by industry experts, masterclasses on whisky production and maturation, whisky pairing dinners, blending workshops and more. And of course, Speyside whisky fans have a chance to see behind the scenes at many distilleries that open exclusively for the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival.
While the distilleries of Speyside may be the main draw for visitors, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival goes beyond the drams that brought its fame. Also known for its exceptional local produce, many festival events combine whisky with indulgent, delicious meals prepared by Speyside's talented local chefs. From modern and traditional dining to live music and traditional ceilidhs to art exhibitions and outdoor activities such as off-roading, trail running and canoeing, the entire community of Speyside come together to showcase the very best of the spirit of Speyside.
Event venues are as varied as the experiences on offer - distilleries old and new, charming village halls, local whisky bars, restaurants and hotels, historic castles, old steadings and the great outdoors – each guaranteeing an authentic experience. With activities taking place from Elgin in the North, Kingussie in the South to Keith in the East and Forres in the West, following the length of the River Spey to the sea (one of National Geographic's 'greatest coastlines'), the Festival brings this renowned whisky region to life as visitors from over 35 countries are welcomed, greeted by locals as old friends.
It was our first time visiting the Spirit of Speyside Festival and it exceeded our expectations in every way -so much so we have already booked our accommodation for next year and are bringing friends!
Encompassing the Whisky School in the days before the festival opens and the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Awards, the festival's six-day duration allows attendees ample time to explore and immerse themselves in the vibrant whisky culture of Speyside. It provides a unique opportunity to discover and appreciate the nuances and complexities of different whiskies, interact with knowledgeable professionals, and engage with fellow enthusiasts who share a love for this iconic Scottish spirit.
