6-20-2025 12:00am

AMERICA'S RIVER ROOTS ANNOUNCES BOURBON EXPERIENCE

Beth Callahan Editor

Story courtesy of Game Day Communications

CINCINNATI, OH -- America’s River Roots Festival is expanding its footprint—and flavor—with the launch of the Kentucky Bourbon Experience, presented by Fifth Third Bank.

Held under a 200-foot tent in Newport during America's River Roots Festival, October 8-12, this immersive, ticketed attraction features curated tastings, a speakeasy lounge, and interactive blending sessions. The experience is divided into three sections: the Bourbon Bottle Shop & Bazaar, the Bourbon Experience, and the Merchant’s Club—each offering a deep dive into bourbon’s cultural legacy.

Local favorite New Riff Distilling has been named the Official Bourbon of the festival and will anchor the programming with tastings, featured cocktails, and a Bourbon History Sightseeing Cruise aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ.

More than 15 distilleries, including Old Forester, Angels Envy, Woodford Reserve, and Bardstown Bourbon, will be featured throughout the festival, with additional brands joining this summer.

The Bourbon Experience runs as part of America’s River Roots, a five-day celebration of riverfront culture happening October 8–12, 2025 in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Tickets for the Bourbon Experience go on sale by the end of June.