Welcome to Des Moines Whiskey Fest! Get ready to indulge in the finest whiskey selection from around the world. Our festival is the perfect opportunity to discover new flavors and connect with fellow whiskey enthusiasts. Cheers to a memorable experience!
(Pre-Festival Tasting Event, July 9)
CELEBRATION
Des Moines Whiskey Festival 2026
Join us for a weekend of exceptional experiences at the Des Moines Whiskey Festival.
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Thursday, October 1: Women & Whiskey Dinner @ The River Center in downtown Des Moines
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Friday, October 2: VIP and Live Music @ the brand new Meridian Event Center in West Des Moines
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Saturday, October 3: Main Event! @ the brand new Meridian Event Center in West Des Moines
This year's festival promises to be more thrilling than ever. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable event.
EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE WHISKEY FESTIVAL
Get ready to raise your glasses and cheer to the annual whiskey festival! This is the ultimate event for all whiskey enthusiasts out there. With an incredible selection of brands and flavors to choose from, you'll have the chance to discover new favorites and indulge in your beloved classics. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to celebrate love for whiskey!
Women & Whiskey Dinner
Ladies first!
Date: Thursday, October 1st, 2026
Location: River Center DSM , 340 SW 3rd St, Des Moines IA 50309
Tasting Time: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Networking & Dinner 6:00PM - 9:00 PM
Get your ticket today!
VIP Whiskey Tasting Event featuring Iowa Distilleries & Live Music
This is an All-VIP night!
(go to tickets to see all the VIP perks)
Date: Friday, October 2nd, 2026
Location: The Meridian, 7001 Westown Parkway, Ste. 100, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Tasting Time: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM
The Whiskey Tasting Main Event! Live Music
General Admission and VIP tickets available (go to tickets to see all the VIP perks)
Date: Saturday, October 3rd, 2026
Location: The Meridian, 7001 Westown Parkway, Ste. 100, West Des Moines, IA 50266
Tasting Time: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM (11:00 AM VIP Early Entry)
Enhanced Experience add-on (spaces limited): insights into the whiskey-making process, and more
Get your Enhanced Experience ticket now for just $15!
The main event is here! Dive into a day full of whiskey wonders at the Des Moines Whiskey Festival. Discover an array of whiskeys from Iowa and the Midwest, engage in masterclasses, and enjoy live music, all under one roof.
One-day, two-day and three-day tickets available now!
Event features:
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Tasting booths with a wide variety of whiskeys
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Masterclasses led by whiskey experts
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Live music and entertainment throughout the day
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Food trucks and local vendors offering delicious pairings
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Exclusive merchandise and festival souvenirs
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Immersive whiskey learning experience for all levels of whiskey connoisseurs
PRE-FESTIVAL WHISKEY EVENT: Iowa Whiskey Tour
Walk Iowa: A Spirited Journey (food, music and more)
A guided tasting experience across the state—without leaving the DSM metro area
Date: Thursday, July 9, 2026
Location: Walk Your Plans DSM, 1500 SE 19th St, Suite 255, Grimes, IA 50111
Tasting Time: 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
OUR FESTIVAL
9
Years of
Celebration
2K+
Attendees
Last Year
6
Performers & Artists
200
+
Tasting
EMBRACING FESTIVAL TRADITIONS
Whiskey traditions have been around for centuries, with each country and region having its own unique way of producing this beloved spirit. From the smoky flavors of Scottish single malts to the sweet notes of American bourbons, whiskey has become a staple in many cultures around the world. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or just starting to explore this rich tradition, there's always something new to discover and appreciate.
SUPPORTERS
We are grateful for the generous support of our sponsors and partners who share in our passion for celebrating whiskey. Their contributions have been instrumental in making our whiskey events a success.
