So we all know the first Saturday in May is the main event but the parties the night before are a seriously close second. If hunting down former members of N*Sync and 80’s rock stars is your bag, then you’re going to want to pass on this. But if you’re like me and want an authentic Kentucky experience from the setting to delicious local food to bourbon cocktails galore – I’ve got you covered.

Garden & Gun is hosting the second annual A Stitzel-Weller Affair presented by Blade and Bow Bourbon and you’re invited.

I remember seeing pictures from last year’s gorgeous event and being oh-so-jealous of the set-up. This year’s event is sure to feature an equally swoon-worthy set up along with dinner by Chef Ford Fry from Wiltshire Pantry and a bourbon tasting of some of the rarest bourbons available. Blade and Bow’s Whiskey Educator will lead guest through a tasting of their Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey as well as the Blade and Bow 22-year-old which recently received the honor of “Best Straight Bourbon” at the San Francisco Spirits Competition. Basically, it’s good stuff and you’re going to get to taste it along with a mint juleps galore.

Purchase Tickets 

The entire affair takes place outside of the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Louisville, so if you’re coming in from out of town or have guests coming in, this is a great chance to get to see a little bit of Bourbon Country while still staying in Louisville. And after you’re treated to a night to remember, with music from the Steep Canyon Rangers, you can head out to continue partying the night away.

I’m thinking after you browse the pictures below, you’re going to want to pick out a perfectly southern party dress and grab tickets. 

Mint Juleps for days.

 Images courtesy of Blade and Bow.

Thanks so much to Stitzel-Weller for partnering on this post.