Get ready to raise a glass at the 2026 Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest, Michigan’s cozy winter whiskey wonderland celebrating its fifth year on Saturday, January 17, 2026! Held indoors at the historic Michigan Firehouse Museum in charming downtown Ypsilanti (just minutes from Ann Arbor), this fan-favorite event packs over 100 rare and high-end pours into two fun sessions: 4:00–6:30 PM and 7:00–9:30 PM. From allocated bourbons and small-batch gems to ryes, Scotch, Irish, Japanese, and Canadian whiskeys, it’s a treasure hunt for unicorn bottles without the secondary market drama—perfect for hunters and casual sippers alike.
What makes it epic? Handcrafted classic cocktails at a dedicated station, local food vendors dishing out hearty bites to pair with your pours, live music setting the vibe amid vintage fire trucks, and even a VIP section for extra swag. Organized by bourbon passionate Paul Starr, the fest helps newcomers learn (no, pricey doesn’t always mean better!) while pros chase single casks. Proceeds support the nonprofit Friends of the River—sipping for a cause! Grab tickets early from ypsilantibourbonfest.com as they fly fast for this intimate, education-meets-fun Midwest gem.
Whether you’re bundling up for a Michigan winter adventure or exploring Ypsi’s quirky Depot Town vibes nearby, the 2026 Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest promises warm pours, cool history, and new friends over neat drams. Sláinte (and cheers) to Michigan’s bourbon scene stealing the spotlight!
Venue Address:
Michigan Firehouse Museum
110 W. Cross St.
Ypsilanti, MI 48197
Website: https://ypsilantibourbonfest.com/
(Tickets and more details available on the site!)
More about Friends of the River
Friends of the River, a dedicated 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 1973, is committed to enhancing water quality, public access, and environmental awareness across Michigan’s cherished rivers. Through hands-on initiatives like regular river cleanups, community education programs, and advocacy efforts, the organization brings volunteers together to remove trash, restore habitats, and promote sustainable enjoyment of these vital waterways—ensuring cleaner, healthier rivers for recreation, wildlife, and future generations. Proceeds from events like the Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest directly support these impactful projects, making every sip a toast to Michigan’s natural beauty. Learn more at friendsoftherivermi.org.