Carlow raises a glass to new winter festival

A fresh celebration of Irish whiskey will bring distillers, independent bottlers and enthusiasts together for a weekend of tastings and discovery. Six experiences across the town and county on 29 and 30 January 2027 aim to boost local hospitality and tourism.

Source: Carlow County Council

13 Nov 2026, 11:04 • ⏱️ 1 min read

Carlow raises a glass to new winter festival

Carlow will welcome whiskey lovers for its first Carlow Whiskey Festival on 29 and 30 January 2027, with six events showcasing Irish producers and local venues.

The festival is a collaboration between Carlow Whiskey Society, Carlow County Council, Carlow Tourism and County Carlow Chamber. Organisers hope it will draw visitors during the winter season and support hospitality businesses.

The programme includes:

Friday: Walsh Whiskey at Scraggs, 7pm–8.30pm; W.D. O'Connell at The Irishmans, 9pm–11pm.
Saturday: Royal Oak Distillery tour, noon–1.30pm; Killowen Distillery at Tully's, 2pm–3.30pm.
Saturday: Redacted Bottlers at Ewings, 5.30pm–7.30pm; Bushmills Distillery at Teach Dolmain, 8.30pm–10.30pm.

Speaking for the whiskey society, Ivor McLoughlin said the festival was “a fantastic opportunity to showcase the quality, diversity and innovation that exists across the Irish whiskey sector”. Mayor Ken Murnane said it would strengthen Carlow's reputation for quality events, while economic development and enterprise head Kieran Comerford said such partnerships could support local businesses and build the visitor economy. Tickets are on sale through Eventbrite. Early booking is recommended as capacity is limited.

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