Top Whisky Festivals in Europe You Must Visit

Why are whisky festivals and events so crucial in the 21st century?

Every whisky enthusiast knows how crucial it is to test a variety of bottles and not limit yourself to the portfolio of just one distillery.

No matter your level of experience, events, closed tastings, or open days guarantee unforgettable experiences—or even forgettable ones if you overdo it. I'll be honest: consuming large doses of high-proof alcohol leads to intoxication, so be careful not to overdo it.

A tip I've used for years: every dram is a glass of water. Try to sample several bottles on-site, and remember that consuming them in quick succession will distort your perception, and subsequent whiskies may differ significantly from what you might have expected. Tip number two: sample bottles! Of course, before the event, check if the organizer allows you to take samples home.

But to the point, why are festivals so crucial? Where does the hype for a festival come from in an age of well-developed whisky sampling websites?

The festival is also a brand promotion, so you'll often find new releases from the portfolio of brands expanding their offerings.

For connoisseurs, of course, you can also find gems, old releases, and rare finds.

From basic bottles from the core range, you can often find limited editions on the shelves, or bottles that are sometimes too expensive for everyone to buy even though they'd really like to see what's inside.

I'm a huge fan of festivals myself, and I'll share a few of those taking place in the Netherlands, using my own experience. With the help of my team, I'll also give you some tips on which festivals are worth visiting in Germany and Poland.

So, the Netherlands and its whisky market naturally boast quite a large number of festivals:

The season, as you might call it, lasts almost year-round; there are significantly fewer festivals in the summer, which is understandable given the high temperatures and vacations.

Hielander Whisky Festival - which had its 13th edition this year, takes place at the Groote Kerk in Alkmaar.

As the festival's founder writes: "Discover, taste, and experience everything whisky in the historic setting of a 500-year-old church. In an area of approximately 3,000 m², whisky suppliers will showcase their finest spirits, along with Scottish and Irish delicacies, clothing, tourist information, trinkets, and plenty of whisky..."

Whisky Festival Noord Nederland

At our atmospheric location on the Suikerunieterrein in Groningen, exhibitors will take you on a delicious journey through whiskies from around the world. Scotland and Ireland are, of course, well-represented, but there are also global gems waiting to be discovered – from affordable spirits to exceptional specialty drinks for true connoisseurs.

Wageningen Whisky Festival

The 20th edition of the famous Wageningen Whisky Event will take place on Saturday, April 25th. It is one of the oldest and, according to visitors and exhibitors, one of the most enjoyable whisky events in the Netherlands! On that day, the Junushoff Theatre in Wageningen will be entirely dedicated to whisky.

Whisky in Leiden

The festival is held at the Hooglandse Kerk in Leiden. The festival features only independent whisky producers, offering unique spirits for tasting. The festival, which initially took place in a small venue with 200 guests, has grown to over 1,000 seats and is organized by Druiventuin."

Whisky Event Eindhoven

Enter a world of refined flavor and timeless charm! It's time to captivate your senses at our most exciting whisky event. Discover profound aromas, savor rich history, and savour the warmth of every drop. Whether you're a novice explorer or a seasoned connoisseur, our event promises an unforgettable journey through the finest whiskies. Discover exclusive distilleries, expand your knowledge, and share joyful moments with like minded people. Raise a toast and join us in this enchanting whisky experience. Your taste. Your adventure. Join our whisky celebration!

WTF Utrecht

A very special place in the Netherlands, an extraordinary celebration of taste and sociability. Join quiet tours and masterclasses and enjoy the whisky festival to the fullest thanks to nearly 80 exhibitors, independent bottlers, new whisky brands, and a wealth of attractions.

German Festivals

Several whisky festivals take place in Germany, but they are not as numerous or as well-known as those in Scotland or Ireland. One of the largest and most important is the Whisky Fair Festival in Limberg. Other whisky-related festivals and events in Germany can be found by following whisky forums and websites.

Whisky Fair Festival in Limburg: This is one of the largest events of its kind in Germany, held annually.

Whisky Live Germany

The debut of Whisky Live in Germany, featuring over 500 different whiskies, masterclasses, and the opportunity to meet producers and industry experts.

Polish Festivals

Several whisky festivals take place in Poland, both national and regional. The 2025 editions include the Sopot Whisky Festival, the Whisky & Friends Festival in Warsaw, the Białystok Whisky Festival, and Whisky Day Krakow.

Whisky festivals in Poland in 2025

Sopot Whisky Festival

The largest whisky festival in Poland, which this year will take place at the Sopot Hippodrome on August 22-23. At the festival, you can expect a wide selection of whiskies, rums, tequilas, gins, and other premium spirits.

Whisky & Friends Festival in Warsaw

This event is held at The Tides on the Vistula River, where you can meet representatives of the best distilleries from around the world.

Whisky Festival Białystok

The event will take place on September 5-6, offering two festival days, a rich masterclass program, and a retail zone.

Whisky Day Krakow

A traditional event in Krakow, held at Fort Kleparz, focusing not only on whisky but also on cocktail culture.