Hard Truth Bourbon & BBQ Festival

Get ready for a smoky, savory, and spirited weekend at the Hard Truth Bourbon & BBQ Festival. Join us at Hard Truth Distilling Co. on July 26, 2025, for an unforgettable celebration of bourbon, BBQ, and good times.

Schedule:

12:00PM – 9:00 PM – Live Music at the Outdoor Amphitheater: Groove to live music throughout the day in our scenic outdoor amphitheater.
- Arianna & The Bourbon Britches
- Eric Hamblen Band
- Nick Dittmeier & the Sawdusters
- Justin Wells

2:00 PM – 6:00 PM – BBQ Competition & People’s Choice Tasting Presented by Great White Smoke
- Official Judging: Sanctioned by Kentuckiana BBQ Pitmasters, this competition will be judged by certified BBQ judges to ensure fairness, integrity, and professional scoring standards.
- Special Guest Judges & Ambassadors: Bryan Smith (Master Distiller), Jeff McCabe, Nate Spangle, and Sandy Jones will participate in select tastings and public-facing segments throughout the event.
- People’s Choice Tasting: Sample mouthwatering BBQ from competing pitmasters and cast your vote for the best.
- Meet & Greet Sessions: Throughout the day, meet celebrity chef James “BBQ” Grubs (fan favorite on Season 1 of Netflix’s The Great American BBQ) during his live cooking demos, pitmasters, competitive food eaters, and Master Distiller Bryan Smith.

Here’s What You Can Expect:

Bourbon & BBQ Tastings & Pairings
Bourbon blending & cocktail crafting classes.
VIP Bourbon & Cigar Lounge.
Bourbon & BBQ Marketplace 
Interactive Competitions & Outdoor Activities:
- Bourbon Barrel Roll Races
- BBQ Toss & Cornhole Tournament ($10 entry, $300 prize)
- Axe Throwing

Don’t miss out on this incredible celebration of bourbon, BBQ, and community. Mark your calendars for July 26, 2025, and join us at Hard Truth Distilling Co. 

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