overview of the craft distillers expo
The Craft Distillers Expo is one of the most prominent trade events dedicated to the booming craft distilling industry across the United States. Rotating between key distilling hubs such as Louisville, Kentucky, Denver, Colorado, and Nashville, Tennessee, the event provides a critical platform for distillers, suppliers, investors, and enthusiasts to converge, explore trends, discover innovations, and foster long-term partnerships.

The expo is an immersive showcase of everything related to craft spirits—from artisanal distilleries to advanced equipment suppliers, from educational sessions to curated tastings. It’s the definitive event for staying ahead in the evolving spirits industry.

venue and location details
The Craft Distillers Expo is typically hosted in major distilling cities known for their legacy and contribution to the American spirits industry. For example:

• Louisville, Kentucky: Often hosted at the Kentucky International Convention Center.
• Denver, Colorado: Regularly held at the Colorado Convention Center.
• Nashville, Tennessee: Frequently organized at the Music City Center.

Each venue is strategically chosen based on regional distilling significance, accessibility, and available infrastructure to accommodate thousands of visitors.

dates and timings
The expo usually occurs annually between late August and early October, depending on the host city. The event typically spans three days, with the following schedule:

• Day 1: Opening ceremony, keynote speakers, and exhibition launch
• Day 2: Technical workshops, product demonstrations, and panel discussions
• Day 3: Industry networking, awards, and closing remarks

Standard timings run from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, with some evening events or tastings held until 9:00 PM.

visitor profile and attendance
The Craft Distillers Expo attracts a diverse range of participants from across the globe, including:

• Craft distillers and spirit brand owners
• Equipment manufacturers and technology providers
• Raw material and packaging suppliers
• Hospitality industry professionals
• Retailers and wholesalers
• Beverage distributors and importers
• Industry consultants, marketers, and journalists

On average, the expo welcomes over 8,000 visitors and 450+ exhibitors per edition, depending on the city and year.

product and exhibitor categories
The expo floor showcases a rich array of product categories, covering the full spectrum of the craft distilling supply chain. Exhibitor categories include:

• Craft gin, whiskey, rum, vodka, and liqueur brands
• Distillation equipment and copper stills
• Bottling, labeling, and automation systems
• Oak barrels, aging technologies, and storage
• Packaging design and branding services
• Yeast cultures, botanicals, grains, and additives
• Regulatory and licensing consultants
• Eco-friendly innovations and waste management

Live demos, hands-on tastings, and educational zones create an interactive atmosphere for buyers and sellers alike.

cost of attendance
Ticket pricing varies depending on attendee type and access level:

• General Admission (1-day): Approx. $50–$75
• Full Event Pass (3-day access): $120–$200
• VIP Experience (includes tastings and networking events): $300–$500
• Exhibitor Packages: Vary from $1,000–$5,000 depending on booth size and benefits

Early bird discounts are typically available, along with special rates for students and startups.

educational benefits and professional perks
Attendees enjoy exclusive access to:

• Workshops and Masterclasses: Led by expert distillers and consultants
• Panel Discussions: Covering licensing, supply chain challenges, brand scaling, and sustainability
• Tasting Labs: Where industry professionals can evaluate new and award-winning spirits
• One-on-One Business Meetings: Facilitated through a matchmaking app for strategic connections
• Tech Talks: Focused on automation, AI, and digital marketing for distilleries

These sessions not only educate but also help distillers future-proof their businesses.

networking opportunities
With a large presence of industry stakeholders, the event is ideal for:

• Finding investors or business partners
• Discovering distributors or retail channels
• Connecting with packaging and design experts
• Sourcing local and international ingredients
• Engaging with media and influencers to amplify brand presence

The Expo also hosts exclusive networking mixers, evening galas, and award ceremonies that create a relaxed space for fostering long-term relationships.

nearby accommodations
Depending on the host city, there are several hotel options that provide convenience and comfort:

Louisville, KY (Kentucky International Convention Center)

• The Galt House Hotel (3-minute walk)
• Omni Louisville Hotel (2-minute walk)
• Embassy Suites by Hilton Downtown Louisville (adjacent to venue)

Denver, CO (Colorado Convention Center)

• Hyatt Regency Denver
• Grand Hyatt Denver
• Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown

Nashville, TN (Music City Center)

• Omni Nashville Hotel
• JW Marriott Nashville
• Hilton Garden Inn Nashville Downtown

Hotels often offer discounts for registered expo attendees, and early bookings are highly recommended due to high demand during the event period.

who should attend the expo
This expo is perfect for:

• New entrants planning to launch a distillery
• Existing distillers aiming to expand or modernize
• Entrepreneurs looking to source private-label products
• Designers, marketers, and technologists entering the alcohol industry
• Investors scouting scalable brands and innovations
• Government and licensing authorities involved in craft regulation

The Craft Distillers Expo is tailored not only for the technical side of production but also for the business and branding aspects that drive the craft spirits industry.

why you should not miss this event

• Discover trends in sustainable packaging, automation, and botanical innovation
• Build relationships with high-level decision-makers and key suppliers
• Gain insights from market data presentations and future forecasts
• Get certified via workshops and official training sessions
• Experience the culture of American craft distilling from grain to glass

The expo acts as a launchpad for brands, a growth hub for suppliers, and an inspiration source for professionals across the distilling world.

how to participate
Whether you want to exhibit, sponsor, or attend as a visitor, the process is straightforward through the official Craft Distillers Expo website. Registrations typically open 4 to 6 months in advance, and booth spaces are in high demand.

It’s recommended to subscribe to event newsletters and follow their official channels to get updates on the final venue, dates, speaker list, and travel partnerships.