There are few moments in the Scotch whisky calendar that truly define the industry. The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival is one of them.
Now entering its 27th year, Spirit of Speyside whisky festival has grown into one of the largest celebrations of Scotch whisky anywhere in the world. Since its inception in 1999, it has welcomed thousands of visitors to the region each spring, and in 2026, Speyside Capital is proud to once again stand alongside fellow sponsors in support of this globally recognised event.
For Speyside Capital, supporting the festival is about more than sponsorship. It is about reinforcing our long-term commitment to the region, its producers, and the global investors and collectors who value Scotch whisky as both an asset and a cultural cornerstone.
A festival that powers the region
The impact of the festival extends far beyond the glass.
Each year, the event contributes over £2.2 million to the local economy, supporting hospitality, tourism, retail, and the many small businesses that make Speyside exceptional. Over six days, from Wednesday 29th April through the May Bank Holiday weekend, more than 600 events will take place across the region.
Visitors travel from over 40 countries, reinforcing Speyside’s position as the beating heart of Scotch whisky. With 51 working distilleries, representing more than a third of Scotland’s total, Speyside remains the most densely concentrated whisky-producing region in the country.
From Elgin and Forres to Keith, Aberlour, Dufftown, and Rothes, the entire region becomes a stage for craftsmanship, heritage and innovation.
What to expect in 2026
The immersive 2026 programme is packed with unique events for festival visitors, including:
Immersive Distillery Experiences
Festival-goers will gain access to behind-the-scenes tours, including rare visits to traditional dunnage warehouses where attendees can draw samples directly from the cask. There will be opportunities to meet Master Blenders, explore production in depth, and experience private tastings designed specifically for the festival.
The Dram Tram Returns
One of the most celebrated experiences is the return of the Dram Tram, where guests travel in the Gold Carriage from Dufftown to Keith, enjoying curated drams while taking in the Speyside landscape.
Whisky & Gastronomy
Expect whisky-paired dinners crafted by leading chefs, coopering masterclasses, fireside tastings, and even drams enjoyed on the sands of Findhorn beach.
Friday Night Ceilidh
No Scottish celebration would be complete without a ceilidh. The festival’s much-anticipated Friday night gathering will be hosted at Craigellachie Distillery, which is also celebrating its 135th anniversary this year.
Whisky School – 10th Anniversary
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the craft, the four-day Whisky School returns for its 10th year. Led by some of the industry’s most respected experts, it offers an intensive exploration of production, maturation, and market dynamics. A limited number of places remain available.
A global stage for Speyside
The festival is widely regarded as the launch of World Whisky Month – a moment when global attention turns to Scotland’s national drink and, more specifically, to Speyside.
Beyond the events themselves, visitors experience the landscape that shapes the spirit: the barley-laced air, the River Spey, and the understated luxury of the region’s hotels, guesthouses and private estates. Transport providers are extending services from Aberdeen and Inverness, making access even more seamless for day visitors and international guests.
Henry Angus, Chairman of the festival, recently noted the significant rise in visitor numbers and ticket sales over the past two years, a testament to the festival’s continued growth and international appeal.
Ticket information
For collectors, investors and whisky enthusiasts alike, April in Speyside remains unmissable.
We look forward to raising a glass in 2026.
Preview ticket sales: 12 noon, 18th February
General ticket launch: 12 noon, 24th February
Official website: https://www.spiritofspeyside.com/
