Jim Beam encourages responsible drinking. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation. By entering this website, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Cookie Policy.
*Must be legal drinking age to enter this site.
National Bourbon Day 2026: Another Chance to Celebrate Together
Need a little inspiration to plan how you’ll raise a glass with friends and celebrate National Bourbon Day 2026? Don’t worry—Jim Beam’s got you covered.
We firmly believe that the best kind of day is one where you can kick back with your crew, enjoy some good times—and an even better bourbon. And if that day happens to be National Bourbon Day, even better! At its core, this date is just that: one more opportunity to celebrate together. It takes place every year on June 14th—so in 2026, mark your calendar.
Need a little inspiration to plan how you’ll raise a glass with friends? We’ve got you covered.
What Day Is National Bourbon Day — and Why?
National Bourbon Day is celebrated every year on June 14—but why that date? While the exact origins of the celebration are a little hazy (as good stories sometimes are), the day itself honors bourbon’s official recognition as “America’s Native Spirit,” a title granted by the U.S. Congress in 1964. June 14 has since become the moment to raise a glass to a spirit that’s uniquely American, rooted in tradition and made to be shared.
Beyond the date, this day is about celebrating the story of bourbon and craftsmanship behind every bottle. It pays tribute to generations of distillers—especially in Kentucky, which produces around 95% of the world’s bourbon—and to the pride, patience, and know-how that define this iconic spirit. In other words, it’s not just about bourbon. It’s about the people and stories behind it.
What Is Bourbon, Exactly?
Bourbon is a distinctly American whiskey—so if you’ve ever wondered “Is Bourbon whiskey?” the answer is yes. The real conversation is the difference between Bourbon and whiskey. To be called bourbon, it must be made in the United States from a mash bill that’s at least 51% corn, distilled to a specific proof, and aged at least two years in new charred oak barrels. No shortcuts. No additives for flavor or color. Just time, wood, and know-how doing what they’ve always done.
That process is what gives bourbon its signature character—notes of vanilla, caramel, oak, and a touch of sweetness from the corn. And while it can be made anywhere in the U.S., its heart has long been in Kentucky, where generations of distillers have perfected the craft. The result? A spirit that’s bold, smooth, and made to be enjoyed your way—neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a classic cocktail.
How to Celebrate Bourbon Day
It’s no secret that the best way to celebrate special bourbon days is, of course, by drinking it. But there are plenty of ways to make National Bourbon Day a day to remember—beyond just pouring a glass of good whiskey and enjoying good company and sunshine.
Bourbon Day Celebration Ideas
Try a Jim Beam® Bottle You Haven’t Tasted Yet
It’s easy to stick to your go-to bourbon once you’ve found the one you love. But part of the magic of whiskey is exploring new flavors, expressions, and turning every pour into a new experience.
So why not take Bourbon Day as the perfect excuse to discover something new? We recommend you and your friends make a list of the Jim Beam expressions you’ve been curious about, pick a couple, and dive in. With summer just around the corner, maybe you’ll reach for our Sunshine Blend or our latest addition to the family: Jim Beam® Pineapple. Who said Kentucky couldn’t mix with the Tropics?
Experiment with Some Bourbon Cocktails
Whether you’re not into drinking it neat or you’re just in the mood for something fun, National Bourbon Day is the perfect excuse for a Bourbon Cocktail Party.
But before you grab the shaker and go ingredient shopping, check out our selection of mixed drinks and pick out the most refreshing bourbon cocktails. Classics are always a win, but don’t be afraid to try something new—like turning your go-to Highball into a Pineapple Highball, or giving your Mint Julep a twist with Jim Beam® Orange for a sweet, citrusy kick.
Visit Us at Our Kentucky Distillery!
Ready to take things a step further with a little adventure? If you’re near Clermont—or up for a quick getaway—you’re more than welcome at our Kentucky distillery! Book one of our bourbon tours or tasting experiences and get ready for a great day. Make it even more memorable with a meal at The Kitchen Table Restaurant, and turn your National Bourbon Day into a full-on celebration.
Get Fancy for the Occasion with Our Official Merchandise
How could you celebrate one of the biggest bourbon days of the year without dressing the part? Head over to our official bourbon merchandising store and get everything you need to be fully ready for the occasion: t-shirts, caps, and even glassware—so the Jim Beam spirit is with you in every moment of the celebration. We love raising a glass with you!
