Michigan Craft Distillers Festival Debuts in Monroe This September
Spirits are high as Monroe welcomes the inaugural Michigan Craft Distillers Festival, taking place September 11–13, 2025, in the heart of downtown. This exciting new festival will celebrate Michigan’s world-class distilling scene with three spirited days of tastings, live entertainment, local food, and unique programming.
Craft spirit lovers will have the unique opportunity to sample handcrafted cocktails and small batch pours from some of the most celebrated distilleries in the state, including:
- Ann Arbor Distilling
- Detroit City Distillery
- Grand Traverse Distillery
- Gypsy Distillery – High Five Spirits
- Iron Fish Distillery
- Journeyman Distilling
- Les Cheneaux Distillery
- Long Road Distillers
- Mammoth Distilling
- New Holland Brewing
- Two James Spirits
- Wonderland Distilling
Festivalgoers can expect immersive experiences such as distiller-led programs, cocktail crafting, and live music performances—all set against the charming backdrop of Monroe’s historic downtown and scenic River Raisin waterfront. Local food and craft vendors will round out the experience!
“We’re thrilled to bring together Michigan’s top craft distillers for an event that highlights the creativity and craftsmanship of our state’s spirits industry from grain to glass,” said Scott Bentley, Michigan Craft Distillers Festival Organizer. “This festival is about more than tasting—it’s about community, culture, and supporting Michigan businesses.”
Explore Monroe, the primary festival sponsor, is proud to champion this one-of-a-kind event for the region. “Michigan’s craft distillers are gaining recognition across the country for their creativity and quality,” said Justin Gifford, Executive Director of Explore Monroe. “We’re proud to bring these award-winning makers to Monroe and give visitors a chance to experience the best of Michigan spirits in one unforgettable weekend.”
Single-day admission for the festival starts at $30, two-day admission is $50. Hotel and shuttle service packages are available. A VIP Exclusive Bourbon on the River experience leading into two days of celebrating grain-to-glass craftsmanship will kick off on Thursday, September 11 with heavy hors d’oeuvres, exclusive cocktails, live music, and neat bourbon pours. Tickets can be purchased by visiting michigancraftdistillersfestival.com.
The Michigan Craft Distillers Festival is being held in partnership with the Michigan Craft Distillers Association, Michigan Wine and Beer Portal, Explore Monroe, Imperial Beverage, the City of Monroe, and Michigan Craft Distilleries.
Must be 21 years of age to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol.