Help centre
Questions, answered
Everything people ask us before, during and after Belfast Whiskey Week — searchable, in one place.
Tickets & booking
How do tickets work?
Everything is booked through this site. Tickets arrive by email the moment you check out — show them on your phone at the door. No printing, no box office.
Can I get a refund or swap dates?
[VERIFY POLICY] Tickets are generally non-refundable, but if an event is cancelled you'll get a full refund automatically. Need to swap a date? Contact us as early as possible and we'll do our best if there's availability.
Do events sell out?
Yes — small tastings go first. Check the Sold-Out Board for live availability, and book anything you care about early.
Can I buy tickets on the door?
Only if the event hasn't sold out — and the good ones do. Booking online is always safer, and the last-minute page shows everything still available today.
At the events
Do I need to know anything about whiskey?
No. Every event is hosted and beginners are expected everywhere. If you're nervous, start with the first-timer's guide.
What's the age policy?
All events are 18+ and Challenge 25 applies at every venue — bring photo ID even if it's been a while since anyone asked.
What should I wear?
Whatever you'd wear to a nice pub. No event at the festival has a dress code.
Is there food?
Depends on the event — dinners and BIA Fest pairings obviously, and many tastings include bites. Each event page lists what's included. Either way: eat before an evening tasting. Trust us.
Can I come if I don't drink whiskey?
Yes — cocktail events, food events and walking tours all work for non-whiskey drinkers, and venues can sort soft options for designated drivers.
Getting there & staying
Where are the venues?
Almost everything is in a walkable triangle — City Hall, Cathedral Quarter, Sailortown. The Whiskey Map shows every venue; Getting Around covers walking times, Gliders, trains and taxis.
Where should I stay?
Inside the festival triangle if you can — see Where to Stay. Two of the hotels on that list are festival venues themselves.
I'm coming from Dublin — is a day trip realistic?
Very. The Enterprise train lands at Grand Central Station, two minutes' walk from the EXPO — book the train, book your events, and see Getting Around for the rest.
Planning your week
What should I book first?
The EXPO if you want the big day, a walking tour or Try 3 Drams if you're easing in. New to it all? Start with the First-Timer's Guide.
How does 'Your Week' work?
As you add tickets, the Your Week drawer groups them by day so you can watch your festival take shape — and spot the gaps that need filling.
I'm on a budget — where do I start?
Events under £30 lists everything affordable, live. A brilliant first day costs about £50 all-in, food included.
Still stuck? Ask a human
We answer quickly — quicker still during festival week.