Spirit of Speyside Distilled drinks festival returns for 10th anniversary 

The drinks festival is back in the Highlands this September.

After a record-breaking Spirit of Speyside Festival, the celebrations continue into the autumn as tickets are now on sale for the 10th anniversary of Distilled, the popular two-day spirits and craft beer event.

Following a one-year hiatus while Elgin Town Hall undergoes major refurbishment, Distilled returns on Friday 11th and Saturday 12th September 2026 at the Alexander Graham Bell Centre at UHI Moray in Elgin, bringing together more than 20 drink producers from across Speyside.

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While whisky remains a major attraction in the area, Distilled is about much more than Scotland’s national drink.  The event shines a spotlight on Speyside’s vibrant community of craft producers, allowing visitors to discover everything from whisky and gin to beer and other premium spirits, all under one roof.

Distilled festival

Three sessions are available, starting on Friday evening at 6pm, followed by two sessions on the Saturday at 11am and 4pm.  Attendance is limited to just 150 visitors per session, and organisers expect tickets to sell out quickly.

Speyside brands confirmed include The Glenlivet, Aberlour, Gordon & MacPhail, Strathisla, Benriach, The GlenAllachie and Cardhu.  Gin enthusiasts can enjoy samples from Red Door and Byrons Gin.

Visitors will be able to choose from three passes for each session with the line-up still being finalised.  A Discovery Pass gives access to the event where you can sample from each stand at your own pace.

The Masterclass Pass includes two exclusive 45-minute Masterclasses. Confirmed brands so far include Glen Moray, Elixir Distillers and Speyburn. If you prefer a more laid-back experience guests can opt for the Premium Pass with access to a chill-out area and two exclusive pours from Speyside brands.

Henry Angus, chairman of the festivals, said: “It’s wonderful to be back with Distilled after a break last year. While the venue has changed, the enthusiasm from Speyside producers remains as strong as ever.  

“Distilled creates a fantastic opportunity for visitors to have the chance to meet the people behind the brands, sample fantastic products and experience the incredible diversity of drinks production across the region.”

Tickets for Distilled 2026 are on sale now, with an Early Bird special discounted price for Friday evening of £35 for the Discovery Pass until 24 July.  After that, tickets will go on sale at £40. All tickets include a Glencairn Crystal glass with a lanyard.  

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There will only be 25 Premium Passes available at £60, which gives access to the Premium Lounge where there will be exclusive pours during each session. A limited number of Early Bird tickets will be available on Friday evening at £55, subject to availability.

There will only be 25 Masterclass Passes at £70 and this includes a deeper insight into the drams and heritage behind the brands. A limited number of Early Bird tickets will be available at £65, subject to availability.

Find out more and buy at the Spirit of Speyside website.

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UHI Moray, Moray Street, Elgin, UK
UHI Moray, Moray Street, Elgin, UK, IV30 1JJ
Known for cake making, experimental jam recipes, Champagne, whisky and gin drinking (and the inability to cook Gnocchi), Rosalind is the Food and Drink Editor and whisky writer for The Scotsman, as well as hosting Scran, The Scotsman's food and drink podcast.
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