The preview of events for The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival 2024 launches today (25 January) when the world celebrates Robert Burns with a dram, giving attendees a few days to peruse over 650 events before ticket sales officially open at 12pm on the 31 January.
Celebrity chef and whisky fan Tony Singh helped launch the prestigious festival by heading to The Glenlivet in Speyside and naturally celebrated with a dram.
Of this year's festival, he said, “This is one of the best whisky festivals globally and I’m looking forward to coming back with my family in May to go to some of the events.
"Having recently invested in a cask, I must confess – I'm head over heels for a good malt or blend, especially when it's a delightful addition to my culinary creations. So, what better day than Burns birthday to toast the festival launch.”
Speyside is home to over 50 distilleries and is the largest whisky producing region in Scotland.
As well as being the 25th anniversary of the Spirit of Speyside Festival, 2024 also marks the 200th anniversary of many Speyside distilleries. These include The Macallan, The Glenlivet, Miltonduff, Cardhu and Balmenach.
From history makers to newcomers, the distilling story continues as the Festival welcomes brand new distillery Dunphail, who will be opening its doors to Festival goers for the first time this year.
With 19 villages and towns taking part, the festival provides a huge boost to the local economy attracting thousands of visitors each year, with almost 40% of them coming from overseas, 20% from the local area and the rest from all corners of the UK.
George McNeil, chair of The Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, said; “It’s incredible to think this is the 25th year of the festival and it continues to grow in size and stature.
"The distilleries in Speyside that take part make it a truly unique festival. It’s a chance for visitors to immerse themselves in the whisky world with world-class experiences, behind the scenes tours, visit distilleries that don’t normally open their doors to the public and enjoy a few days in this beautiful part of the world.
"I think this year will be our biggest and best yet so would encourage people to book early to avoid disappointment.”
Previews for ticket sales go live at 12pm on 25 January
Launch of ticket sales is live at 12pm on 31 January
To find out more and buy tickets, visit the Spirit of Speyside website.
