The annual whisky culture festival, beloved by gourmets, “Riga Whisky & Friends” will return on September 13, culminating in the historic Riga Circus building. The event, organized by the “Riga Wine & Champagne” team in collaboration with Lauris Grass from “Mākonis” and “Drink Masterclasses,” will bring together and present more than 150 of the best whiskies, cocktails, world-class experts, chefs, and a wide audience of visitors and connoisseurs from across the Baltics.

First held in September 2024, “Riga Whisky & Friends” is designed as a top-tier showcase of whisky and other fine spirits, giving visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about drink culture in a special atmosphere. In the main circus arena, balcony, courtyard, and “Horse Stable” area, leading whisky (and beyond) brands will offer the chance to discover and taste nearly 150 world-renowned whiskies. Guests will also enjoy a cocktail bar featuring the best bartenders, a cigar lounge, good music, and other inseparable friends of whisky culture.

Gastronomic delights will be provided by Latvia’s top chefs and restaurants, including Māris Jansons from “Kest” with specially paired dishes and oysters, “Bao Bun” with burgers, and “MeatMe” with some of the world’s finest steaks. It will be a great opportunity not only to discover the world of whisky but also to enjoy outstanding food, relax, meet people, and soak up the early autumn atmosphere.

A special highlight of the festival will be the visit of world-class whisky guru Ron Welsh. With over 30 years of experience and as the former Master Blender for “Beam Suntory,” Ron has created more than 140 new whiskies for prestigious brands such as Laphroaig, Bowmore, and Auchentoshan. Festival guests will have an exclusive opportunity to meet the expert and join Ron’s masterclasses on September 13 at the Riga Circus, as well as hear his stories at the festival’s opening dinner on September 12, where Māris Jansons and Kest will pair dishes with Ron’s whiskies at the Benjamin House cocktail bar.

When?
 Friday, September 12
 18:00 – “The Magic of Whisky” dinner with Ron Welsh at Benjamin House Cocktail Bar

Saturday, September 13
 16:00 – 23:00 – Riga Whisky & Friends parade, masterclasses, and chefs at Riga Circus
 22:00 – 02:00 – Riga Whisky & Friends afterparty at Benjamin House
The detailed Whisky Parade masterclass program, as well as information on the September 12 dinner and afterparty, will be announced soon. 
More info: https://www.rigawhiskyfriends.com/