One of Philadelphia’s largest whiskey tasting events returns to Headhouse Square with more than 120 whiskeys, a suckling pig roast, live music, and more.
The Twisted Tail, the Southern-inspired contemporary American restaurant, bar, and live music venue in the heart of Headhouse Square, is raising a glass to Bourbon Heritage Month with the return of its 12th Annual Whiskey Bonanza, one of Philadelphia’s largest whiskey tasting events. Taking place on Thursday, September 24, the restaurant will welcome whiskey enthusiasts for an evening featuring more than 120 whiskeys, a bartender cocktail competition, a whole suckling pig roast, a dedicated cigar lounge, and live music running throughout the evening.
Guests can elevate the experience with VIP Hour, which begins with early admission at 6pm and includes exclusive access to rare and limited whiskeys not available during the main event, along with extra time to meet and chat with distillery representatives. VIP tickets also include first access to The Twisted Tail’s signature whole suckling pig roast, hors d’oeuvres, a cigar, and a commemorative engraved Glencairn glass.
General admission begins at 7pm and runs through 9:30pm, giving attendees the opportunity to sample more than 120 whiskeys from distilleries showcased throughout The Twisted Tail’s two floors. Guests can also taste whiskey cocktails crafted by some of Philadelphia’s top bartenders and cast their vote in the annual Whiskey Bonanza Cocktail Competition. Outside, Deke’s BBQ food truck will be serving pay-as-you-go barbecue from 8pm to 10pm, offering the perfect bite between tastings.
“Whiskey Bonanza has become one of Philly’s most sought-after whiskey festivals, celebrating whiskeys from the USA and around the world,” said George Reilly, owner of The Twisted Tail. “Guests can see, taste, and learn about more than 120 different labels all under one roof. VIP guests receive exclusive early access to rare and limited selections, along with more time to connect with distillers. We pair the tasting experience with live music, a food truck, a cocktail competition, a cigar lounge, and more. It’s a can’t-miss event for whiskey lovers.”
The celebration also pays tribute to Pennsylvania’s rich whiskey history. As one of the nation’s earliest whiskey-producing regions, Pennsylvania helped shape America’s rye whiskey tradition, with early settlers distilling surplus rye into whiskey centuries ago. That legacy continues throughout Bourbon Heritage Month at The Twisted Tail with weekly Friday happy hours spotlighting different distilleries and the restaurant’s free Bourbon Club, where members who complete the 70-plus-bottle whiskey list earn a permanent 20% discount.
Tickets for Whiskey Bonanza are $70 for general admission and $85 for VIP admission. Tickets can be purchased at whiskeybonanza.com, by phone at 215-558-2471, or in person at The Twisted Tail.
ABOUT THE TWISTED TAIL
The Twisted Tail is a stylish Southern-inspired contemporary American restaurant, bar and live music venue in the heart of Philadelphia’s Headhouse Square district — between bustling South Street district and historic, elegant Society Hill neighborhoods. The Twisted Tail features an extensive array of bourbons and whiskeys as well as expertly sourced craft beer and delicious handcrafted cocktails by restaurateur George Reilly. The Twisted Tail executes a diverse menu of contemporary cuisine with a hint of Southern accent that is perfect for sharing and enjoying.
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509 S. Second St. (across from Headhouse Shambles) • 215-558-2471