Headhouse Square’s popular Whiskey Bonanza is back for its 11th year.
Hosted by the Southern-inspired Twisted Tail restaurant at 509 S. 2nd St., the night features a signature southern pig roast, live music, a bartending cocktail competition and plenty of whiskey-themed festivities, featuring more than 100 brands of the signature spirit.
Taking place on Sept. 25, Whiskey Bonanza begins with a special VIP hour at 6 p.m., followed by regular festivities from 7-10 p.m.
It’s a celebration of Bourbon Heritage Month, offering causal and experienced whiskey drinkers a smorgasbord of variety.
“The Twisted Tail has always been rooted in our passion for bourbon and blues, so Whiskey Bonanza feels like our own holiday celebration,” said George Reilly, Master Craftsman and proprietor of The Twisted Tail. “Hosting it during Bourbon Heritage Month is no accident — bourbon is a true American classic. And to celebrate it right here in the birthplace of America adds an extra layer of meaning and tradition.”
Tickets for the Whiskey Bonanza are $65 for general admission and $85 for VIP. There is also a $40 designated driver option available for those looking to only enjoy the victuals and not imbibe. Tickets can be purchased at whiskeybonanza.com, in person at The Twisted Tail or via phone at 215-558-2471.
Attendees will play a large role in the festivities as they will vote on the winners of the cocktail competition. Deke’s BBQ food truck will be on-site serving up slow-cooked barbecue, while Reverend Chris will be playing live New Orleans Style Jazz and Blues piano all night. The Twisted Tail is introducing a special and highly aerated cigar lounge in the form of a fully revamped Airstream parked right outside of the restaurant.
Those looking to get an early start can opt for a special VIP hour with early admission at 6 p.m., enabling access to rare and hard-to-find whiskeys not available during the main event. The VIP hour also gives guests an early opportunity to enjoy the traditional Suckling Pig Roast.
The party doesn’t end there. The Twisted Tail will host weekly happy hours every Friday in September from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. highlighting featured distilleries. Bourbon and whiskey lovers will enjoy complimentary pours, limited cocktails, distillery insights and branded swag. The happy hours are free to attend and pay as you go.
“The story of American whiskey begins right here in Pennsylvania, where 17th-century settlers sowed rye in fertile soil and transformed their harvest into something enduring,” said Reilly. “There’s poetry in that history — grit, craft and celebration. At The Twisted Tail, we aim to honor that legacy by curating a rich collection of brown spirits year-round and bringing people together for Whiskey Bonanza, a night that celebrates not just the spirit itself, but its journey through time.”