Ypsi Bourbon Fest offers rare bourbons, plus tequila, beer, and wine, in 5th year

On the Ground Ypsilanti is an “embedded journalism” program covering the city and township of Ypsilanti. It is supported by Ann Arbor SPARK, the Center for Health and Research Transformation, Destination Ann Arbor, Eastern Michigan University, Engage @ EMU, Washtenaw Community College, Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, and Washtenaw ISD.

Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest will bring an expanded list of more than 100 local and rare spirits back to the Michigan Firehouse Museum, 110 W. Cross St. in Ypsilanti, on Jan. 17. Event organizers say the event has grown substantially each year since its debut in 2022, with this year’s being one of the most ambitious yet.

The event’s biggest offering for 2026 will be Double Eagle Very Rare 20 Year, considered one of the rarest bourbons in the world. Festival organizer Paul Starr says this marks the first time the elusive pour, referred to simply as “The One,” has ever been offered at the event. The bourbon will be just one of 20 new bottles available to VIP ticket holders, each available in exchange for sample tickets that are issued to each attendee.

“From one ticket to 40 tickets, there’s so many fantastic bourbons on the VIP list,” Starr says. “This year we have made a point to feature Michigan distilleries in the VIP list.”

Alongside Double Eagle, standout pours include Calumet Farm 18 Year and Russell’s Reserve 13 Year Batch 1. Featured Michigan brands include Detroit’s Two James Spirits, Ferndale’s Valentine Distilling Co., and Freeland’s EverNorth Spirits – a personal favorite of Starr’s.

“[EverNorth Spirits] are local, good humans, and they make fantastic blends,” Starr says. “A good pour for about $70 per bottle is a good value.”

Beyond bourbon, attendees will notice expanded options across the board. Tequila will be available to both general admission and VIP attendees for the first time, along with a broader beer and wine selection. The additions are designed to make the festival more inclusive while maintaining its core focus on high-quality spirits.

The Michigan Firehouse Museum continues to play a central role in shaping the event’s atmosphere. After three years at the Ypsilanti Freighthouse, the festival changed venues due to growth. Starr says the change has been the best move for the festival’s continued expansion and popularity. 

“It was the right move because the Firehouse Museum has been great to work with,” he says. “The Firehouse Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum that transforms the event. I love the place!”

Ypsilanti Bourbon Fest will hold two sessions on Jan. 17, starting at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. For ticket details and a full list of spirits on offer, visit the event’s website.