BARDSTOWN, Ky. — National Bourbon Day is here and where better to celebrate than in the bourbon capital of the world.

When asked what bourbon means to people in Bardstown, it only took one word.

“In a word it means everything. It means economic impact, it means jobs for our locals, we have many local families that have worked at the same distillery for generations and it means food on the table for them, it means a great income,” Sam Lacy, executive director of Bourbon Capital Community Alliance said. 

Although National Bourbon Day isn’t until June 14, Bardstown  decided to celebrate early by hosting a National Bourbon Day opening ceremony, which included several announcements for about the future of bourbon.

“My organization, the Bourbon Capital Community Alliance, announced two initiatives, the Bourbon Capital Guild, a premium bourbon society here in Bardstown as well as the Bourbon Capital Academy, upcoming classes here, bourbon education classes here in Bardstown,” Lacy said.

The Bardstown/Nelson County Tourism Commission also announced a Bardstown special bottle release in September.

Organizers say the day was about celebrating the 11 distilleries within the 16 miles of Bardstown and what they have to offer.

“One thing people don't understand about our distilleries is that they are our best community partners as well. Everyone understands that bourbon is big but they pay Bardstown back in sponsorships and community involvement way more than we ever asked,” Lacy said.

The Kentucky Bourbon Festival announced a brand-new event coming in 2022, the Bourbon Capital Barbecue Cookoff. The event will occur during National Bourbon Day next year.