Get ready for a true Southern celebration at Smoke & Barrel, returning this November for a weekend packed with the best in bourbon, whiskey, craft cocktails, and legendary barbecue. Each fall, downtown Lake Charles transforms as the festival brings together pitmasters, distillers, live music, and local artisans beneath the live oaks at the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse.
Event Location:
1000 Ryan St.
Lake Charles, LA 70601
Contact:
info@smokeandbarrel.org
Price:
TBA
Time:
1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Recurrence:
Recurring daily
Dates:
November 22, 2025 - November 23, 2025
Website:
Visit Website
Founded in 2018, Smoke & Barrel has quickly become a can’t-miss event for foodies, whiskey fans, and anyone looking to experience the culture and hospitality of Southwest Louisiana. This multi-day festival offers something for everyone—from exclusive VIP tastings and distiller’s dinners to free concerts, unique arts and crafts, and plenty of incredible food.
Event Info
What to Expect:
- Grand Tasting Event: Sample from nearly 100 bourbons, whiskeys, and scotches, and enjoy unlimited BBQ from some of the region’s best vendors. VIP tickets put you front and center for live music, with access to exclusive pours, food, and drinks.
- Live Music & Artisans: Enjoy live performances from top local and regional bands, plus shop handcrafted goods from talented local makers.
- Cocktail Royale: In the weeks leading up, Lake Charles’ top bars and restaurants battle it out with their best bourbon-based cocktails. The competition wraps with a finale party, featuring tastings and awards.
- Meet the Makers Dinner: An intimate dinner pairing guests with the master distillers and founders behind your favorite spirits, plus unique bites and rare pours.
- Smokin’ Brunch: Finish the weekend with a laid-back brunch, complete with bourbon cocktails and Southern favorites.
General Admission Areas are free, so even if you don’t have a ticket to the tastings, you can still enjoy the music, atmosphere, local vendors, and delicious food for purchase.
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend in Lake Charles, Smoke & Barrel is all about celebrating great taste, local music, and true community spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Smoke & Barrel 2025?
Smoke & Barrel takes place November 22-23, 2025, in downtown Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Where is the festival held?
The main events are hosted on the lawn of the Calcasieu Parish Courthouse, 1000 Ryan St., Lake Charles, LA.
Do I need tickets for Smoke & Barrel?
VIP and Grand Tasting events require tickets, but general admission areas with music and artisan vendors are free and open to all.
What’s included with VIP tickets?
VIP tickets include front-row access to live music, tastings of nearly 100 bourbons and whiskeys, unlimited BBQ, access to beer and wine, and discounted hotel rates.
Can I bring kids or pets?
The Grand Tasting is 21+ only. However, general admission areas are family-friendly, but pets are not allowed unless they are service animals.
Will there be food for sale if I don’t have a tasting ticket?
Yes, local food vendors will have items for sale in the general admission area, and you can enjoy live music and shopping.
How do I enter the Cocktail Royale competition?
Participating bars and restaurants are listed on the festival website. Visit, taste, and vote for your favorite bourbon cocktail in the weeks leading up to the event.