Galaxy Whisky Gala 2026

The third annual Galaxy Whisky Gala presents whiskies from around the world for whisky enthusiasts and aficionados to sample and learn about, all while enjoying delectable morsels, music, our Live Auction AND Silent Auction benefiting our charity, Bears for Bairns. Join us as we open Whisky Festival Season for Austin in 2026.

General Admission includes entrance to the Galaxy Whisky Gala on Saturday, March 28th, 2026, from 7pm to10pm. Each attendee will receive a branded glass, a branded tote bag with some surprise goodies, and an opportunity for a digital photo of your red carpet entrance!

A VIP admission ticket includes all that you get for General Admission, plus an extra 1.5 hours and samples of premium whiskies. This option gives you more access to meet and chat with your favorite distillers and ambassadors before the crowd surges at 7pm, while also sipping some special pours. Entrance at 5:30pm.

An optional Whisky Knowledge Expansion Session is available to VIP ticket holders. Seats are limited for these classes and once they are scheduled, we will email you to choose your class. Once they fill up, they are no longer available. For 2026, some classes will be held prior to the event, at 4:30pm.

The event takes place at Downright Austin (formerly Sheraton at the Capitol). Rooms are available through this link. If you call to book, please mention Galaxy Whisky Gala to get the special discounted rate of $249 plus a 17% hotel tax for each room, plus an additional $5 fee. The first 25 rooms booked through our discount may receive 1 free VIP ticket. (Email catherine@galaxywhiskygala.com after you book, forwarding your confirmation.) Also note that parking at the hotel is $50, and street parking is scarce around the hotel. Please rideshare if at all possible or plan your parking ahead of time.

Dress code:

This is a formal event complete with a red carpet entrance, so wear your finest kilts, suits, and evening gowns! Attendees are expected to wear appropriate Gala attire and will be refused entrance without it. The minimum requirement is a jacket, dress shirt, and slacks, or dressy outfits or dresses. No T-shirts, jeans, athletic wear, torn clothing or shorts allowed, and will not be admitted.

We have kilts available for purchase on our website, including an exclusive Galaxy Whisky Gala Tartan, shown here! Please also see the website for information on how you can get your own gorgeous custom made kilt in a variety of tartan designs! These kilts are lighter than kilts from Scotland so you can wear them in Texas with ease, and have many features that will delight you. A portion of the sales benefits Bears for Bairns.

By attending the Galaxy Whisky Gala, you're not just enjoying a memorable whisky experience, you're also contributing to the wonderful cause of Bears for Bairns. We look forward to seeing you there!