Image credit: https://outerbanksdistilling.com/
The Outer Banks Rum Festival is an annual event that celebrates the rich history and culture of rum. This event is an absolute must for rum enthusiasts, connoisseurs with a taste for refined flavors, and anyone in search of an unforgettable experience.
It presents a one-of-a-kind opportunity to indulge in sampling the finest rums sourced globally, while also providing a valuable chance to expand their knowledge of the art of rum-making through the guidance of industry experts.
When and Where: All About the Outer Banks Rum Festival
The Outer Banks Rum Festival is the place to be in if you happen to be around in June next year. Rum enthusiasts and fun-seekers alike gather at The Pavilion at Pirate's Cove Marina in Manteo, North Carolina to celebrate the spirit of rum.
This comprehensive all-day event runs from 12 pm to 6 pm and promises an abundance of delights. Over a dozen renowned rum brands and distilleries showcase their offerings, treating attendees to a plethora of tastings and cocktails.
Visitors have the opportunity to sample an impressive selection of rums from various corners of the globe. There’s live music to keep the party going all day long. Once you've had your fill of rum tastings, you can grab some island-inspired fare like jerk chicken, fish tacos or Key lime pie.
The proceeds of the festival go to Beach Food Pantry, a non-profit looking after the food requirements of the needy.
Sessions At the Event
At the event, you can look forward to numerous educational opportunities to deepen your understanding of rum. These learning experiences will cover both general knowledge about rum as well as detailed insights shared by the participating brands.
Whether you're a novice looking to expand your rum expertise or a seasoned enthusiast seeking to discover the unique stories and techniques behind each brand, the festival offers a wealth of information to satisfy your curiosity.
You can take advantage of these enlightening sessions and gain a newfound appreciation for the world of rum.
- Spirits Industry Session | From 3 pm to 4:30 pm
The Spirit Industry Session caters specifically to professionals in the trade, such as restaurant owners, bar managers, retailers of beer and spirits, and beverage media representatives. This exclusive session grants industry insiders access to the event for a duration of 1.5 hours.
It's important to note that this session is exclusively reserved for individuals affiliated with the trade, and when registering for tickets, it is crucial to indicate your affiliation in the company field. Credentials may be requested to ensure eligibility for this specialized session.
- VIP Tasting Session | From 3 pm to 8:00 pm
This premium package grants you 4.5 hours of immersion, providing ample time for engaging conversations with esteemed distillers and brand ambassadors. Delve deeper into the world of rum as you explore possible additional expressions and indulge in the finest offerings.
In addition, you'll have VIP Lounge access to unwind and enjoy the event's ambiance. The VIP Tasting Session also includes a specially designed tasting glass, two drink tickets redeemable for delightful cocktails, and the opportunity to attend public seminars.
- General Admission Tasting Session | From 5 pm to 8:00 pm
With the General Admission Tasting Session, you can join the event for duration of 3 hours. Alongside your admission, you will receive a designated tasting glass to enhance your sampling experience. As a ticket holder, you can attend public seminars, but availability may be limited, so registration is recommended.
On-site ticket purchases, if available, will incur an extra $25 fee per ticket. This fee can be avoided by purchasing your tickets in advance. Furthermore, while food may be included, it is important to note that for the best selection of food and rum offerings, opting for a VIP ticket is highly recommended.
- Designated Drivers | From 3 pm to 8:00 pm
This pass grants you access to the event while ensuring no drinking is allowed. As a designated driver, you will not receive a sampling glass, but you will be provided with food and non-alcoholic beverages.
It's important to note that if you initially join as a designated driver but later decide to partake in the event, you will have the option to upgrade your ticket on-site to either VIP or General Admission status, allowing you to indulge in the offerings.
However, if a designated driver is observed tasting or consuming alcoholic beverages, immediate removal from the premises will occur, and no opportunity to upgrade will be permitted at that time.
Must-Try Rums and Cocktails at the Festival
With over a dozen rums and cocktails to sample, you’ll want to pace yourself. Some must-try rums and cocktails to put on your list:
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Kill Devil Rum from North Carolina: This award-winning rum is used in refreshing cocktails at the fest like the Flyer (with passion fruit and lime) and Passion fruit Daiquiri.
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Mount Gay Barbados Rum: Although delightful when enjoyed on their own, it harmoniously infuses its intricate flavors into cocktails.
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Plantation O.F.T.D. Overproof Rum from Jamaica: This high-proof rum packs a punch at 69