Bourbon, BBQ, and a Beautiful Drive In
ilani BBQ Fest presents Bourbon & Bites at the Ilani Cowlitz Ballroom on Saturday, June 13, starting at 4:00 PM PT. If craft bourbon, competition-worthy BBQ, and a lively tasting atmosphere are your kind of evening, this one’s worth clearing your Saturday for.
The good news: you’re heading indoors. The Cowlitz Ballroom takes care of the rest — once you’re through the doors, the weather doesn’t follow you in.
Getting There
Saturday in Ridgefield is shaping up nicely — sunny skies, a high near 81°F, and a light north wind of 5 to 10 mph. It’s a comfortable afternoon for the drive out, and the walk from the parking lot to the entrance should be a breeze. That said, ilani events draw real crowds, and festival-style setups mean more foot traffic than a typical casino night. Give yourself 15–20 extra minutes if you’re driving in and plan to self-park.
If you’re planning to sample generously, rideshare is worth considering. Lyft and Uber pick up conveniently near the main entrance.
What to Bring
Pack light — this is a tasting event, not a camping trip. A few essentials:
- Valid ID. Non-negotiable at a bourbon festival. Expect checks at pour stations throughout the event.
- Comfortable shoes. You’ll be on your feet browsing vendors, moving between stations, and lingering over brisket. Leave the dress shoes for another night.
- A small bag. A crossbody or fanny pack keeps your hands free while you carry plates and glasses.
- A light layer. Large ballrooms with full AC can run cooler than expected once the evening gets going. A denim jacket or light zip-up in your bag or car is worth having.
Practical Tips
- Aim to arrive by 3:30 PM PT. Getting in before the 4:00 PM rush means shorter entry lines and first crack at the pour stations before queues build.
- No outside food or drink is standard at ticketed tasting events — come with an appetite.
- Tickets may be limited. Secure yours through the official ilani ticketing channel before the event sells out.
The Cowlitz Ballroom handles the atmosphere. Saturday’s 81°F sunshine just handles the commute. See you at Bourbon & Bites.