There’s something special about bringing together passionate distillers, curious drinkers, and a venue full of history and that’s exactly what the Australian Distillers Festival 2026 promises to deliver.

This year, Bright Night Gin is thrilled to return to one of Melbourne’s most exciting spirits events, held at the beautiful Abbotsford Convent. After having such a fantastic time last year, we’re incredibly excited to be back for another day celebrating the craft, creativity, and flavour of Australian spirits. Even better, you’ll find us in the courtyard area, pouring tastings, mixing cocktails, and sharing stories behind our Tasmanian Gins.

If you love great spirits, great people, and a great atmosphere, this is one event you won’t want to miss.

A Celebration of Australian Distilling

The Australian Distillers Festival has quickly become one of the most exciting events on the Australian spirits calendar. With over 30 premium distilleries from across the country, it’s a unique opportunity to explore the incredible diversity of Australian craft spirits in one place.

From gin and vodka to whisky, agave spirits, and liqueurs, the festival showcases the innovation and creativity that has made Australia one of the world’s most exciting spirits?producing regions.

But what makes this event truly special is the chance to meet the makers. Every distillery has a story, from the inspiration behind their spirits to the botanicals they use and the challenges of crafting something unique.

For us, these conversations are one of our favourite parts of the festival.

The Beautiful Abbotsford Convent

One of the reasons we love this festival so much is the venue itself. The Abbotsford Convent is one of Melbourne’s most iconic cultural precincts, filled with history, creativity, and community spirit.

The heritage buildings, beautiful gardens, and relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect backdrop for a festival dedicated to craft and creativity. It’s the kind of place where you can wander between distillers, sip something new, enjoy live music, and soak up the atmosphere all afternoon.

Being set up in the courtyard this year makes it even more exciting — a lively and welcoming space that captures the energy of the festival perfectly.

What You’ll Taste at the Bright Night Gin Stand

We’re bringing a special lineup of gins and cocktails to the festival this year – including “Best Australian Gin“, Award winning gins and exciting new releases. We are also brining our Pink Gin and possibly a Mothers day gift pack!

Wild Tasmanian Gin – Best Contemporary Gin in Australia

Our flagship Wild Tasmanian Gin recently took home an incredible honour:
Best Contemporary Gin in Australia at the Sydney Spirits Awards. We can now finally say that our Gin is the Best Gin in Australia 🙂

We’ll be pouring fresh G&Ts and cocktails featuring this award?winning spirit so you can taste exactly what makes it special.

Red Goat – Our Best Barrel Aged Gin

Another standout is Red Goat, our Chardonnay Barrel Aged Gin. Aged in French oak barrels that previously held Tasmanian Chardonnay, it delivers layers of vanilla, spice, caramel, and oak — a gin that bridges the worlds of whisky and traditional gin. Recently recognised as Best Matured Gin in Victoria, it’s perfect for sipping or classic cocktails.

Launching Our Newest Negroni

We’re also introducing something brand new — the Bright Night Negroni. This festival will be the first place to taste it. If you love classic cocktails, you’ll want to try this one.

More Than Just Gin

Every ticket includes:

• ? All tastings from the distilleries
• ? Engraved festival tasting glass
• ? Australian Distillers Festival tote bag
• ? Live music throughout the day
• ? Delicious food options available for purchase

It’s a full sensory experience where you can explore new flavours, discover new distilleries, and enjoy a vibrant festival atmosphere.

Meet Suman at the stand

At the Bright Night Gin stand, you’ll be greeted by Suman, co?founder of Bright Night Gin.

Suman loves sharing the stories behind our gins — from the inspiration of the Aurora Australis to the botanicals that give our spirits their distinctive Tasmanian character.

If you’re curious about gin?making, cocktails, or just want to chat spirits, Suman will be there all day.

Bright Night Merch at the Festival

We’re also bringing our heavy cotton Bright Night Gin T?shirts — a favourite among fans. Comfortable, durable, and perfect for showing your love of craft gin.

Session Times

The festival runs across multiple sessions:

Session One:
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM

Session Two:
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM

VIP All?Day Access:
12:00 PM – 7:00 PM

The VIP session is perfect for anyone who wants to dive deep into Australia’s spirits scene.

Come Say Hello, pwetty please 🙂

If you’re heading to the Australian Distillers Festival 2026, make sure to stop by the Bright Night Gin stand in the courtyard. Come try our award?winning gins, taste our new Negroni, meet Suman, and experience the spirit of Tasmania in your glass. We can’t wait to share a drink with you.