Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Week Returns for Sixth Year

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Celebration returns October 10–19 with nationwide events and charitable giving

Elijah Craig Bourbon has announced the return of Old Fashioned Week, running from October 10 through October 19, 2025. Now in its sixth year, the brand-created celebration honors the timeless Old Fashioned cocktail while supporting hospitality professionals across the country.

“Old Fashioned Week is an Elijah Craig original, created to both honor the iconic cocktail and give back to the community that allows bourbon culture to thrive,” said Max Stefka, Associate Vice President of Elijah Craig Bourbon. “When you order an Elijah Craig Old Fashioned, you’re not just raising a glass – you’re raising hope and helping to support bartenders, chefs and service staff nationwide.”

Cocktails for a Cause

Elijah Craig donates $1 for every Old Fashioned sold during the week—up to $100,000—to bar and restaurant workers in need. Last year’s event helped the Southern Smoke Foundation provide 760 free mental health counseling sessions through its Behind You program, along with $40,000 in emergency relief grants to hospitality workers nationwide.

Since launching in 2020, Old Fashioned Week has raised nearly $500,000 for organizations such as the Southern Smoke Foundation, which provides mental health and financial aid to those in the food and beverage industry. This year’s celebration expands internationally, with events in Canada supporting the Bartenders Benevolent Fund and in the United Kingdom benefitting The Drinks Trust.

Find a Bar and Join the Celebration

Bourbon fans can locate participating venues using the “Find a Bar” tool at oldfashionedweek.com. Each listed location will exclusively serve Elijah Craig Old Fashioneds and creative variations on the cocktail throughout the week.

Bartenders Compete in the “New Era” Old Fashioned Contest

Elijah Craig and VinePair are hosting the “New Era of the Old Fashioned Cocktail Contest,” inviting bartenders nationwide to showcase their creativity. Contestants will vie for a $15,000 grand prize and a feature in Old Fashioned Week Cocktail Companion: Volume 3. Entries will be evaluated on balance, creativity, and presentation, with submissions open through November 1, 2025.

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