W hisky Wonderland isn’t just another tasting event. It’s a winter ritual, a cultural gathering and an immersive sensory experience that brings together whisky lovers from across the country — from seasoned connoisseurs to curious newcomers — under one roof (and often out on the snowy grounds) to celebrate the bygone traditions and modern evolutions of one of the world’s most storied spirits. A Winter Ritual With Deep Roots The idea for Whisky Wonderland sprang from something beautifully simple: a desire to bring people together over whisky. Founded by whisky enthusiast Mike Brisebois, the festival was built on the belief that whisky is more than just a drink — it is a catalyst for conversation, craftsmanship, and community. Over the course of one long February weekend — this year scheduled for February 19–21, 2026 — attendees converge on Ottawa’s TD Place in the scenic Lansdowne district. What unfolds over three days is far more than a tasting session; it’s an immersive celebration of whisky’s culture where curiosity is encouraged, and every pour tells a story. In a country known for its long winters, Whisky Wonderland has become a vibrant antidote to the cold. Here, winter isn’t something to endure — it’s something to toast. More Than Just a Glass: The Festival Experience At its heart, Whisky Wonderland is a sensory exploration — a place where flavour, art, education and connection converge. Visitors
can wander among more than 40 premium whisky vendors, sampling everything from classic single malts to rare blends, world whiskies, and limited-release bottlings that might otherwise be hard to find. But the festival experience extends well beyond tasting. Attendees can immerse themselves in masterclasses led by industry experts, where technique, history and craftsmanship are discussed with depth and passion. These sessions provide rare insider access to the world of whisky — perfect for both those just beginning their journey and seasoned drinkers looking to deepen their appreciation. For many, one of the highlights of the weekend is the Whisky Wonderland dinners. From the intimate Founder’s Dinner — an exclusive long-table affair with Brisebois and special guests — to curated whisky-paired culinary experiences, these meals turn each course into a conversation, weaving flavour and narrative together in perfect tandem. On the main festival day, Saturday, the atmosphere becomes a blend of serious tasting and joyful celebration. Live music sets the tone as visitors stroll through heated outdoor lounges, gather around fire pits, and explore interactive features like ice bars, ice sculpting displays, cigar lounges, and even whisky-infused roasted marshmallows.
The Social Spirit of Whisky Part of what makes Whisky Wonderland so magnetic is its emphasis on connection. Whisky, for all its complex flavours and storied heritage, is at its best when shared. The festival cultivates this sense of community in every corner — whether between attendees comparing tasting notes, a masterclass group debating the influence of peat, or friends huddled around a fire sipping a dram under a starlit winter sky. This social essence is intentional. Whisky Wonderland’s organizers have always envisioned the event as a community- building platform, not just a showcase of spirits. The festival brings together distillers, brand ambassadors, bartenders, writers, collectors, and novices — all with their own perspectives and stories — creating a space where expertise and curiosity mingle. For many attendees, the connections forged here become as memorable as the whiskies themselves. Enthusiasts return year after year, not merely for the premium pours or rare finds, but for the conversations that unfold, the friendships that form, and the sense of belonging that comes with being part of a passionate community.
Glen Oro Farm With over 200 acres of open fields, pristine riding trails and gorgeous rolling hills, Glen Oro is a breathtaking eco-retreat where you can reconnect with your primal roots. Whether you’re interested in some horse riding lessons, looking for unique luxury camping accommodations, planning a rustic wedding or a group of executives coming in to grow together and brainstorm new ideas, you can plan your next getaway with our curated packages. This is a place that tightens bonds and fills up the energy reserves, inspiring creativity as well as feeling like a safe place to just be—to exist, recharge, reset and refresh.
Your incredible experience starts here. Book with us today!
Photo courtesy Whisky Wonderland
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28 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 26 ISSUE 1
INDUSTRY • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 29
Photo courtesy Whisky Wonderland
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