Hoochenanny Festival

Start: Friday, August 14, 2026 4:00PM
End: Sunday, August 16, 2026 10:00PM

Got it. Here is a revised **long description (under 5000 characters)** that avoids repeating that sentence while still reinforcing the festival identity. --- Hoochenanny Festival is a three day celebration of music, spirits and culture that brings together distillers, musicians and fans from across the country for a one of a kind summer experience in Western New York. Founded to honor New York’s deep distilling roots and the broader spirit of American craftsmanship, the festival has quickly become a destination for people who appreciate great music, exceptional whiskey and the stories behind the makers who create them. What began as a small gathering in 2023 has grown rapidly, drawing thousands of attendees from more than 30 U.S. states and Canada. The 2026 festival, now in its third year, will take place August 14 through August 16 at Center Park West in the Town of Perinton, located at 1100 Ayrault Road in Fairport, New York. The move to Perinton reflects the continued growth of the event and provides a larger setting that allows organizers to expand programming, enhance guest experiences and strengthen connections with the Fairport and Perinton business community. Across the three day weekend, guests can explore whiskey tastings, craft cocktails and curated programming presented within custom built festival tent structures designed to create immersive environments throughout the grounds. These spaces host specialty tastings, unique bars and relaxed gathering areas where guests can meet distillers, connect with fellow enthusiasts and discover new spirits. Music is central to the Hoochenanny experience. The festival showcases international, national and regional artists performing across genres including Americana, rock, alternative, punk, outlaw country and rockabilly. Performances throughout the weekend create a high energy atmosphere that celebrates the rebellious spirit and storytelling tradition shared by both American music and whiskey culture. The whiskey programming highlights standout spirits from national and regional distilleries, giving guests the opportunity to sample a wide range of expressions and learn about the craft behind them. Distillers and brand ambassadors are on site throughout the weekend, offering insights into their process, heritage and the evolving world of American whiskey. In addition to spirits and music, Hoochenanny features artisan vendors, specialty food offerings and creative experiences that celebrate independent makers and small businesses. The festival grounds become a gathering place for people who appreciate authenticity, creativity and the craftsmanship behind the products they enjoy. Hoochenanny Festival is owned and produced by Tommy Brunett, founder of Iron Smoke Distillery in the Village of Fairport, and Sean McCarthy of McCarthy Events. Together they created the festival as a platform to celebrate music, craftsmanship and community while showcasing the cultural energy of the region. As the festival enters its third year, Hoochenanny continues to grow while remaining rooted in its founding spirit: bringing people together for a weekend filled with great music, great whiskey and unforgettable shared experiences.