SIP. SAVOR. LEARN. RELAX.
Step inside The Snug for exclusive, expert-led tasting sessions celebrating the best of Irish whiskeys and craft brews. Rub elbows with beverage pros, explore unique flavor profiles, and enjoy an entertaining dive into Ireland’s rich drinking history and culture.
Workshops are strictly 21+ (underage reservation purchases will be denied and payments forfeited) and require a workshop ticket in addition to festival admission. With only 35 seats per session, space is strictly limited—so claim your spot at the table below before it's gone! Online pre-registration closes August 4 - any remaining spots will be available in-person at The Snug at the Fest.
WORKSHOPS
The History of Guinness
Saturday, 1pm -OR- Sunday, 1pm @ The Snug | $15/person
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Lead by Mike Reardon, Official Guinness Brewery Ambassador, participants will learn Guinness history, fun trivia, and expert food pairings in this exclusive, interactive tasting workshop! For instance, did you know Guinness bubbles sink instead of rise, and the beer is actually ruby red, not black? Participants will sample the full Guinness portfolio, including Guinness, Extra Stout, Foreign Extra Stout, Harp Lager, Smithwick’s Ale, and Guinness Zero. __________ About Mike Reardon: Mike is the official Brewery Ambassador for Guinness, specializing in brand heritage, beer history, and interactive tasting experiences.
The History of Irish Beers
Saturday, 5pm @ The Snug | $15/person
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Led by Pat Carey, Co-Founder of Padraig’s Brewing, participants will enjoy an interactive workshop exploring Ireland's rich brewing legacy. Discover (and taste) how ancient grains and traditional brewing techniques evolved into the beloved ales, stouts, and lagers poured in taprooms today. __________ About Pat Carey: Pat is a co-founder of Padraig’s Brewing in Northeast Minneapolis, dedicated to honoring classic Irish brewing traditions and crafting authentic Celtic beer styles locally.
Keeper’s Heart: Whiskey, Prohibition, & the Speakeasy
Sunday, 2pm @ The Snug | $45/person
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Join O'Shaugnessy Distilling Co. Cofounder, Shannon Masera and step back into the roaring 1920s on a spirited journey through Prohibition, the rise of speakeasies, and the resilience of Irish whiskey. Enjoy classic whiskey cocktails while uncovering the fascinating stories, colorful characters, and lasting impact of one of America's most iconic eras. __________ About Shannon Masera: Shannon is the Director of Partnerships & Engagement, and a founding family member at O'Shaughnessy Distilling Co., Shannon has helped build the distillery into one of Minnesota's premier whiskey destinations through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and a passion for sharing Irish whiskey traditions. A 2026 Distinguished Irish Woman, Shannon brings history to life with engaging storytelling, making whiskey approachable, memorable, and fun for guests of all experience levels.
Keeper’s Heart American Pot Still Whiskey: A New Chapter in Whiskey
Saturday, 3pm -OR- Sunday, 3pm @ The Snug | $50/person
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Guided by O'Shaughnessy Distilling Co.'s Lead Distiller, Kate Douglas, you will experience the world's first American Pot Still Whiskey! Learn how centuries-old Irish distilling traditions inspired an entirely new style of American whiskey while comparing different distillation methods and discovering how they influence aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel. __________ About Kate Douglas: Kate is the Lead Distiller of QSE & Innovations at O'Shaughnessy Distilling Co., bringing a passion for food science, fermentation, and whiskey innovation. Holding degrees in Food Safety and Fermentation Science & Technology from Colorado State University, Kate previously served as Head Distiller at Old Elk Distillery, where she helped create award-winning whiskeys alongside Master Distiller Greg Metze. Today, she leads production at O'Shaughnessy, combining Irish tradition with American craftsmanship to create exceptional whiskey.