Bourbon & Bluegrass returns with music & more at Lincoln's Cottage

Bourbon & Bluegrass is coming back for in-person enjoyment on May 21st and May 22nd at Lincoln’s Cottage, from 1pm to 5pm both days.

The popular Bourbon & Bluegrass event is the largest fundraiser for the Lincoln's Cottage museum, and a destination for the neighborhood to enjoy live music, games on the Cottage’s lawn and, of course, some great bourbon.

The music headliner for both days will be Driftwood, an upstate New York band known by their large and loyal following as a guarantee of a killer live show. A fixture in the Americana music scene, they have their roots in bluegrass.

“We are especially excited to have Driftwood headline because they will appeal to both the hard core bluegrass fans, and people who are more into folk rock music. Their music speaks to everyone, and they are a perfect band to headline this celebration of community,” said Cottage Director Michael Mason.

The great lawn in front of President Lincoln’s Cottage (photo courtesy of PLC)

The Cottage is also thrilled to welcome another out-of-town sensation, Tray Wellington, who will be playing the event on Sunday, May 22nd. Tray has received numerous awards for his versatile music style including two awards from IBMA including Momentum Instrumentalist of the Year and Momentum Band of the Year with the release of Cane Mill Road. “We are big Tray Wellington fans here at the Cottage, and we are excited for him to come for his first Bourbon & Bluegrass event. We hope it’s the first of many,” said Mason.

Trey Wellington

There will also be several local bands of note. The DC/Washington combo Doug Stevenson & the Spades will play Saturday, and returning favorites Moose Jaw and Hollertown will play both Saturday and Sunday.

Each General Admission (drinking) ticket includes:

  • An afternoon of live bluegrass music from local musicians

  • Two drink tickets for bourbon cocktails (21+ only, ID required; additional drink tickets available for purchase during event)

  • Bourbon tasting

  • Beer tasting from local breweries

  • Exterior preservation tours of Lincoln's Cottage

  • Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, more food options available for purchase

  • Activities such as: beard grooming station brought to you by The Barbers of Hell's Bottom, lawn games by DCFray, and more!

  • Tickets are lower-priced for non-drinking and free for kids 0-6.

These excellent bands will provide the soundtrack to a lively program that incorporates food, history, fashion and bourbon. Beam Suntory is providing bourbon for the event, along with specialty cocktails. Culinary highlights will include Rocklands Barbeque, Timber Pizza, and Goodies desserts.

Lawn games will be played, beer will be offered and The Barbers of Hell’s Bottom will be trimming any unruly beards in attendance in a nod to Honest Abe’s signature look.

All proceeds from the event will support the continuing preservation of President Lincoln’s beloved summer home, the birthplace of the Emancipation Proclamation. Any history buffs in attendance will have the opportunity to learn about the Cottage from Senior Preservationist Jeff Larry.

“President Lincoln’s Cottage is the only National Monument not to receive federal operating support. Bourbon and Bluegrass is our biggest fundraiser and the funds go towards keeping this home beautiful, safe, and accessible to everyone,” said Mason.

Come out for a great weekend, support a local historic resource, and enjoy food, games and drink! All ages welcome, 21+ to drink.

Tickets tend to sell out, so get yours early. See you there!

President Lincoln’s Cottage
140 Rock Creek Church Road NW
Washington, DC 20011