BARDSTOWN, Ky. (MTN) — This year, bourbon fans will be celebrating with virtual toasts during the Kentucky Bourbon Festival due to COVID-19 restrictions.

According to the festival’s board, this shift to a virtual experience was in direct response of the coronavirus to help protect the safety of distilleries, the Bardstown community and the health of bourbon fans.

“At this time, we know it’s the right decision to move to a new type of bourbon celebration by going virtual,” said festival Board of Directors Chairman David Mandell. “We look forward to welcoming everyone back to Bardstown for our 30th Anniversary next year.”

Bourbon fans will be able to go online between Oct. 15-18 to view around 20 live and recorded “Spirits Education Sessions,” festival organizers say, but free registration is required to attend.

All virtual sessions are to include a series featuring master distillers teaching the particulars of bourbon making.