5th Annual Bourbon Ball

The Rotary Club of Ybor City is bringing back the Bourbon Ball for its fifth year on Friday, October 23, at the Tampa Federation Garden Clubs. It's a charity gala that does exactly what the name suggests: it pairs premium bourbon tastings with hand-rolled cigars, door prizes, and dinner. The ticket sales go toward supporting local charities, so it's one of those nights where the drinks and the food are tied to something bigger than the party itself.

The evening is for over-21s, and the dress code is cocktail attire, so you'll want to dress up for it. The main event runs from 7 PM to 10 PM, but there's a VIP Cocktail Hour from 6 PM to 7 PM if you want to get there early and start the night with a drink in hand before the rest of the room fills in. Between the bourbon, the cigars, and the dinner, it's a full evening rather than just a quick stop.

As for the where, the Tampa Federation Garden Clubs is at 2629 Bayshore Boulevard, and parking is free. It's a well-known spot on the Bayshore, so it should be easy enough to find. If you're planning to go, just keep in mind the 21+ requirement and the cocktail dress code. The main event is 7 PM to 10 PM, with that VIP hour starting at 6 PM.