The 4th Annual Los Angeles Rum Fest, also recognized as the California Rum Fest SoCal Edition, is set to uncork an elevated experience for rum aficionados, industry professionals, and consumers alike. Scheduled for September 11, 2025, the event will take place on the rooftop of The Haas Trademark Collection by Wyndham in Downtown Los Angeles, offering attendees panoramic city views alongside a curated selection of premium spirits.
This year’s festival promises an intimate and educational journey into the world of rum, featuring over 30 distinguished, award-winning premium rum brands that will showcase approximately 80 to 100 unique expressions. The event aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the rum category through engaging expositions, insightful talks, and informative seminars, aligning with the growing trend of premiumization and educational experiences in the spirits market. The United States, and particularly California, stands as a significant market for rum, with the state being a major contributor to national rum sales, reflecting a spirited resurgence of interest in this versatile spirit.
New to the lineup this year is “DaiquiríMania,” a program designed to celebrate the creative reinterpretation of the classic Daiquirí cocktail. Presented by REAL Ingredients, this initiative invites attendees to explore innovative twists on the beloved drink, set to nostalgic music, making it an appealing fusion for rum enthusiasts, cocktail lovers, and music aficionados.
Federico Hernández, founder and producer of TheRumLab and the Los Angeles Rum Fest, emphasized the event’s role as an educational platform. “Los Angeles Rum Fest is more than a tasting experience, it’s an educational platform where the trade, rum aficionados, tiki cravers, and newcomers come to enrich their knowledge about a spirit that has made history in the lands of the rum second marketplace in the USA,” he stated.
The festival offers various sessions catering to different audiences. The VIP Rum Expert sessions provide early admission and exclusive access, while industry trade sessions offer networking opportunities for professionals in the bar, restaurant, and distribution sectors. General admission sessions allow consumers to explore the vast world of rum, with ticket prices ranging from $35 to $95.
Last year’s LA Rum Fest 2024 saw significant engagement, with over 2,000 rum samples poured from major international brands, participation from 50 trade professionals, and attendance by VIPs and general consumers, underscoring the event’s success in connecting the industry and enthusiasts.
The broader rum market is experiencing notable trends, including a growing demand for premium, craft, and aged rums, alongside an increased interest in flavored and spiced varieties. Sustainability and ethical production practices are also increasingly influencing consumer choices and brand strategies.
The Haas Trademark Collection by Wyndham, the chosen venue, is a modern aparthotel located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, offering spacious suites, full kitchens, and convenient access to the city’s attractions, making it an ideal setting for this premier rum event.
The Los Angeles Rum Fest 2025 promises to be a significant event on the city’s bar and spirits calendar, offering a comprehensive exploration of rum’s heritage, craftsmanship, and evolving presence in the contemporary market.
