Whiskey in the Cloud benefits the Education Foundation

Building on the success of last year’s successful Whiskey in the Cloud, the 2024 Levee Liquors spirits festival packed downtown New York Avenue Saturday night. Levee Liquor owners Mark and Dana Wells made the first toast to open the Fest.

Fortunately, the weather held and a good crowd attended the expanded event, all to benefit the Education Foundation of Osceola County. Over 60 distillers representing over 100 brands provided samples and information about their craft spirits.

Along with the liquor, several food trucks operated, all the downtown eateries were welcoming and the St. Cloud Chamber of Commerce was on hand to sell soft drinks and snacks to assure a family friendly atmosphere.

Local favorite the Kenyon Laughrey Trio kicked off the night’s musical acts. Tommy Townsend, also the owner of Georgia spirits producer Granddaddy Mimms Distillery Co. and whose current album features his long-time mentor, country music legend Waylon Jennings, performed his own songs plus some Jennings’ and Willie Nelson classics. Dramatically Distilled performed an opening toast and a skit later between band sets. Swish, the mascot for the Osceola Magic basketball team, one of the event’s sponsors, also made an appearance.

Story and photos by Terry Lloyd