With all the focus on craft beer lately, it’s time to shift the focus back to an old favorite: whiskey.

The world’s best distillers will be the focus of WhiskeyFest NorthWest, planned for May 9-10 in Portland’s Pearl District.

The event will feature samplings of more than 120 whiskeys and scotches, live entertainment, educational seminars, vendors, cocktail competitions, a mechanical bull, a VIP speakeasy and a Prohibition cigar lounge.

According to the festival’s website, whiskey is believed to have been first distilled in Ireland. The alternate spelling of whisky is generally reserved for spirits distilled in Scotland, Wales, Canada and Japan. Today, there are about 2,500 brands of whiskey worldwide.

Live entertainment will be presented on two stages. Performers include Robert Randolph & The Family Band, The Stone Foxes, Poor Old Shine and The Slide Brothers.

The festival runs 4-9 p.m. May 9 and noon-9 p.m. May 10 at Northwest 11th Avenue and Northwest Overton Street in Portland. It’s open to people ages 21 and older.

Leading up to the festival, a variety of restaurants and bars will present whiskey-tasting dinners and drink specials beginning May 3 as part of Portland Whiskey Week. Check www.whiskeyfestnw.com for a full list of participants.

Tickets are $25 per day of $40 for a two-day pass. Proceeds benefit the Oregon Active Foundation.

For more information, visit www.whiskeyfestnw.com or email info@whiskeyfestnw.com.

— Reporter: 541-383-0350, jwasson@bendbulletin.com