When Mike and Katherine Williams received their son Hudson's diagnosis of Duchenne muscular dystrophy in 2022, they faced a choice that would define their family's future. Rather than letting fear overwhelm them, they channeled their energy into something extraordinary: turning their community connections into a lifeline for rare disease research.

The result is Southeast Texas WhiskeyFest, an annual celebration that has become so much more than a gathering of whiskey enthusiasts. This Saturday marks the fourth year of the event at the Beaumont Civic Center, and the numbers tell an incredible story. In just four years, this community-driven initiative has raised more than $1 million for Cure Rare Disease, a nonprofit dedicated to funding research that might otherwise struggle to get attention.

"We realized that we had a unique opportunity to help," Katherine explains warmly. "WhiskeyFest became a way to bring people together, leverage those relationships and turn community support into something that could fund real research and real hope. What started as an idea became a mission we truly believe in."

Mike's background as owner of Longhorn Liquor provided the perfect foundation. His 15 years of building relationships in the industry meant he had connections to vendors, distributors and fellow whiskey lovers who were eager to support a meaningful cause. After traveling to Chicago to experience one of the nation's premier whiskey events, Mike returned home brimming with ideas to create something special in Southeast Texas.

The event has grown into a full-scale celebration that welcomes everyone, not just whiskey aficionados. This year's gathering will feature more than 300 vendors traveling to Beaumont, premium spirit tastings, custom boots and hats, nonalcoholic options, and live music from New Orleans blues and folk artist Andrew Duhon. A diverse array of food vendors ensures no one goes hungry while mingling with neighbors and making new friends.

The Ripple Effect

What makes WhiskeyFest truly special is how it demonstrates the power of community action. Research for rare diseases is incredibly expensive, and families dealing with these diagnoses often feel isolated and overwhelmed. The Williams family travels regularly to Arkansas, Massachusetts and even Canada for treatments and research updates, but they've found strength in knowing their hometown supports them.

"Everything in our lives now revolves around advancing research that will ultimately lead to a cure for Duchenne muscular dystrophy," Katherine shares. While the emotional weight of event planning can feel overwhelming at times, she says it always comes together beautifully, sustained by the genuine care of their community.

The impact extends far beyond one family or even one town. "This event is bigger than Southeast Texas, and it's even bigger than our son," Katherine notes with hope in her voice. "The work being done can benefit anyone who shares the same genetic mutations, no matter where they live."

Saturday's event runs from 5 p.m. for VIP early entry, with general admission starting at 6 p.m. and festivities continuing until 9 p.m. Tickets are available at setxwhiskeyfest.com.

"Knowing that a night of music, fellowship and generosity in Southeast Texas can help advance lifesaving work is incredibly powerful," Katherine reflects. "It reminds us that communities, no matter their size, can make a meaningful impact."