Where
There isn’t a lovelier area of Florida to host a culinary festival than Ocala, Florida. Events will be held in various locations throughout Ocala & Marion County. See the individual event descriptions as they are unveiled to learn the locations of the individual events.
Where to stay
Special rates have been negotiated for festival attendees with the Hilton Ocala, the festival’s Official Hotel Partner. Another good reason to stay at the Hilton is it’s new Market Kitchen + Bar, which we predict will be the hot spot for hanging out after the festival with great cocktails, live music and a chance to mingle with the visiting festival talent.
When
March 25 – 29, 2020
The timing of the 2020 festival coincides with one of the most beautiful times of the year in Ocala, Florida- spring! This time of year is nearly perfect with cool evenings and mild days. In addition to the festive culinary events scheduled for the festival, visitors may also decide to enjoy our great outdoors by playing golf, horseback riding our beautiful trails, kayaking our clear water springs, or picnicking at any of the equine competitions taking place during their visit.
Who
A group of dedicated industry professionals have joined forces to provide a platform for extraordinary talent to convene in Ocala/Marion County for the purpose of creating unforgettable culinary experiences and generating insightful dialogue about food, wine, and spirits.
ADVISORY BOARD
Jennifer Murty
Co-Founder | Ocala, FL
Co-Founder | Ocala, FL
Morgan Willett
Festival Director | Ocala, FL
Festival Director | Ocala, FL
FAQ’s
Where will the festival events take place?
Check individual event listings to identify the various locales where events will be held throughout Ocala/Marion County. In a few event instances, the locales will not be disclosed until tickets are purchased.
How do I attend the Ocala Culinary Festival?
All events require tickets, which can be purchased on this website as the event lineup is unveiled.
Can my diet restrictions be accommodated during festival events?
No. Unfortunately, the logistics of carrying off these events in various locales do not give chefs the room to be flexible with their menus. Chefs participating in the festival are given creative license to serve whatever inspires them—without the need to anticipate various diet restrictions.
What happens if an event is sold out?
Tickets are very limited, especially in regards to some of the smaller, more intimate festival experiences. We encourage you to consider other events in the lineup if your first choice gets sold out. If an event has been sold out and you’d like to have your name added to a wait list in case we have a cancellation, please feel free to email us this request at [email protected].
What should I wear?
Check each individual event listing for suggestions on attire.
Can I bring my children to the festival?
We love children! However, we cannot allow anyone under 21 to attend the festival.
What is the Grand Tasting?
The casual grand finale to the festival will be held in downtown Ocala, Florida. For one price, festivalgoers will be allowed in to meet one on one with chefs who have participated in the festival and eat and drink the best the festival has to offer.
Festival Rules
You must be 21 years of age or older to attend any of the festival events—no infants or toddlers.
No animals are allowed at any of the festival events.
Tickets are non-refundable.
Events go on rain or shine.
Tickets are non-transferrable without written permission of festival management. To make an inquiry for permission to transfer tickets, email [email protected]