Brick City Beer & Wine Festival 2026
The 12th Annual Brick City Beer and Wine Festival brings together 30+ craft breweries and wineries, live entertainment, and community spirit. April 4, 2026 at Citizens Circle in downtown Ocala.
The Brick City Beer and Wine Festival is Ocala's premier annual celebration of craft beverages and community, featuring 30+ craft beer and wine vendors, live entertainment including the Battle of the Bands, food trucks, and family activities—all benefiting local nonprofits. Held April 4, 2026, at Citizens Circle, with tickets from $35.
What Is the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
The Brick City Beer and Wine Festival is Ocala's flagship annual celebration of craft beer and wine culture. Now in its 12th year, the festival brings together the community to enjoy local and regional craft beverages, live entertainment, and community spirit—all while supporting three critical Marion County nonprofits: Interfaith Emergency Services, Kimberly's Center for Child Protection, and the Marion County Literacy Council.
Founded in 2014 by the Rotary Clubs of Ocala, the festival has grown into a major community event, raising over $700,000 for local charities. The 2025 event alone raised $160,000, demonstrating the deep commitment of Ocala residents to supporting local nonprofits through community celebration.
The festival takes its name from Ocala's historic Brick District in downtown, celebrating the revitalization of this vibrant neighborhood. Citizens Circle, located at the heart of downtown Ocala, serves as the perfect venue for this community-wide celebration of craft beer, wine, and local culture.
What Can You Do at the Brick City Beer Fest?
Sample 30+ Craft Beer & Wine Vendors
Taste craft beers from local Florida breweries and regional craft wineries. Industry experts discuss brewing techniques, flavor profiles, and production methods while you sample a variety of styles.
Enjoy Food Trucks & Craft Vendors
Food trucks provide complementary bites and full meals. Craft vendors offer unique handmade goods and merchandise.
Celebrate the Battle of the Bands
Presented by Wind-FM, up to 3 bands compete for a $600 prize and a professionally mixed song produced by Recording Ranch. A national recording artist also headlines the event with live performances.
Participate in the 50/50 Raffle
Test your luck with raffle tickets that benefit the festival's charitable mission.
Kids' Soda Saloon
Children 12 and under enjoy free entry and can participate in the Kids' Soda Saloon, where they sample craft sodas while exploring craft vendors and enjoying live entertainment.
How Much Are Brick City Beer Fest Tickets?
General Admission Sampling Pass
$35- • Entry from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
- • 30+ craft beer & wine vendor tastings
- • Access to food trucks and craft vendors
- • Battle of the Bands entertainment
- • Kids' Soda Saloon access
VIP Pass
$50- • Early entry at 1:00 PM
- • VIP tent access with complimentary snacks
- • 30+ vendor tastings with shorter lines
- • Premium seating area
- • All general admission benefits
Children 12 & Under
FREE- • Free entry all day
- • Kids' Soda Saloon participation
- • Craft vendor access
- • Battle of the Bands viewing
Note: Adults must present valid ID for beer and wine sampling. Pre-sale tickets are strongly recommended as VIP and sampling passes tend to sell out.
Where Is the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival Located?
Citizens Circle, Downtown Ocala
151 SE Osceola Ave, Ocala, FL 34471
Citizens Circle is located in the heart of downtown Ocala's historic Brick District. This vibrant public space is the perfect venue for the community-wide celebration, surrounded by shops, restaurants, galleries, and the cultural heart of Ocala.
Parking Information
Parking Garage One is located directly across the street from Citizens Circle and provides convenient covered parking just steps from the festival. Additional street parking and lot parking are available throughout downtown Ocala. Arrive early during peak hours (2:00 PM–4:00 PM) to secure convenient parking.
Downtown Context
The festival location puts attendees in the center of downtown Ocala's cultural and commercial district. Before or after the festival, explore the surrounding shops, dining establishments, galleries, and attractions that make downtown Ocala a vibrant destination.
Which Charities Benefit from the Brick City Beer Fest?
Interfaith Emergency Services
Provides emergency assistance to Marion County residents in crisis, including food, temporary housing, and utility assistance.
Kimberly's Center for Child Protection
Serves as Marion County's child advocacy center, providing trauma-informed support and advocacy for abused and neglected children.
Marion County Literacy Council
Promotes literacy and educational advancement throughout Marion County through tutoring, programs, and community outreach.
Festival Impact:
- ✓ 2025 Event: $160,000 raised
- ✓ Since 2014: $700,000+ raised for Marion County nonprofits
- ✓ Community-driven fundraiser supporting real local impact
What Entertainment Is at the Brick City Beer Fest?
Battle of the Bands (Presented by Wind-FM)
Up to 3 local bands compete on the main stage throughout the festival. The winning band receives a $600 prize and the opportunity to have their performance professionally mixed and mastered by Recording Ranch. This unique prize elevates local talent and supports the music community.
National Recording Artist Headline Act
A nationally recognized recording artist performs as the festival's headline entertainment, drawing music fans and creating a memorable concert experience for all attendees.
Live Entertainment Throughout the Day
Between main performances, the festival features continuous live music and entertainment from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, creating an energetic community atmosphere.
Quick Facts
DATE
April 4, 2026
(First Saturday in April)
TIME
2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
VIP entry at 1:00 PM
LOCATION
Citizens Circle
151 SE Osceola Ave
TICKETS
$35 (GA) / $50 (VIP)
Kids 12 & under: FREE
AGE POLICY
All ages welcome
21+ for beer/wine
PARKING
Garage One across street
Street parking available
BENEFITS
3 Local Nonprofits
$700K+ raised since 2014
Before You Go
Festival Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival 2026?
The 12th Annual Brick City Beer and Wine Festival is held on April 4, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM. VIP ticket holders receive early entry at 1:00 PM. The festival is held annually on the first Saturday in April at Citizens Circle in downtown Ocala.
How much are tickets to the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
Pre-sale sampling passes are $35 for general admission (2:00 PM–6:00 PM). VIP passes are $50 and include early entry at 1:00 PM plus access to the VIP tent with complimentary snacks. Children 12 and under receive free entry. Tickets can be purchased in advance at brickcitybeerandwinefest.com.
Where is the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival held?
Citizens Circle, located at 151 SE Osceola Ave in the heart of downtown Ocala, FL 34471. The venue is easily accessible via downtown streets. Parking Garage One is located directly across the street from Citizens Circle, with additional street parking available throughout downtown.
Is the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival family friendly?
Yes! Children 12 and under receive free entry and can enjoy the Kids' Soda Saloon, craft vendors, and the Battle of the Bands. Adults must be 21+ with valid ID for beer and wine sampling. The festival provides activities for all ages, making it a true community celebration.
What charities benefit from the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
Proceeds benefit three Marion County nonprofits: Interfaith Emergency Services, Kimberly's Center for Child Protection, and the Marion County Literacy Council. The 2025 event raised $160,000, and since its founding in 2014, the festival has raised over $700,000 for local charities.
Where do I park for the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
The nearest parking is Parking Garage One, located directly across the street from Citizens Circle in downtown Ocala. Additional street parking and lot parking are available throughout the downtown area. Arrive early during peak hours to secure convenient parking.
Who organizes the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
The festival is organized by the Rotary Clubs of Ocala as an annual charity fundraiser. The event represents a major community effort to support local nonprofits while celebrating craft beverage culture.
How many vendors are at the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
Over 30 craft beer and wine vendors participate in the festival, offering tastings and samples. The event also features food trucks, craft vendors, and a 50/50 raffle.
What entertainment is at the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
The festival features the Battle of the Bands presented by Wind-FM, where up to 3 bands compete for a $600 prize and a professionally mixed song produced by Recording Ranch. A national recording artist also performs as the headline act. Food trucks and craft vendors provide additional entertainment and shopping opportunities.
Can I buy tickets at the door for the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
Pre-sale tickets are available at brickcitybeerandwinefest.com. Door pricing may be higher than pre-sale rates. VIP and sampling passes tend to sell out, so advance purchase is strongly recommended.
What is the Kids' Soda Saloon at the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival?
The Kids' Soda Saloon is a special area where children 12 and under can enjoy soda tastings while adults sample craft beer and wine. Kids receive free entry and can explore the festival's vendor areas and enjoy the Battle of the Bands.
How much money has the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival raised?
Since its founding in 2014, the Brick City Beer and Wine Festival has raised over $700,000 for Marion County nonprofits. The 2025 (11th annual) event alone raised $160,000, demonstrating the community's strong support for local charitable causes.
What Other Festivals Are in Ocala?
Love the Brick City Beer Fest? Check out these other popular Ocala festivals and events happening throughout the year.
MARCH 28
THE BIG CHEESE
Mac & grilled cheese competition at Midtown Station with tastings, live music, and fun
FIRST FRIDAYS
First Friday Art Walk
Free monthly event in downtown Ocala with galleries, live music, and entertainment
MARCH 28
Ocala Spring Craft Show
Artisans and crafters at World Equestrian Center with handmade goods and gourmet food
APRIL 11
Boomtown Days Festival
Live music, food vendors, craft vendors, and classic car show in downtown Dunnellon
APRIL 25
Earthfest at Tuscawilla Park
Conservation celebration with food trucks, live music, and eco-friendly vendors
DOWNTOWN
MCA Block PARTy
Art exhibition fundraiser at Brick City Center with live entertainment and food
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Get Your Tickets Today
Join thousands of Ocala residents and visitors for the 12th Annual Brick City Beer and Wine Festival. Celebrate craft beverages, live entertainment, and community spirit while supporting local nonprofits.