You’ll never hear the words “three-day” the same way again after the original equinista, L.A. Sokolowski, takes you on a gustatory gallop through the Ocala Food & Wine Festival, presented by Lugano Diamonds, November 4-6, at the World Equestrian Center-Ocala.
Looking for lifestyle and culinary content with a distinctly equestrian twist for your 2023 editorial calendars?
The largest equestrian complex in the United States has opened its doors to provide feed and shelter for its Florida horse community ravaged by Hurricane Ian, and in little more than four weeks, will transform that emergency response into an elegant culinary celebration and fundraiser supporting Marion County youth seeking careers in the culinary and hospitality industries.
Drawing more than 800 attendees in its inaugural year, the festival will open with a Tasting Notes Welcome Party sponsored by Ethel M Chocolates® featuring sip and samples from more than 20 restaurants, wineries, distilleries and breweries, and live performances by CMA Vocal Duo of the Year nominees, LOCASH. A Tacos & Maestro Dobel Tequila® VIP after party will be led by renowned LA-based taquero chef, Esdras Ochoa.
Coverage of Saturday’s events in the WEC Grand Plaza will include an Iron Chef-style mystery basket competition between Ocala chefs, and a rare fusion of celebrity and local chefs, including Lorena Garcia, Art Smith, and Ocala’s “Master of the ‘Cue” and Food Network winner, Rashad Jones, of Big Lee’s BBQ, who will partner with WEC culinary director Ryker Brown to cook up an elevated take on barbecue.
Saturday evening, Ocala in-house executive chefs from local hotspots like La Cuisine, Morevino, and Mark’s Prime will partner with celebrity chefs to create an exclusive, multi-course dining experience expertly paired with spirits, wines and beers.
On Sunday, the coverage continues on the terrace at Stirrups Restaurant for a 10am jazz brunch featuring Veuve Clicquot® champagne.
“We’re extremely proud to be putting on this event because it’s helping us inspire and support the next generation of culinary and hospitality professionals. Bringing chefs of this caliber to the community allows the next generation to see themselves in careers that can take them all over the world. We’re proud to be supporting youth in a very real way and creating an enduring tradition for Ocala.”
Horse and hospitality niche industries are often closely intertwined. The Equine Alliance of Marion County has estimated that horses and tourism impact the state’s economy by more than $900 million a year.
Let L.A. Sokolowski, the original equinista, tie some great stories together for you.
Available for assignments now: latheequinista@gmail.com.
L.A. Sokolowski
(646) 920-9510
latheequinista@gmail.com