The Food Network’s Duff Goldman to Headline 2025 Ocala Food & Wine Festival at World Equestrian Center  

Ocala, FL – The fifth annual Ocala Food & Wine Festival returns to World Equestrian Center – Ocala (WEC) from November 7 to 9, 2025, with an exciting announcement: The Food Network star Duff Goldman will headline this year’s festivities with live appearances Friday, November 7 at the Chefs’ Dinner and Saturday, November 8 at the Grand Tasting. Festival attendees will now have the opportunity to experience his creativity and artistry at Ocala’s premier culinary event. 

Known for his imaginative approach to food and charismatic personality, Chef Duff is the star of many shows from The Food Network, including “Ace of Cakes,” which showcased his innovative cake shop, Charm City Cakes. He is also the lead judge on “Holiday Baking Championship” and “Spring Baking Championship,” and he guides the next generation of bakers on “Kids Baking Championship.” He also stars in a new series, “Super Mega Cakes,” which premiered in June 2025. Chef Duff’s cookbook Super Good Baking for Kids debuted on The New York Times Best Sellers list, inspiring young bakers with creative recipes. His signature cakes are available through Goldbelly, his custom baking kits on Baketivity, and this winter, travelers can visit Duff’s Deli & Market at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. 

Five-Star Package attendees can see Chef Duff live in action as he prepares an exquisite meal for Friday’s Chefs’ Dinner, the most anticipated event of the weekend. On Saturday, attendees can catch Chef Duff on the main stage during the Grand Tasting, featuring unlimited samples of curated cuisine and premium beverages, plus a first taste of four new restaurants coming soon to The Equestrian Manor.  

Five-Star Package holders will also enjoy a taste of equestrian action, cocktails and small plates during the Grand Prix Reception Experience Saturday evening, held ringside at the property’s Grand Arena. The weekend concludes on a sparkling note with a Champagne Brunch on the Stirrups Terrace on Sunday.  

The Five-Star Festival Packages are designed to turn the festival into a weekend full of unforgettable flavors and experiences, offering exclusive access to all festival events. Five-Star Package guests also enjoy access to luxury accommodations, breakfast at Stirrups, spa discounts, complimentary golf cart rental and early check-in and late check-out.

The Ocala Food & Wine Festival is a 21+ event, with proceeds benefiting the Public Education Foundation of Marion County ProStart Program. Marketing in partnership with the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association. For more information and to purchase tickets or packages, visit ocalafoodandwinefest.com. 

About World Equestrian Center  
Named one of TIME’s 2024 World’s Greatest Places, World Equestrian Center features two premier equestrian and multidisciplinary venues in Ocala, Florida, and Wilmington, Ohio.  
 
These exclusive facilities comprise state-of-the-art arenas, expansive stadiums, versatile outdoor space, sporting fields and well-appointed exposition centers. An abundance of lodging options and luxury accommodations are conveniently located on-site, along with shopping and dining throughout each property.  
 
Dedicated to offering great sport and good fun in a family-friendly environment, World Equestrian Center promises an unparalleled experience for exhibitors, spectators, vendors, sponsors and retailers built on three core values: Quality. Class. Distinction.  
 
Learn more at wec.net.  

Media Contact: 
Leah Tong 
[email protected]