Gov. DeSantis Greenlights Liquor Sales at Marion's Equestrian Center!

Ocala, Florida, USA - Governor Ron DeSantis has taken a step to enhance the visitor experience at the World Equestrian Center in Marion County. On June 9, 2025, he signed legislation (HB 4067) which provides the venue with a special beverage license to sell packaged wine and beverages for on-premises consumption under specific conditions. This move opens new doors for both the equestrian community and event-goers, promising to add another layer of enjoyment to an already vibrant venue.

The World Equestrian Center has made quite a name for itself. It features multiple fields and an indoor village square that benefits vendors during events. Notably, the venue hosts prestigious competitions like the Longines FEI Jumping World Cup and the Longines League of Nations. Last year, it was even named one of Time’s „World’s Greatest Places.“ Clearly, the center is a gem in our local landscape.

Legislative Journey

The passage of HB 4067 wasn’t without its hurdles. Initially filed by Rep. Ryan Chamberlin, a Republican from Belleview, the bill underwent several reviews by various committees before it reached the governor’s desk. After being referred to multiple subcommittees on March 5, 2025, it faced feedback and required amendments before ultimately receiving approval from both the House and the Senate. The final vote concluded with 92 Yeas to 16 Nays in the House and a unanimous 36-0 in the Senate on April 30, 2025, making it a see-saw of negotiations and adjustments aimed at bringing clarity and support to the facility’s operational needs. [Lobby Tools] details its progress effectively.

While some concerns were raised regarding the original bill language potentially allowing the venue to operate similarly to a liquor store, the final version includes narrow restrictions. The legislation now allows serving drinks on-site, specifically through a pop-up bar setup, designed to enhance the experience while maintaining responsible consumption. “[Florida Politics] reports that…” Scott Dick, a lobbyist for the Florida Independent Spirits Association, contributed to refining the bill’s language, ensuring that it met both the needs of the venue and the regulatory framework.

Local Impact

The importance of this bill cannot be overstated. Marion County is rapidly emerging as an epicenter for equestrian sports, boasting top-tier training facilities and a vibrant equestrian culture. Such development not only caters to horse enthusiasts but also improves local business opportunities, providing better options for visitors attending events. With an average liquor license costing between $250,000 to $300,000 in the county, the special beverage license directly addresses challenges encountered under existing Beverage Law restrictions, making the venue more accessible for gatherings and events.

For those wondering about the complexities of obtaining such permits, [My Florida License] outlines various licenses and permits for alcoholic beverages, emphasizing the structured process entailed. This understanding is crucial for ensuring compliance as the World Equestrian Center expands its offerings while maintaining a focus on community standards.

In conclusion, the signing of HB 4067 not only spotlights the World Equestrian Center’s role in the local economy but reinforces the state’s commitment to fostering its celebrated equestrian culture. This exciting legislative update beckons the potential for even greater experiences at one of Florida’s most beloved venues, and we look forward to seeing how this unfolds.