Description

Ocala’s macaroni-and-grilled-cheese showdown is back to fill your plate, warm your soul, and prove once and for all who’s the cheesiest in town! 

THE BIG CHEESE returns March 28th, and it’s about to get gloriously melty. 

Hosted by Ocala Business Leaders (OBL), Sponsored by Ferrentino & Son, LLC and benefiting The Arnette House, Champions for Champions, Isaiah 117 House, The Ora Clubhouse, and VOCAL — contestants will come together in Ocala’s own Midtown Station to have a showdown for the books, including live music and a whole lot of fun. Who will take home the title of Big Cheese? Judge’s Choice, determined by Ocala’s well-known community leaders, and People’s Choice will crown our next cheesy champion. 

| Location |

Date: March 28th, 2026 

Time: 11am-3pm 

Location: Midtown Station, 235 NE Watula Ave Ocala, FL 34470 

| Tickets |

- Adults: $20 wristband for Mac ‘N’ Cheese or Grilled Cheese samplings from each contestant 

- Kids: $5 wristband for Mac ‘N’ Cheese or Grilled Cheese samplings from each contestant 

- Contestants: $25 to enter the cook-off competition 

- Retail Vendors: $100 for booth space 

- Sponsorship Opportunities: Details available at thebigcheeseocala.com

Every ticket purchase supports local impact for our community partners, including:

The Arnette House, Inc. — provides safe and effective residential and non-residential programs for youth and families in Marion, Lake, Sumter, Citrus, and Hernando Counties at no cost. 

Champions for Champions — enriches the lives of people with unique abilities and their families through recreational, educational, social, arts, and life/work skills activities. 

Isaiah 117 House — supports children during foster care intake by providing a safe, supervised place to stay while placement arrangements are made. 

The Ora Clubhouse — a free, community-based organization helping individuals living with and recovering from mental illness to regain a respected place in society. 

Crime Stoppers — a national program designed to assist law enforcement agencies in solving crimes. 

VOCAL — works to solve the homeless pet problem through prevention, community outreach, adoption, and collaboration. 

“We’re excited to bring the community together again for an event that’s so meaningful. THE BIG CHEESE celebrates great food while raising funds for local organizations doing important work across our community. We invite everyone to join us for an afternoon of delicious food, friendly competition, and support that stays right here at home.” — Cicc Ferrentino, OBL President Ocala Business Leaders

(OBL) is the longest-standing business networking group in Ocala, proudly celebrating 30 years of connecting local professionals. This community offers an array of high-quality goods and services, with each member committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and satisfaction. In addition to their business endeavors, OBL also gives back to the community. 

There’s still time to join us as a sponsor, contestant, or vendor! Don’t miss out on THE BIG CHEESE. Come enjoy Ocala’s ‘grate-est’ macaroni and grilled cheese plates around. 

For more information on sponsorship, or to participate, visit thebigcheeseocala.com OR contact Cicc Ferrentino at cicc@ferrentinoandson.com | (352) 207-5144