MCBIA King of the Wing
Ocala's premier wing cook-off competition. Local restaurants, firefighters, and community teams battle for bragging rights while raising money for The Arc of Marion.
What Is King of the Wing?
King of the Wing is an annual wing cook-off competition organized by the Marion County Building Industry Association (MCBIA). Held each year at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala, the event brings together local restaurants, chefs, businesses, and community organizations to compete for the title of best wings in Marion County.
Attendees sample wings from every competing team, vote for their favorites, and enjoy live music, a Kids' Zone, and community networking — all while supporting a great cause. Every dollar raised benefits The Arc of Marion, a nonprofit that provides programs and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The event runs from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on a weeknight (typically a Tuesday in early March), making it an accessible after-work community gathering that draws hundreds of attendees each year.
2026 Results & Recap
People's Choice Award
Professional Firefighters of Marion County
Voted the crowd favorite by attendees who sampled wings from every team at the 2026 event.
Best Decorated Booth
Rauley's Twisted, Toasted and Smoked
Representing Stentiford Construction, this team brought top-tier presentation alongside their wings.
2026 Event Details
What to Expect
Wing Cook-Off
Teams of local restaurants, businesses, and organizations compete with their best wing recipes. Attendees sample from every team and vote.
Judging & Awards
Awards include People's Choice (crowd vote) and Best Decorated Booth. Competing teams go all out on flavor and presentation.
Live Music
Live entertainment keeps the energy high throughout the evening as you eat, mingle, and explore the venue.
Community Networking
A major gathering for Marion County's building industry and broader community. Great for meeting local business owners and neighbors.
Kids' Zone
Family-friendly activities keep younger attendees entertained while parents enjoy the cook-off and socializing.
Blood Drive
An on-site blood drive runs from 3:00 to 9:00 PM, giving attendees an opportunity to donate while at the event.
Tickets & Admission
Adult Admission
$25
- Wing sampling from all teams
- 2 beverages included
- Live music & entertainment
- People's Choice voting
Kids (Ages 5-12)
$5
- Wing sampling access
- Kids' Zone activities
- Children under 5 free
Pricing reflects the 2026 event. Ticket prices for 2027 may vary. Check MCBIA for the latest information.
For a Good Cause
Every ticket sold and every dollar raised at King of the Wing benefits The Arc of Marion, a local nonprofit that provides vital programs, services, and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Marion County.
The event is organized by the Marion County Building Industry Association (MCBIA), a trade association representing builders, contractors, and related businesses across Marion County. MCBIA uses King of the Wing as its flagship fundraiser, connecting the building industry with the broader community in support of a meaningful cause.
By attending, you're doing more than eating great wings — you're directly supporting programs that make a difference for Marion County residents with disabilities.
2027 Event
Date To Be Announced
The 2027 King of the Wing date has not been announced yet. Based on past years, expect the event in early March 2027 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion.
We'll update this page as soon as the 2027 date, ticket pricing, and team registration details are confirmed by MCBIA. Follow the Marion County Building Industry Association for the latest announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is King of the Wing Ocala?
King of the Wing is held annually, typically in early March. The 2026 event was held on Tuesday, March 3, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The 2027 date has not been announced yet — check back or follow MCBIA for updates.
Where is King of the Wing held?
King of the Wing takes place at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, located at 2800 SE Maricamp Road in Ocala, Florida. The pavilion is a large covered venue that provides plenty of space for cook-off teams, attendees, and entertainment.
How much are tickets for King of the Wing?
In 2026, tickets were $25 for adults and $5 for children ages 5-12. Admission includes wing sampling from all competing teams and two beverages. Children under 5 are free.
Who organizes King of the Wing?
King of the Wing is organized by the Marion County Building Industry Association (MCBIA). Proceeds from the event benefit The Arc of Marion, a nonprofit that provides services and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Marion County.
Can I enter a team in the wing cook-off?
Yes. Local restaurants, businesses, organizations, and community groups can register a team to compete. Teams prepare and serve their signature wings to attendees and compete for awards including People's Choice and Best Decorated Booth. Contact MCBIA directly for registration details and team fees.
Who won King of the Wing 2026?
The Professional Firefighters of Marion County won the People's Choice award at the 2026 event. Rauley's Twisted, Toasted and Smoked, representing Stentiford Construction, won Best Decorated Booth.
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