Ocala City Council Clears the Way for Christmas in July Block Party Featuring LFO’s Brad Fischetti

The council approved alcohol sales for a family-friendly July 25 block party on SW Broadway featuring LFO’s Brad Fischetti, Kylie Morgan and local talent, with proceeds benefiting the Marion County Literacy Council.

The exterior of a pub with grey, concrete walls sits at the corner of a street. The front of the building has a black awning above a door on the left and two windows to the right. Chair line the wall under the windows on the right. A sign toward the top of the building reads, "The Black Sheep" and a smaller sign to the right of the door reads "128." In front of the building is a planter with green plants filling the entirety of the planter with a tree toward the right and a light pole reaching up through the tree.

352todayThe Ocala City Council approved a temporary permit for the sale of alcohol outside during Black Sheep on Broadway's upcoming Christmas in July event.

OCALA- FL (352Today.com) – When ’90s boy band LFO sang about liking it when the girls stopped by in the summer, they probably weren’t picturing palm trees, Christmas lights, or a one-hit-wonder singer performing on a blocked-off street in downtown Ocala. But that’s exactly what’s coming to SW Broadway this July.

On Tuesday, July 7, 2026, the Ocala City Council approved Resolution 2026-42, authorizing alcohol sales in a designated downtown event zone for The Black Sheep on Broadway’s Christmas in July Block Party. The family-friendly event is set for Saturday, July 25, from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on SW Broadway and will benefit the Marion County Literacy Council.

First Downtown Event Center Activation of 2026

Endira Madraveren, chief planning official for the city’s Growth Management Department, said the event marks the first activation of 2026 within the Downtown Event Center. Participating vendors include Black Sheep on Broadway and District Bar and Kitchen. She noted that the applicant provided a certificate of liability insurance and is coordinating with the Ocala Police Department on road closures, as well as other city departments on event layouts and any required state licensing.

Meigan Sardinia, co-owner of Black Sheep on Broadway, expressed excitement about bringing the festive concept to downtown Ocala.

“We’re incredibly excited to bring Christmas in July to Downtown Ocala,” Sardinia said.

“Our goal is to create a fun, family-friendly event that brings the community together while giving back. A portion of every ticket sold will benefit the Marion County Literacy Council, so it’s a chance for everyone to enjoy a great day while supporting an important local organization,” she continued.

The block party will take place on the stretch featuring the two local restaurants, with additional local vendors set up along the street.

“It’s something a little different this time,” Sardinia said.

One of the highlights is the entertainment lineup, which blends national recognition with hometown talent.

“One of the things I’m most looking forward to is bringing together an incredible lineup of entertainment,” Sardinia said.

“We’re excited to welcome Brad Fischetti of LFO for a dose of ’90s nostalgia, country singer/songwriter Kylie Morgan and one of our own local favorites, Conrad Marcum. It’s the perfect mix of nationally recognized artists and hometown talent,” she continued.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and settle in for an afternoon and evening of live music, food and drinks, local vendors and plenty of Christmas spirit in the middle of summer.

“It’s all about celebrating our community, supporting local businesses and creating an event that we hope becomes a Downtown Ocala tradition for years to come,” Sardinia said.

The council’s approval follows standard procedures for downtown events and includes the necessary permissions for alcohol service within the event zone. Organizers have submitted required documentation, including insurance and site plans and are working closely with city departments to ensure a smooth and safe event.

For ticket information, vendor details, or updates, follow The Black Sheep on Broadway on social media or visit their website. A portion of every ticket directly supports literacy programs through the Marion County Literacy Council.