Get ready, Florida – the Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash Ocala 2026 is thundering into Ocala on Saturday, June 20, 2026! This fan-favorite event lands at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion for one unforgettable night combining heart-pounding bull riding with a headline performance by country star Gary Allan.
Bull Bash Ocala 2026: What Is the Bull Bash?
The Bull Bash Ocala 2026 event is produced by Tampa Bay Rodeo, owned by Ryan Henning, who launched the series five years ago after noticing a lack of rodeo events in the Tampa Bay and Central Florida area. What started as a passion project has grown into one of Florida’s most exciting live entertainment experiences – combining elite bull riding with top-tier country music acts under one roof.
Past editions have featured country legends like Justin Moore, Trace Adkins, Chris Janson, and Clay Walker, and this Bull Bash Ocala 2026 installment is no different. The Ocala event marks a special return to Marion County, bringing the Bull Bash to the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion for an evening that promises to be bigger and better than ever.
Saturday, June 20 – Full Event Schedule
- 3:30 PM – Free parking opens (arrive early to beat the lines)
- 4:30 PM – Gates open to the public
- 5:15 PM – Local favorite Noah Hunton takes the stage
- 7:00 PM – Bull Bash competition begins
- 8:40 PM – Gary Allan headlines (approximate start time)
The event is fully covered, so it runs rain or shine. Enjoy delicious food, ice-cold beer, a mechanical bull, and retail vendors throughout the evening.
Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary
This year’s Bull Bash carries an extra layer of meaning – it kicks off with a salute to the brave men and women of the military in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary of independence. It’s a night to honor freedom, enjoy the best of American culture, and cheer on the best bull riders in the region as they compete for the title and cash prizes.
Gary Allan Live at Bull Bash Ocala 2026
After the bull riding action wraps up, Gary Allan takes the stage for a high-energy headline set. Known for his raucous live performances and smoldering vocals, Gary Allan brings a career-spanning show to Ocala that covers over 25 years of country music.
Expect a 90-plus-minute set full of honky-tonk stompers, emotional ballads, and every song you know by heart. Want the full breakdown on Gary Allan – his story, his biggest hits, and what to expect? Read our full Gary Allan artist profile here.
Location: Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, Ocala, FL
The Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala, Florida is spacious, covered, and built for big nights. Located in the heart of horse country, Ocala is no stranger to western culture, making it an ideal home for the Bull Bash. Free parking is available on-site starting at 3:30 PM.
How to Get Tickets
Tickets are on sale now at the Tampa Bay Rodeo official website. Tickets can also be purchased at the door, but advance purchase is strongly recommended to avoid long lines. The venue accepts credit cards. For ticketing support, contact the Sarasota Box Office at +1 (800) 756-8048.
When and where is the Bull Bash in Ocala?
The Bull Bash & Country Music Festival takes place on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala, Florida. Free parking opens at 3:30 PM and gates open at 4:30 PM.
Who is performing at the Bull Bash Ocala 2026?
Gary Allan headlines the event, taking the stage at approximately 8:40 PM. Local favorite Noah Hunton opens at 5:15 PM before the bull riding competition begins at 7:00 PM. Learn more about Gary Allan here.
Is the Bull Bash in Ocala rain or shine?
Yes! The event is fully covered, so it runs rain or shine. You can enjoy food, cold beer, a mechanical bull, and all the action regardless of the weather.
Sources
- Tampa Bay Rodeo – Official Website
- Tampa Bay Rodeo – Event Dates
- The Observer News – Tampa Bay Rodeo Heralds America’s 250th Anniversary
- Sunset Country Fest – Gary Allan at the Bull Bash Ocala 2026