Otter Fest returns to Wekiva Island with riverside tastings Jan. 31

Wekiva Island will again transform its riverbank into a tasting corridor when Otter Fest returns for its eighth year on Jan. 31. The festival runs from 2 to 5 p.m., with VIP ticket-holders receiving an extra hour of exclusive tasting beginning at 1 p.m. The event promises unlimited samplings from regional breweries and wineries alongside non-alcoholic options for those observing Dry January.

Organizers are billing the event as a showcase of regional producers. Confirmed participants include 3 Daughters Brewing, Southern Tier, Victory Brewing and Bold Rock Ciders, among several others. Food will be available from onsite vendors such as Without a Paddle Café, and VIP attendees will have access to exclusive cabanas and taproom-only releases. Tickets are priced at $55 for general admission and $75 for VIP, and attendance is restricted to those 21 and older. Otter Fest will proceed rain or shine along the banks of the Wekiva River.

For Seminole County residents, Otter Fest is more than a weekend outing. The festival draws visitors to the county’s riverfront recreation area and provides direct economic activity for local vendors and participating breweries. Events like this help sustain Wekiva Island as an event space and demonstrate demand for riverfront programming that can boost weekday and weekend visitation outside the traditional boating season.

There are practical considerations for residents and neighbors. The event’s riverbank setting concentrates activity in a compact area, which can increase traffic and demand for parking in nearby neighborhoods. Attendees and locals should plan travel and arrival times accordingly and consider carpooling or rideshares. Wekiva Island can be reached at 407-862-1500 for additional event information, including accessibility questions and any last-minute logistical updates.

The festival also reflects broader trends in local recreation and hospitality. Craft beverage festivals have become a fixture in Central Florida, providing small and regional producers a platform to reach consumers directly. Otter Fest’s inclusion of non-alcoholic selections acknowledges changing consumption patterns and offers an entry point for those observing Dry January or seeking alternatives to alcohol.

The takeaway? If you plan to go, buy tickets ahead of time for the best price and consider the VIP option only if you want the early hour, exclusive cabanas and limited-release pours. If you’re staying home, expect heavier traffic near Wekiva Island that afternoon and evening. For questions or ticket information, call Wekiva Island at 407-862-1500.