The upcoming Brewfest, scheduled for this Sunday from 2 to 6 PM at the intersection of West 16 and 76, has sparked discussions among city officials regarding the regulations surrounding the serving of alcoholic beverages at public events. During a recent government meeting, a city attorney clarified the legal framework governing such events, particularly in relation to Florida state statutes.

The attorney explained that while the ordinance allows for the serving of beer and wine, it does not extend to spirits. This aligns with amendments made by Governor DeSantis last year, which expanded the parameters for service areas and the number of attendees at such events. However, the attorney emphasized that any event serving alcohol must still adhere to a permitting process, which includes obtaining approval from the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco.

A key point of discussion was the requirement for food to be served alongside alcoholic beverages. While the attorney acknowledged the common practice of providing food at festivals, he indicated that further research would be necessary to confirm whether there is a specific statutory requirement mandating food service at municipal events. Additionally, safety protocols, including crowd control and security measures, are essential components of the event planning process.

As Brewfest approaches, city officials are ensuring compliance with state regulations to facilitate a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees.