Bands, Brew & BBQ at SeaWorld Orlando: Complete Guide to Food, Drinks & Entertainment
SeaWorld Orlando has a long history of creating unique seasonal festivals that combine delicious dining with unforgettable entertainment. Among its most popular events is Bands, Brew & BBQ, a festival that brings together the unbeatable trio of live music, mouthwatering barbecue, and refreshing craft brews.
This annual event has become a favorite for locals and tourists alike, offering a perfect way to enjoy Florida’s sunshine while indulging in smoky flavors, sipping on local craft beers, and rocking out to live performances from top artists. If you’re planning a trip to Orlando, you won’t want to miss this flavorful and fun festival.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Bands, Brew & BBQ at SeaWorld Orlando—from food highlights to drink options and must-see entertainment.
What is Bands, Brew & BBQ?
Held on select weekends, Bands, Brew & BBQ is SeaWorld Orlando’s way of celebrating the best of Southern BBQ traditions paired with live concerts and local brews. Admission to the festival is included with a regular park ticket, so you can spend the morning riding coasters and watching animal shows, then transition into an afternoon of eating, drinking, and dancing along to your favorite music.
The festival usually runs during the late winter or early spring, making it a great time to visit Orlando when the weather is still pleasant and not too hot.
BBQ Food Highlights
Food is at the heart of this event, and SeaWorld pulls out all the stops with specialty festival booths featuring barbecue from across the South and beyond. Think smoky, tender, and savory flavors that highlight traditional recipes with some creative twists.
Some favorites you may find at the festival include:
Pulled Pork Sandwiches – Slow-smoked and tossed with tangy BBQ sauce, served on a soft bun.
Smoked Brisket Plates – Juicy slices of beef brisket with bold seasoning and just the right amount of bark.
St. Louis Style Ribs – Fall-off-the-bone tender with a smoky glaze.
BBQ Chicken – Smoked and grilled to perfection, often served with savory sides.
Brisket or Pulled Pork Mac & Cheese – Creamy, cheesy, and topped with smoky meats for the ultimate comfort food.
BBQ Nachos – A fan favorite! Crispy tortilla chips piled with cheese, BBQ pork or brisket, jalapeños, and sauce.
Loaded Fries – Topped with pulled pork, brisket, or bacon for an indulgent snack.
SeaWorld often partners with local BBQ vendors and pitmasters, giving guests the chance to taste a variety of cooking styles—from sweet and sticky sauces to bold, smoky rubs.
And don’t forget dessert! Some events have featured:
Bread pudding with bourbon glaze
Seasonal cobblers
Smoked s’mores
Tip: The best way to try multiple items is with a sampling lanyard, which gives you a set number of tastings at a discounted price.
Craft Beers & Specialty Drinks
What’s BBQ without something refreshing to wash it down?
The “Brew” part of the festival is just as exciting, with a rotating lineup of beers from both local Florida breweries and national favorites.
Past offerings have included:
Funky Buddha Brewery (Oakland Park, FL)
Crooked Can Brewing Company (Winter Garden, FL)
Orange Blossom Brewing (Orlando, FL)
Samuel Adams Seasonal Brews
Bud Light, Miller Lite, and other classics
If beer isn’t your style, don’t worry—festival booths also offer:
Craft cocktails (margaritas, bourbon mixes, rum punch)
Hard ciders and seltzers
Non-alcoholic beverages like fresh lemonades and sodas
Pro Tip: Check SeaWorld’s event guide online or via their mobile app for a full list of breweries available during your visit.
Live Entertainment
The “Bands” portion of Bands, Brew & BBQ is a major draw. Every weekend, SeaWorld hosts a concert lineup with well-known artists across genres like country, classic rock, pop, and R&B.
Some past performers have included:
Lynyrd Skynyrd
Darius Rucker
Kid Rock
Sheryl Crow
Alabama
Pat Benatar
I saw fuel when I went and that was a fun experience. It can get really loud so if you have little ones, you might want to skip it or bring ear plugs.
Concerts are included with admission, but if you want guaranteed seating, reserved seats are available for an additional charge.
The concert atmosphere is high energy, but still family-friendly, making it one of the best live music experiences in Orlando outside of the big arenas.
Beyond Food & Music: SeaWorld Attractions
Another perk of attending this festival is that you get to experience all of SeaWorld Orlando’s year-round attractions in between tastings and concerts. That means:
Mako – Orlando’s tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster.
Kraken – A floorless coaster with loops and thrills.
Journey to Atlantis – A water ride with a big splash finish.
Infinity Falls – A rapids ride perfect for cooling off.
Animal Encounters – Dolphins, sea lions, orcas, and more.
This makes Bands, Brew & BBQ more than just a food festival—it’s a full theme park experience wrapped into one.
Insider Tips for the Best Experience
Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
Arrive Early – Grab food and drinks before the concert crowds gather.
Use the Sampling Lanyard – The best way to try multiple items without overspending. You can use the lanyard on multiple days, or share the sampling.
Stay Hydrated – Florida weather can be warm even in spring. Alternate brews with water.
Plan for the Concerts – Seating fills up quickly. Get your spot early or purchase reserved seating. Getting there at least an hour before is recommended if you want a good seat, especially if it’s a popular band.
Check the Event Schedule – Lineups and food vendors may vary by weekend.
Why You Should Attend
Bands, Brew & BBQ at SeaWorld Orlando isn’t just another theme park add-on—it’s a celebration of food, music, and culture that transforms your park day into a festival experience.
Foodies will love the smoky BBQ dishes and creative sides.
Beer lovers will appreciate the diverse lineup of craft brews.
Music fans will enjoy nationally recognized acts included with admission.
Families can enjoy a mix of festival fun and classic SeaWorld attractions.
If you’re looking for one of the best seasonal events in Orlando, this one deserves a top spot on your calendar.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a local or visiting Orlando on vacation, Bands, Brew & BBQ at SeaWorld Orlando is a can’t-miss event. Between the mouthwatering BBQ, refreshing drinks, live concerts, and thrilling rides, you’ll have everything you need for a perfect Florida day.
So grab a plate, raise a glass, and get ready to sing along—because SeaWorld knows how to throw a festival worth remembering.