Several local residents have been nominated for a chance to be named “Hometown Hero” and win VIP tickets to see Nickelback and Kid Rock at next year’s Rock The Country music festival in Ocala.
On Thursday, Rock The Country organizers announced the following finalists in Ocala who are vying for the Hometown Hero award:
- Ben Fritz – Fritz has “educated, inspired, and saved countless lives” through his public battle with colon cancer in Marion County. “His raw honesty and dedication to early detection awareness have made him a beloved hero in his community,” reads the organization’s statement.
- Brent Murray – Murray is a fire chief and mentor to aspiring firefighters. “His leadership, active church involvement, and unwavering support for his community make him a true hometown hero,” according to the organization.
- Noah Hunton – Hunton is a local singer and dedicated volunteer who uses his music “to inspire and connect with his community, especially children. His passion and commitment to giving back make him a shining light in Ocala,” reads the organization’s statement.
Voting is open for Rock The Country’s Hometown Hero award through Monday, December 2.
The “Hometown Hero” sweepstakes will recognize local residents in each of the ten cities where Rock The Country will take place.
The individual who earns the most votes in each city will be awarded the following:
- 2 VIP Tickets
- Backstage Tour
- Leading the Pledge of Allegiance on Stage
- Rock the Country merchandise
Rock The Country returns to Ocala on Friday, May 9, and Saturday, May 10, 2025.
Although last year’s festival took place in Reddick, next year’s concert will be at the Florida Horse Park in Ocala. Nickelback and Kid Rock are scheduled to headline the event, which takes place on May 9 and May 10, 2025.
Over 30,000 fans attended the first Rock The Country in the Ocala area, which took place on June 7 and June 8, 2024. The inaugural two-day festival was headlined by Kid Rock and Jason Aldean and featured a star-studded slate of musical performing artists.
To cast your vote for one of the individuals, visit Rock The Country’s Hometown Hero event page.
UPDATE: Another resident who was nominated for this award was removed from this story after Ocala-News.com was informed that the nominee never gave permission to participate.
