Good morning, Ocala.

The longstanding McIntosh 1890s Festival in northern Marion County was permanently discontinued because of rising costs and declining community support, according to the Friends of McIntosh (in a letter released on Tuesday, Jan.

13), and the group will refocus its efforts on local philanthropic programs.

Local residents in Ocala are set to join a national Free America Walkout by gathering at Ocala Downtown Square from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. tomorrow, Jan.

17, as one of 28 Florida events planned.

Bob Evans permanently closed its restaurant on State Road 200 at 3535 SW College Road in Ocala; customers are now advised to visit the two remaining locations.

No reason was provided for the closure.

Aldi announced that it will open over 180 stores nationwide in 2026, including several in Florida from converted Winn-Dixie and Harvey's locations.

The expansion includes a grand opening in Deerfield Beach (Thursday, Jan. 22) and upgrades to its Haines City distribution center.

Meteorologists raised the chance of snow in northern Florida as a second cold front is set to hit late Saturday; the forecast shows a (40% chance) for snow in the Panhandle while widespread freeze warnings and record-low temperatures continue statewide.

Federal and state offices including post offices and schools will be closed Monday, Jan.

19 for Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday so mail delivery is suspended and regular services will resume Tuesday.

Marion County Animal Services is offering three adoptable pets, including Raven (6-year-old), Tiger (11-year-old) and Ozzie known for his calm style.

The shelter, open Tuesday through Saturday, charges a $50 fee covering spay/neuter services, vaccinations and microchipping.

Visitors to The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park can enjoy nine ziplines, rope bridges, and a rappel plus horseback riding and kayaking over a 90-minute adventure in a 100-year-old limestone quarry just north of Ocala.

Prices range from $65.99 to $119.99 and guides support all participants.

Vanguard’s girls soccer team boasts a perfect 17-0 record and standout players Kendal Davis and Ashlyn Wan as it heads into district play next week in Class 4A — the team has allowed just four goals all season and now eyes a state title run.

Buchholz boys edged The Rock 59 – 58, while North Marion girls defended their home court in a spirited matchup.

The games added wins to both teams' records during a busy night of local competition.

Free Movie: Rocky

12-2 p.m. — Epic Theatres of Ocala — Free entry — Experience the inspiring classic 'Rocky' and witness the power of perseverance and self-belief.

Mid Florida Truck and Tractor Pull

12:00 AM — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion — Adults $20, Kids $10, 6 & under free — Experience the thrill of roaring engines and powerful machines in a local favorite event.

Car & Craft Show

10 AM – 2 PM — The Arc of Marion — $15 cars, $10 crafts — Celebrate creativity and vehicles while supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Little Shop of Horrors Opening Night

5:30-7 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Drinks available — Enjoy a pre-show gathering with the director on opening night of a beloved musical.

JUCO Baseball Showcase 2026

9 AM - 3 PM — College of Central Florida Ocala Campus — Registration fee required — A one-day event for high school players to showcase their skills to JUCO coaches.

Brick City Bluegrass Festival

7 p.m. — Ocala Citizens' Circle — Tickets available now — Enjoy live performances from your favorite bluegrass artists at this year's festival.

Special Olympics Florida

All day — Florida Horse Park — Free entry — Celebrate athleticism and inclusion at the Special Olympics in Ocala.

Little Shop of Horrors Live Performance

2:00 – 4:30 PM — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Experience the hilarious and thrilling story of Seymour and his eccentric plant in this beloved musical.

First Time Home Buyer Workshop

5-9 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — Free entry — Gain expert insights and resources to make your home buying journey smooth and successful.

Ocala Anime-Fest

10 AM – 5 PM — Hilton Ocala — Ticket prices vary — Experience a vibrant gathering for anime enthusiasts in a welcoming community setting.