Good morning, Ocala.

McIntosh town council approved volunteers to run the historic festival on Oct.

17. The decision keeps the beloved event alive for community members as they look forward to a revived tradition.

Retired Army Captain Steve Petty was honored on Tuesday morning at the Marion County Board meeting at the McPherson Governmental Complex when Jan.

10 was proclaimed as Steve Petty Day and he was inducted into the Florida Veterans’ Hall of Fame. He thanked local support for veterans (highlighting community sacrifice).

The World Equestrian Center opened its new Equestrian Manor today, featuring over 300,000 sqft of indoor & outdoor event space and restaurants like The Polo Pony and Emma’s Patisserie at 1750 NW 80th Avenue in Ocala.

Officials say rooftop dining and a shopping complex will open later this year.

Fire crews in Ocala National Forest are conducting prescribed burns today east of Highway 19 and north of County Road 42 to reduce hazardous fuels and protect local communities from wildfires; authorities warn that roads may be temporarily closed and drivers should check air quality updates online.

State inspectors reported that 17 Marion County restaurants had high-priority health violations during inspections from Jan.

12-18, with issues ranging from inadequate hand washing to improper temperature control. Some establishments are undergoing follow-up reviews to correct repeated concerns.

Midway 65 LLC asked to rezone a 110-acre site east of Silver Springs Shores from Single-Family Dwelling (R-1) to a planned unit development for 329 new homes.

The Planning and Zoning board approved the request on Dec. 29, and the BOCC reviewed it on Jan. 20.

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.