Daily
Ocala
Thursday, January 29th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 29th of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Residents in Ocala have mixed views about the upcoming BJ’s Wholesale Club. Some worry the store and planned 1,700 new homes may worsen traffic and road conditions—while others welcome the added retail option. Ocala-News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ The new Walmart Neighborhood Market held its ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday at 8:30 a.m. on Southeast Maricamp Road & Tim Tebow greeted hundreds of fans as the store created over 100 local jobs. WCJB
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Audrey II makes a triumphant return in the Civic Theatre's 75th season of 'Little Shop of Horrors,' playing today through Feb. 15 at 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd. The production offers classic cult humor and catchy tunes for a campy musical experience. Ocala Gazette
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Marion County School Board approved a $400,000 purchase of 19 metal detectors for high schools and events after a vote on Tuesday, Jan. 27. The new systems will be used during school hours and at special events to enhance security + minimize disruptions. Ocala-News
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Ocala city leaders said roads will close for CSX crews to perform maintenance on several railroad crossings — residents should plan for delays. WCJB
REAL ESTATE NEWS
- ➤ A new Margaritaville water park at Camp Margaritaville Resort Orange Lake in Citra seeks county permission to build a 145-foot slide and sell day passes to the public; county commissioners will vote on the proposal next month. The luxury resort — featuring RV sites, cottages, and leisure areas — is slated to open early 2026. Ocala-News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Ocala’s World Equestrian Center uses heated indoor arenas and climate-controlled barns to keep over 2,300 horses and riders warm during the cold snap. Visitors will enjoy indoor competitions, including Saturday’s Grand Prix starting at 5 p.m. FOX 35 Orlando
- ➤ Horse Capital TV covers the HITS Ocala Winter Circuit — an equestrian event drawing top talent — as competitions go on today in Ocala. WCJB
- ➤ Newberry earned its No. 1 seed in 3A districts playing at home — Eastside extended its win streak to seven with a 57-53 victory over Oak Hall and will face GHS on Friday. WCJB
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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.
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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.
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Special Olympics Florida
All day — Florida Horse Park — Free entry — Celebrate athleticism and inclusion at the Special Olympics in Ocala.
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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.
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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.
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Ocala Anime-Fest
10 AM – 5 PM — Hilton Ocala — Ticket prices vary — Experience a vibrant gathering for anime enthusiasts in a welcoming community setting.
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2026 All for the Horses Expo
9 AM - 2 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free admission — Experience an expansive equine expo featuring elite brands, live demonstrations, and interactive showcases.
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Candlelight: Tribute to Adele
8:30-9:29 PM — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — $31.44 — Experience the soulful music of Adele illuminated by candlelight in a unique atmosphere.
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10th Annual VOCAL Furball: A Western Extravaganza
6-10 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Ticket required — A whimsical night of Western style and heartfelt giving for Marion County's cats and dogs.
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TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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