Daily
Ocala
Thursday, February 5th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 5th of February.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ City officials announced that skateboarding legend Rodney Mullen will help celebrate the grand re-opening of the expanded Ocala Skatepark on March 28. The project, costing nearly $1 million and adding over 6,000 sqft, has been in the works since early last year. WCJB
- ➤ The 13th annual Sporting Clays Tournament will take place Friday in North Central Florida to benefit the Ronald McDonald House, and local competitors are expected to join in friendly competition — more details on registration will be shared soon. WCJB
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Land is cleared near SW Hwy 484 for Walmart supercenter led by The Phillips Edison Group on behalf of 484 Road Runner Resources + site plans include a 146,261 sqft building, liquor store, grocery pickup and drive-thru lanes. The project awaits county planning and zoning approvals before construction begins. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Downtown Ocala will host the Brick City Bluegrass Festival on Saturday, Feb. 7 from 1 to 7 p.m. at Citizens’ Circle, featuring bluegrass bands and food trucks; advance tickets cost $30 (veterans $10, free for kids under 8). Ocala-News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ According to NOAA data, most of North Central Florida entered level three drought after very low rainfall in early 2026, triggering multiple wildfires & county burn bans. Rain on Feb. 4 provided less than half an inch and did little to ease the water shortage. WCJB
- ➤ A bill to restore the Ocklawaha River passed at the state capitol despite some opposition, paving the way for improved water quality + enhanced local wildlife habitats. WCJB
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Marion County commissioners approved renaming part of SE 142nd Court in Weirsdale as Fritch Court during Tuesday’s meeting + it honors the century-long legacy of the Fritch family, whose local contributions helped build community life. Ocala-News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Publix Pharmacy announced a discount card program for GLP-1 medications, including Wegovy + Ozempic, that lets eligible customers fill prescriptions starting at $149 per month; shoppers should speak with a pharmacist for current details. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ Costco recalled mini beignets that were mistakenly packaged with chocolate hazelnut beignets in 23 states including Florida between Jan. 16 and Jan. 30; customers with nut allergies are urged to return the product for a refund. Ocala StarBanner
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Olympian Brittany Bowe was surprised yesterday in Ocala when her childhood coach, Renee Hildebrand, visited her and reminded her of the dedication and tradition that shaped her skating career + prepared her for her final Winter Olympics. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ Marion County high school basketball teams played district tournament games yesterday and will compete in semifinals today. Results from Belleview and Forest set the stage for matchups featuring Meadowbrook, North Marion, and Redeemer Christian as local updates continue. Ocala StarBanner
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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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Burnyzz Gatornationals FanFest 2026
6-9 p.m. — Burnyzz — Vehicle registration $10 early, $15 day of show — Celebrate the Gatornationals with live music, driver autographs, and family-friendly activities.
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L.E.A.F. Series: Spring Gardens Workshop
10:30 a.m. — Sholom Park — Free — Get hands-on guidance for preparing and planting your spring garden in this interactive workshop.
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