Good morning, Ocala.

Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers will open its first Ocala location on Tuesday, March 3 at 2410 SW College Road — inside the Ocala West shopping plaza — with drive-thru and dine-in service as the company hires new staff amid growing local retail activity.

Mark Casse will become the sixth Chairman of Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company, succeeding Francis Vanlangendonck after his 35-year tenure.

Casse, who has served on the board since 2001, leads Casse Racing operations with his wife in Ocala.

Ocala residents opting out of traditional Valentine's Day can celebrate love in various ways: Black Love Day is held today to honor Black culture, Palentine's Day is tomorrow for platonic friendships, and National Love Your Pet Day is scheduled for Feb.

20 to pamper pets.

Marion County Fire Rescue warns that dry conditions are raising fire risk as a burn ban remains in place; officials stress that even a lit cigarette butt can spark a blaze + urge residents to dispose of smoking materials safely.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection offers free day-use admission at Silver Springs State Park and Rainbow Springs State Park from Friday, Feb.

13 through Monday, Feb. 16 in honor of America’s 250th anniversary, although overnight fees and rentals remain in effect.

Levy County officials declared a state of emergency and issued a countywide burn ban in response to worsening drought conditions.

They advised residents to follow the restrictions to reduce fire risks.

Former Miami Beach mayor Philip Levine bought 26.68 acres for $2M on Jan.

27 at the NW corner of SE Highway 484 and S Highway 475; the property, zoned A-1, lies two miles east of I-75 and may support a Rural Activity Center Commercial.

Marion County couple Nita and Tony Ipsale say their new home will soon be next to a planned four-lane highway project with widened lanes and bike lanes — affecting driveway access and worsening Nita’s health; they urge officials to consider a buyout as construction is set to last at least a year.

Ocala Anime-Fest

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Latino Festival

11 AM – 6 PM — Ocala Citizens' Circle — Free entry — Celebrate Latin American culture with music, food, and handicrafts.

Candlelight Tribute to Queen and The Beatles

4-7 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical candlelight concert showcasing the legendary music of Queen and The Beatles.

The Ocala Boat Show

11 a.m. – 7 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Exclusive boat show savings — Discover the latest models from MasterCraft, Barletta, and Tidewater with expert guidance for your next adventure.

Irish Eyes are Mile'ing 5K

8 a.m. — Ocala Citizens' Circle — $30 early entry fee — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a 5K run supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.