Good morning, Ocala.

A Dunnellon resident writes that traffic on State Road 200 is unbearable and warns that congestion will worsen when schools and parks are added (the letter also notes concerns about lost horse farms, trees and turtle habitats).

Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park will add a jet + tank + Humvee and new monuments along with updated parking and signage as part of major updates.

The changes will be discussed at the Board meeting Tuesday, March 3 at 9 a.m. at the McPherson Governmental Complex.

Residents in Ocala can see a total lunar eclipse (blood moon) on Tuesday, March 3 from 3:44 to 6:53 a.m. ET, reaching its peak at 6:33 a.m. ET, weather permitting.

Ocala CEP hosted its annual luncheon today, where local business leaders shared ideas and discussed future business trends.

Dr. Danielle Brewer became the permanent superintendent at Marion County Public Schools after a unanimous board vote last week + she is the second appointed and fourth female leader in the district’s 157-year history.

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.

Live On Stage: Steel Magnolias

2-4 PM — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Price info not provided — Experience heartfelt laughter in a vibrant Louisiana beauty salon.

Marion County Fair at I-75 Flea Market

4-11 p.m. — i-75 Flea Market-Vallejo Eventos — $5 admission — Experience family-friendly rides, games, live music, and thrilling circus acts at this annual community fair.

Park After Dark: Musical Mosaic Featuring Gypsy Sparrow

5:15-6:15 p.m. — Sholom Park — $20 per person — Experience a dynamic concert with Gypsy Sparrow performing classic hits across the decades.

Tara Cannistraci Stand-Up Comedy Show

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Marion Theatre — Tickets available — Enjoy a night of Bronx-born humor from Italian-American comedian Tara Cannistraci.