Friday, March 6th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 6th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Yeraldiny Luevano Baza, an Ocala woman, won $1 million from the Florida Lottery’s Diamond Spectacular scratch-off game when she purchased her ticket at Quick King Food Store #12 on W. Highway 40; she opted for a lump-sum payment of $606,700 on Dec. 3 after the 90-day anonymity period ended. Ocala-News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Since March 2, Florida gas prices have jumped nearly 36 cents per gallon, and experts say prices will rise another 10 to 30 cents as global supply concerns persist. Locals are advised to check with local fuel stations for current prices before filling up. Ocala StarBanner
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Community members including parents and teachers urged the school board to reconsider a proposal to close Sparr Elementary next year after hours of emotional testimony. The board postponed rezoning until the 2027 — 2028 school year and will hold another meeting to gather further community feedback. ClickOrlando
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Hummingbirds start their spring migration with ruby-throated birds already seen in Florida; residents can attract these small species by planting bright tubular flowers or setting out feeders as the season continues through late September. Ocala StarBanner
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Eaton’s Beach remains a cherished local spot in Weirsdale where families can enjoy swimming, live music on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, rental boats, a bar, and lunch while attentive staff keep a safe environment (a laid-back vibe that has been part of the community for over a century). WCJB
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The fourth annual Burnyzz & NHRA Gatornationals FanFest and Car Show took place on Wednesday, Mar. 4 at Burnyzz Speed Shop, featuring 16X Funny Car champion John Force and host Josh Hart with his wife Brittany as fans got a sneak peek before the Gatornationals. Ocala Gazette
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Latino Festival
11 AM – 6 PM — Ocala Citizens' Circle — Free entry — Celebrate Latin American culture with music, food, and handicrafts.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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3rd Annual Ocala Spring Craft Fair
10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Discover over 200 artisans showcasing their creativity and craftsmanship at this vibrant craft fair.
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Tailgate at For Love of the Horse Polo Classic
12-6 p.m. — Florida Horse Park — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a thrilling afternoon of competitive polo in Ocala's scenic horse capital.
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