Daily
Ocala
Saturday, March 7th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 7th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Marion County Animal Services welcomes pet adopters with three adoptable animals—Jack, a lively two-year-old, Thumbelina, a spirited 12-year-old, and Crete, a friendly three-year-old who loves trail walks. The $50 fee covers spay/neuter surgeries, vaccinations, licenses, and microchips, and the shelter is open Tuesday through Saturday. WCJB
- ➤ Ralph Templeman, a beloved softball teammate, died on Thursday, Mar. 5 after a likely self-inflicted injury at BP gas station (3101 SE Highway 484); his family is planning memorial services to honor his lasting impact. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala is offering free admission today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with exhibits, art-making activities, and film screenings of The Trip to Italy at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. at its 4333 E Silver Springs Boulevard location. Ocala-News
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ On Friday, Mar. 6, Florida's average for regular gas rose 11 cents to $3.353 per gallon, as analysts said the Iran conflict and oil shipping delays may push prices another 20 to 30 cents higher in the coming days. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ Florida gas prices rose by 47 cents from March 2 to March 6, averaging $3.353 as reported by AAA. Local drivers are advised to use gas apps to find cheaper options (price data indicates further increases may occur). Ocala StarBanner
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Marion County Public Schools will launch their 'Here Today, Ready for Tomorrow' campaign for the upcoming school year to tackle chronic absenteeism after 32% of students were absent last year. The district is partnering with local businesses + schools to offer incentives and build strong attendance habits among young learners. WCJB
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ St. Johns Water Management District issued a modified phase 2 water shortage for parts of north central Florida due to dry conditions and declining water levels (landscape irrigation now is limited to one day a week). Officials urge businesses, farmers and residents to reduce water use as conditions worsen. WCJB
- ➤ Ocala residents will set their clocks forward at 2 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, as daylight saving time begins (mornings will be darker while evenings grow longer until the summer solstice). Ocala StarBanner
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ Popular Florida influencer couple The Hughleys will visit GG’s Heavenly Soul Food on Saturday, March 14 to try the famous fried ribs at 925 NW 27th Avenue in Ocala — a highlight of the city’s cherished soul food scene. Ocala-News
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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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Ocala Arabian Spring Qualifier
8 AM – 9 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free admission — Celebrate the beauty and versatility of the Arabian horse across various disciplines.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
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