Daily
Ocala
Sunday, March 8th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Sunday, the 8th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Marion County officials announced that a local trail is being renamed to honor two longtime radio hosts who died in a car crash last year to serve as a lasting tribute in the community. WCJB
- ➤ Aerial photos show that construction at the new Marion County Animal Shelter (located at 6405 W. Highway 40) is nearing completion, with officials planning an opening celebration later this year despite a delay from December 2025. Ocala-News
- ➤ Residents can join free dance classes every week at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center (1821 NW 21st Avenue) and at the recreation center; youth can learn line dancing Tuesday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. while pop, lock, hip-hop, jazz and contemporary sessions run Wednesday and Friday by the Recreation and Parks Department. Ocala-News
- ➤ Petty Officer 1st Class Claudyn El Dirani, whose family lives in Ocala, was named the Navy Personnel Command's Junior Sailor of the Year for her leadership and excellence. She has served five years as a hospital corpsman and credits her local support for her achievement. Ocala-News
- ➤ A celebration of life was held Saturday for Bruce Borders, a longtime veterans’ advocate from North Central Florida. Community members gathered to honor his legacy and support for local veterans. WCJB
- ➤ Everitt Heaton, a Trenton preacher and community paramedic, died at 40 after battling cancer on Mar. 7, leaving behind family and community members who appreciated his service. WCJB
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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.
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Southern Easter Prix-Fixe
12-5 p.m. — Stirrups Restaurant — Reservations required — Celebrate Easter with a Southern-inspired four-course menu and unlimited mimosas.
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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