Daily
Ocala
Tuesday, March 24th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Tuesday, the 24th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Freedom Public Library on the southwest side of Ocala closed yesterday for renovations and will remain closed for a few weeks while officials update patrons on reopening plans. WCJB
- ➤ Marion County Fire Station 20 held a public blessing ceremony for its new baby box at 10 a.m. Monday. WCJB
- ➤ The Marion County Board of County Commissioners approved the World Equestrian Center sports complex during its March 18 Planning & Zoning meeting, clearing final hurdles for a project that will include multiple sports fields and a concert/events center. Ocala Gazette
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Chipotle will build its fourth location in Ocala in Silver Springs Shores — between Caliber Car Wash and Aldi — and will offer indoor and outdoor seating plus a digital drive-thru lane. The project was reviewed by the Marion County Development Review Committee. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The marble statue of Ambassador Molly has been relocated to the CF Appleton Museum of Art in Ocala (her permanent home until mid-September) after previous damage led to a protective fence. This move ensures the local treasure is preserved for over 70,000 annual visitors. Ocala Gazette
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Gas prices in Florida held near $4 per gallon over the weekend amid global market volatility — AAA reported the average at $3.94 on Sunday with a 22-cent gain from last week. Ocala Gazette
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Marion County firefighters shared dramatic photos on Monday, Mar. 23 of their efforts to protect trailer homes from a 20-acre fire in Ocala National Forest. WCJB
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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.
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Orange Blossom Classic
8 a.m. – 8 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Varies — Experience top-level Quarter Horse competition with significant prize money on the line.
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Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival
10 AM - 5 PM — Tuscawilla Art Park — Free entry — Celebrate the power of language with live poetry, author showcases, and musical performances.
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A Sudden Impulse Quarter Horse Show
8 AM – 8 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $735,000 in guaranteed prize money — Experience thrilling competition with AQHA and NSBA classes at this premier equestrian event.
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Hot Cars and Cool Cats Car Show
10 AM — The Hot Cars and Cool Cats Car Show at The Nassiveras — $10 entry for vehicles — Experience custom trophies, great food, music, and support a good cause at this fun-filled car show.
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.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Other people's opinion of you does not have to become your reality.
~ Les Brown
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