Daily
Ocala
Saturday, March 28th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 28th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ US Census Bureau data released on Thursday shows that the Ocala metropolitan area maintained its title as the fastest-growing region by reaching 442,660 residents as of July 1 with a growth of 3.4% while most other areas slowed down — marking its second consecutive year in the top spot. Ocala-News
- ➤ Marion County Animal Services highlights adoptable pets including Tazzy, a six-year-old who loves good company, Pancake, a one-and-a-half-year-old ready to share love, and Ronnie, an 11-month-old eager for learning; a $50 fee covers spay and neuter surgeries, licenses, vaccinations and microchips, and the shelter welcomes visits Tuesday through Saturday. WCJB
- ➤ A $100,000 winning lottery ticket sold at the SW Highway 200 Publix for the Florida Lottery’s midday Fantasy 5 drawing on March 26 remains unclaimed as of Friday afternoon — the winner has 180 days to claim the prize. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Geek Fest will return to the Ocala Downtown Market this Sunday, Mar. 29, from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. featuring over 65 vendors offering comics, cards and vintage collectibles along with food trucks, cosplay contests and live entertainment. Ocala-News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ North Central Florida farmers face the worst drought in 20 years, making it hard to water crops for the planned Memorial Day watermelon harvest. They need over a foot of rain in a month and rely on drip irrigation + soil moisture monitors to decide when to water fields. WCJB
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The Florida Highway Patrol said an active wildfire near U.S. 301 and SE 151st Street in Summerfield created dangerous driving conditions in south Marion County. Officials said lingering smoke may reduce visibility and advised drivers to slow down + use low-beam headlights. Ocala-News
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Health officials warn Marion County residents to avoid wildlife contact after a raccoon died near Huntington on March 20 and later tested positive for rabies, marking the second confirmed case this month. Residents are urged to secure attractants and update pet vaccinations as advised by DOH-Marion. Ocala-News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ The Ocala Women’s Roller Derby League, Brick City Rollers, practices on Tuesdays and Sundays for full-contact games that celebrate strength, speed & sisterhood. Their training sessions and on-track competitions help team members build athletic skills while embracing self-expression. ClickOrlando
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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.
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Ocala Big Bloom Home & Garden Show
12-6 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free admission — Discover a vibrant showcase of flowers and hands-on gardening activities for all ages.
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International Jazz, Art & Poetry Festival Ocala
6-8 PM — Appleton Museum of Art — Fundraising event — Immerse yourself in jazz, vibrant art, and soulful poetry while honoring jazz legends Dizzy Gillespie and Alice Coltrane.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
Success is never owned; it is only rented—and the rent is due every day.
~ Rory Vaden
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