Good morning, Ocala.

Marion County Day took place on Saturday, March 29 at McPherson Governmental Campus in Ocala and celebrated the county’s 181st birthday with family-friendly activities and vendor booths.

Visitors enjoyed a bounce house, animal adoption opportunities, and local exhibits—making the event a popular community celebration.

An Ocala man, Robert Antonio Tavarez, was arrested for choking his wife after she refused sex on March 27—he is held on a $5,000 bond and is set to appear in court on April 29 at 9 a.m.

State data showed that the North Central Florida unemployment rate held steady in February — the figures were released by the state.

Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier ordered officers from the Highway Patrol and FDLE to monitor Tesla dealerships during Tesla Takedown protests after Elon Musk was named head of the Department of Government Efficiency—he warned that any violence would prompt a swift law enforcement response.

Starting Monday, March 31, the U.S. Navy will hold bombing exercises at Pinecastle Range Complex in Ocala National Forest with tests scheduled from 10:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Monday and Tuesday, then from 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. from Wednesday to Sunday—local residents are advised to secure items that attract wildlife and motorists should use extra caution near a 500-acre wildfire 15 to 20 miles away.

The Florida Senate is considering SB-420, a bill that would stop cities from using local funds for programs that support diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Community members are debating the bill’s impact on local government decisions.

Indian Motorcycle Demo Event

— 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Indian Motorcycle Ocala — Free demo rides — Experience the all-new 2025 Scout lineup on a thrilling motorcycle adventure.

6th Annual Golf Extravaganza

12-5 p.m. — Ocala Golf Club — Enjoy a day of golfing fun for a good cause with fellow enthusiasts.

Makers Market

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. — Grumbles House Antiques & Garden Shop — Free admission — Discover unique handmade arts and crafts from local artisans while enjoying live music and good food.

Candlelight: The Best of The Beatles

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices may vary — Experience the magic of The Beatles' music performed by an intimate string quartet under candlelight.

Ocala Oddities Market April Edition

6-10 p.m. — Florida Oddities Markets LLC — Free entry — Explore a uniquely quirky market with over 70 vendors showcasing oddities from taxidermy to handmade jewelry.

Spring Strings Concert

4-7 p.m. — Sholom Park — Free entry — Experience the modern bluegrass sounds of Remedy Tree in a serene park setting.

Women Build 2025 Kickoff Party

5-8 p.m. — OHC Community Center — Free entry — Celebrate the kick-off of a meaningful local initiative supporting women in building homes.

Brandon Dull Live Performance

3-5 p.m. — Tierra Del Sol Bar & Grill — Free entry — Enjoy timeless tunes from a talented singing guitarist based in Ocala, Florida.

Ocala Home & Garden Show

12 PM – 5 PM — World Equestrian Center — Free entry — Explore gardening innovations and home improvement ideas at this vibrant expo.

Kids Day Celebration

4-6 PM — Graffiti Seafood & More — Free activities — Celebrate Kids Day with games, balloon art, and fun activities for the whole family.