Good morning, Ocala.

The newly expanded Freedom Public Library in southwest Ocala opened on April 13 at 10:30 a.m. as hundreds joined the ribbon cutting, live band performance, and a pledge recitation by a second-grader (Freya Sloan), marking the facility's increase from 8,100 to about 32,000 sqft.

The 18th annual Farmland Preservation Festival took place on April 11 at Stirrups 'n Strides Therapeutic Riding Center between Orange Lake and Citra, sponsored by Save Our Rural Areas, and celebrated Marion County's farming heritage — with vendors, live music and family activities. Organizer Jerome Feaster thanked staff for a successful event.

The Marion Oaks Community Center splash pad has reopened for the season and is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 294 Marion Oaks Lane (weather permitting), joining other Ocala splash pads that reopened last month for free water fun during warmer months.

A mobile home fire on East Glen Eagles Road displaced one veteran on April 14 though officials confirmed no injuries and an investigation is underway.

Winn-Dixie and Amazon have expanded same-day grocery delivery to most Florida metro areas today.

Customers can shop over 15,000 items on Amazon with a two-hour window, and orders over $25 qualify for free delivery for a limited period.

The inaugural Art Park Literary & Poetry Festival took place Saturday, Apr.

11 at Tuscawilla Art Park near downtown Ocala. Organized by the city and public library system, the event featured live music, community poetry, interactive booths and free copies of a local literary book.

Intense wildfires fueled by drought and La Nina have reduced air quality across Florida and may affect Ocala today.

Local officials advise at-risk residents to limit outdoor activities until smoke clears—further updates are expected.

Forecasters predict a below normal hurricane season, but officials warn residents to prepare now by building hurricane kits with supplies that are permanently tax-free (no sales tax break is planned), as the season spans June 1 to Nov.

30.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital unveiled plans for a $200 million expansion that will add 470,423 sqft and a new patient tower with 62 private care rooms.

Construction will begin later this year to boost surgical services, create over 70 healthcare jobs, and include enhancements like a new ICU and parking garage.

New data from Realtor.com revealed that in January the median home price in Marion County dropped to $272,950 from $285,000 in December — a 4.2% decline, with single-family home and condo sales falling 20.7% compared to last January.

Ocala’s Gwenda Ward, 77, ranked number one globally in her age group this year and in 2025 after earning several ITF and USTA medals.

She played at Fort King Municipal Tennis Center on Thursday (April 9) and now plans to join upcoming international tournaments.

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.

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.

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.

Extravaganza 2026

9 AM – 10 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Experience three days of premier paso fino horse competition at this prestigious event.

One time never before seeing Home

Don’t miss your chance to see this perfect 3/2/2 plan offered at $269,500. Hurry, It will not last!

Arnold Irchai and Dale Fedele Concert

3-4 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — $4 – $185 — Experience intimate chamber music with virtuosic musicians from the Ocala Symphony in a unique performance setting.

Mother's Day Brunch Celebration

11 AM - 2 PM — Miss Eloise’s Grand Ballroom — $110 per adult, $39 per child ages 6-12 — Enjoy an elegant buffet with live music for a memorable Mother's Day.

Grand Prix May Dressage Dining Experience

8-11 a.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $145 per person — Indulge in a buffet brunch while world-class dressage competitors showcase their skills in a stunning outdoor arena.

Grand Prix May Dressage Dining Experience

8-11 a.m. — The Equestrian Hotel Terrace — $145 per person — Delight in brunch while world-class dressage athletes compete in the Grand Outdoor Arena.