Good morning, Ocala.

Cars and Caffeine is held today at Ellianos Coffee at 11572 N Williams St. in Dunnellon from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.—this free event welcomes all makes and models, though no excessive revving, loud music, or burnouts are allowed.

Volunteers cleaned up communities across North Central Florida yesterday to keep parks and streets in good shape, uniting locals in a collective effort to improve neighborhood spaces.

A car fire sparked a wildfire in Ocala National Forest Saturday afternoon as fire officials worked to contain the blaze.

Amazon announced on Friday, Apr.

17 that it will permanently close its Homestead facility—a decision coming a few months after the company acquired a 1-million sqft warehouse in Ocala—with 616 employees laid off, shutdown beginning on July 2 and separations effective Sept. 30.

Florida Lotto's jackpot reached $18 million on Saturday, April 25 after 22 rollovers following Earth Day, with drawings held statewide at 11:15 p.m. ET.

No winner was reported, and the next drawing is scheduled for Wednesday, April 29.

Buchholz won its ninth straight game with a 12-2 win over Mandarin and advanced to the 6A regional semifinals - Vanguard also moved ahead after a 5-2 victory over Hardee.

Ocala native Jake Slaughter was selected in the NFL Draft's second round by the Los Angeles Chargers and is set to compete for the starting left guard spot + team officials praised his leadership and versatility.

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.

Grand Prix May Dressage Dining Experience

6:30-9:30 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $205 per person — Dine on exquisite buffet meals while world-class equestrians captivate with their grand prix freestyle performances.

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Concert

7:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticket information TBA — Celebrate the 33rd anniversary of this iconic swing band with a night of vibrant music and high-energy performance.