Daily
Ocala
Friday, May 29th, 2026
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 29th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Transitional housing at Ritz Veterans Village may close by Sept. 30 if alternate funding is not secured after a $5 million grant application was missed; city officials and county commissioners are working with a VA liaison (Volunteers of America) to ensure veterans remain housed. WCJB
- ➤ Ocala will host a Veterans Summit to help military veterans transition to civilian life. The event will feature resource experts and personal stories to guide participants as they plan their next steps. WCJB
ECONOMY NEWS
- ➤ Ocala has been ranked as the second most popular moving destination in the nation for the third consecutive year, based on PODS’ report from move data between January 2025 and March 2026, which cites affordability & natural attractions as key factors. Ocala-News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Florida is now offering year-round enrollment for its Prepaid College Plan starting today, which lets parents secure current tuition rates and gives newborns a $529 head start in college savings — it offers tax-advantaged options for covering in-state or out-of-state tuition. Ocala StarBanner
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ A forecast from WeatherTiger shows a quieter hurricane season with 1 to 3 major hurricanes and a 30% chance for a landfall while Florida may face a higher risk; Dr. Ryan Truchelut said official El+Nino conditions will start in June and updates will follow. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ A nearly 1,000-acre wildfire sparked by lightning on May 22 continues to burn in Ocala National Forest near Alexander Springs in Lake County as crews use ground and aerial tactics. Officials report the fire is 10% contained and advise motorists to avoid Forest Road 18 and the Bluff Landing Campground. Ocala-News
- ➤ Florida law prohibits feeding wildlife such as bears, alligators, and crocodiles and imposes penalties of up to $5,000 + jail time. Residents in Ocala should follow these rules to protect local animals and maintain public safety. Ocala StarBanner
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ HCA Florida Healthcare will open a new emergency facility in Ocala next spring due to rapid county growth; the $15 million center (8231 SW State Road 200) will hire 45 full-time professionals to deliver full emergency care. WCJB
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Hear Us Roar III Fundraiser
7 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre — VIP tickets $50 — A vibrant fundraiser supporting Arts in Health and The Arc Marion in Ocala.
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Ocala Toddler Time Multi-Sport Program
9:00-11:00 a.m. — McCall Ballfield — $90 — Engage toddlers in a fun, multi-sport program designed for early development.
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Ocala Toddler Soccer Summer Camp
9 a.m. - 10:50 a.m. — McCall Ballfield — $135 — Fun-filled toddler soccer camp featuring bubbles, ice cream, and exciting activities.
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Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy: Chapter Three
6-7:30 p.m. — Marion Theatre — $55 per person — Experience an immersive theatrical journey through Poe's macabre tales with original music by Danny Elfman and themed cocktails.
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Father's Day Celebration with Live Orchestra
8:00 p.m. — Fonda Dulce Jesus Mio Ocala — Ticketed event — Celebrate Father's Day with live Latin music from The Koko Band and DJ Jota.
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WEC Premier FC Summer Soccer Camps for Ages 9-14
9 a.m.-2 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Cost varies — Engage in immersive soccer training to enhance skills and tactical awareness in a supportive environment.
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Elvis The Summer Festival 2026
June 25-27 — Circle Square Cultural Center — $15-$400 — Celebrate Elvis through the greatest hits and tribute performances by top artists.
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South Florida Soul Rodeo Kick-Off Field Party
5-10 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion Auditorium — Family-friendly event — Experience thrilling rodeo action and soulful music in the heart of Ocala.
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Ravenfest 2026
5-9 p.m. — Mutiny Bar Ocala — Donation-based entry — Celebrate mental health awareness and enjoy live music for a good cause.
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
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