Good morning, Ocala.

On May 30, community members gathered at Brick City Center for the Arts to paint Celebration, a Horse Fever statue by local artist Maggie Weakley, for the project’s 25th anniversary.

More paint days are scheduled on Wednesdays in June and July (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) to complete this interactive public art piece.

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season began June 1 and will run through Nov.

30, but forecasters predict a below-normal run while urging residents to stay prepared. Florida faces its highest chance of a named storm passing within 50 miles — residents should check their evacuation zones and review their hurricane kits.

Ocala announced that curbside recycling will end July 6 in favor of a drop-off-only program plus residents may recycle at locations including Mary Sue Rich Community Center, Croskey Center, and others.

Existing carts will automatically convert unless residents request removal.

The City of Ocala Public Works Traffic Division is accepting applications for its annual street banner lottery from eligible nonprofits until August 1 for banner reservations in 2027.

Applications are available at 1805 NE 30th Ave. Building 300, open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Residents, business owners and school staff oppose a special use permit from Marion County Planning and Zoning Commission that would let Gaston Tree Debris Recycling process grocery food waste near Ocala Speedway— they hired attorney Alexandra Scales to address concerns over odors and water quality.

Ocala City Council will review a proposal from Ocala 52 Partners to annex and rezone an 82-acre former mining site at 5575 SW 52nd today at 4 p.m. to enable future development of up to 590 dwelling units, including multi+single-family homes with preserved water bodies as neighborhood amenities.

Data released by the Ocala/Marion County Association of Realtors showed that closed home sales in April increased by 8.8% from 692 sales while pending activity grew and pricing stayed steady in the area.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ravenfest 2026

5-9 p.m. — Mutiny Bar Ocala — Donation-based entry — Celebrate mental health awareness and enjoy live music for a good cause.