Good morning, Ocala.

Florida's Margaritaville specialty plate won the 2025 Best Plate Award from the Automobile License Plate Collectors Association, marking the first win for the state + residents can order the plate at tax collector offices with delivery expected in 10 to 12 weeks while proceeds support Singing for Change to aid hurricane victims.

Stars Among Us held its first dinner dance on May 29 at the Salvation Army Hall on Northeast 14th Street, where about 60 community members enjoyed dancing tunes like the Cupid Shuffle and Electric Slide to celebrate inclusion and social opportunity.

Ocala Breeders’ Sales Company announced its upcoming three-day auction of over 900 horses from June 16 to 18 at its SW 60th Ave facility, following record-breaking sales in March + April; an under-tack show will run from June 9 to 13 starting at 7:30 a.m.

AIHOM, a nonprofit connecting art and healing — which runs free art workshops at Arc of Marion — is hosting its third annual fundraiser Hear Us Roar III on June 12 at Ocala Civic Theatre.

The event will feature a sing-along performance with Arc clients and local musicians and offer artwork sales to benefit both groups.

Marion Theatre launches its Summer Kids Film Series today with showings of Cars and additional films until July 24 — families can enjoy $5 tickets with snack packs for kids and bring gently used books to support the Early Learning Coalition.

Marion Cultural Alliance will open the exhibit 'Cats & Dogs: A Portrait of Devotion' on June 5 with a free reception (5-7 p.m.) at Brick City Center for the Arts at 23 SW Broadway St., where regional artists display work celebrating pet companionship and part of sales benefit local rescue.

Florida lawmakers approved a tax package that offers a holiday on outdoor supplies from Sept.

1 to Dec. 31 and revises the back to school holiday to run from July 20 to Aug. 20 — if signed by the governor. The measure lifts taxes on tennis tickets and is expected to reduce revenue.

State inspectors at the Department of Business and Professional Regulation found several local restaurants with high priority food safety violations during inspections conducted between May 25 and May 31.

Braised Onion and China King had issues with food storage and temperature control (follow-up reviews were required), officials said.

Site plans for a 128,880 sqft Target on SW State Road 200 near the On Top of the World retirement community were submitted Monday for review by county agencies, and developer Cornerstone Ocala Properties, LLC now awaits further approvals before breaking ground.

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.