Good morning, Ocala.

The Florida Highway Patrol is monitoring a two-acre wildfire near I-75 in Alachua County — reducing visibility and causing accident-related congestion on a 20-mile stretch in Marion County.

Mercury is joining Venus and Jupiter in a planet parade that will brighten Florida’s western sky after sunset - skywatchers should find a clear view from today until Monday, June 15.

Ocala pitmaster Rashad Jones returns as a judge on Food Network's BBQ Brawl airing Mondays at 9 p.m. He brings his award-winning background from wins in 2022 and 2023 to join Adrienne Cheatham and Carson Kressley at Star Hill Ranch, marking a proud moment for the local barbecue community.

New Worlds Reading initiative offers free books for children and a deadline is approaching soon for sign-ups; families in Ocala should check the details to secure this opportunity.

A rare 6.1 earthquake shook Florida Monday near western Cuba and was felt statewide, and a tropical disturbance in the Gulf is expected to bring needed rain to our region by the end of the weekend—raising hopes to ease the ongoing drought.

County officials will vote on a proposal to convert a former VFW post in Reddick into an eco-friendly cremation facility for pets + small livestock using water-based aquamation on Wednesday, June 17.

The 1.55-acre site at 19241 N US Hwy 441 must comply with strict environmental guidelines.

A community paramedicine program in Marion County is expanding to help residents access medical care and support services.

Since 2021, the initiative has assisted over 2,000 people through chronic illness management, HUG (a program for frequent emergency users), and opioid recovery services and plans to extend partnerships as the county grows.

The viral dot cake is set to debut in Publix bakeries on June 16 as a 5-inch single-serving cake with a crunchy sprinkle shell and soft interior.

The product is expected to be priced below New York's ($11) version, and stores are preparing for a rush.

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.

Fourth in the Park

10 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Tuscawilla Park — Free entry — Celebrate July 4 with family-friendly activities including food trucks, live music, and splash pad fun.

Jake Hoot Live Concert

7:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience the heartfelt storytelling of country music star Jake Hoot, winner of The Voice.