Good morning, Ocala.

At the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park on June 14, local youth received framed certificates for essays on 'What the American Flag Means to Me' during the annual Flag Day ceremony, which featured a flag retirement attended by over 85 people, including local veterans & representatives.

Aldi is launching free blind boxes from Monday, June 22 to Thursday, June 25, with a new themed box released daily at noon — customers must claim online while supplies last as the chain expands locally.

A new Circle K gas station is planned for 13210 S U.S. Highway 301 in Belleview with a proposed 6,335 sqft building, 12 fueling stations and 50 parking spaces (on a 1.06-acre site under review since October) and will join nearby facilities when it opens next year.

Florida residents near Ocala felt mild tremors that were aftershocks from a 6.1 quake off Cuba on June 8; USGS & Naples Daily News data show a 4.9 quake on June 15 produced similar sensations with no damage reported.

The St. Johns River Water Management District affirmed its water use declaration as mandatory restrictions remain due to ongoing drought conditions in Marion — officials say three months of adequate rainfall are needed to lift the extreme drought.

Florida law does not set a minimum age for leaving kids home alone — state agencies advise waiting until age 12 and starting with short trial periods as summer child care costs rise, so Ocala parents may consider these steps for safe independence.

A new modular home dealership proposal along U.S. Hwy 441 in Marion County has been submitted as the developer seeks an early waiver for initial site work.

The waiver request will be reviewed by the county committee — once the engineering team addresses the remaining corrections.

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.

Live Music with Jeff Jarrett at The Riding Academy Pool

12-4 p.m. — The Riding Academy Hotel Pool — Free entry — Experience award-winning live music with an eclectic mix from Jeff Jarrett by the poolside.

Ocala Speed Dating for Singles Ages 45-62

4-6 p.m. — Midtown Station — Ticket required — Meet potential matches through a fun and efficient speed dating experience.