Good morning, Ocala.

An Ocala family traveled to Washington this weekend to honor their father, a Vietnam War veteran, at a memorial wall ceremony.

The event celebrated his legacy and service to the nation.

Marion County Fire Rescue officials are planning a celebration of life for a firefighter who died in an off-duty crash, with family and colleagues expected to join the tribute.

Sunstop #360 Ocala is a new gas station & convenience store planned for the NE 25th & NE 35th intersection in northeast Ocala, featuring a one-story store and fuel canopy on a 2.14-acre site near Pearl Britain Plaza while county review is underway.

Gov. Ron DeSantis endorsed the planned opening of a new Buc-ee’s near I-75 in Ocala — slated for 2029 — as part of the chain’s broader expansion in Florida.

Ocala held its annual Bull Bash and Country Music Festival on Saturday at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, drawing a crowd for bull riding contests, live acts by Noah Hunton and Gary Allan plus food and family activities; organizers are considering making it a twice-yearly event as interest grows.

Marion County Veterans Services held a VA benefits briefing in Silver Springs Sunday morning to help veterans and their families understand compensation, pension and widows benefits – officials said they visited Belleview earlier and will hold more sessions at local libraries.

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.

WSET Level 1 in Wines

9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $429 — Dive into a day of wine discovery, tasting, and education with expert instructors.

Not Fade Away Concert

7-9 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience an evening of live music from Not Fade Away.