Good morning, Ocala.

Hundreds gathered Friday, June 26 at First Baptist Church of Ocala to honor Evan Lewis, a 21-year-old firefighter/EMT whose promising career ended on June 18 in a motorcycle crash (his organs were donated to save lives).

Salvation Army Corps-Ocala hosted a prom for senior citizens on June 25 at its administration building at 2901 NE 14th St. in Ocala, and over 100 seniors from local HUD-supported communities enjoyed dancing, donated food, and formal attire provided by local sponsors.

New eateries opened across Ocala and Marion County in early 2026, and more are set to debut soon.

Locals can look forward to a growing selection of dining options as the restaurant scene expands.

Christopher Trail, a Marion County resident, claimed a $10 million Powerball Double Play prize on March 18 after buying his winning ticket at a Circle K at 10030 County Road 44 in Leesburg — his identity was revealed after the expiration of anonymity rules.

A heat wave is pushing temperatures to the 90s (heat indexes up to 108) as the Fourth of July approaches, and residents are advised to raise thermostat settings, use appliances during off-peak hours, and check home seals to lower energy bills.

These tips aim to keep costs down when the weather stays sweltering.

On June 25, children gathered at Midtown Station (235 NE Watula Ave) for the Reading with Horses summer literacy program by Gentle Carousel Miniature Therapy Horses, an award-winning nonprofit celebrating 29 years of service.

The program runs Thursdays at 10 a.m. from June 4 through July 9 & features therapy horses that bring book characters to life.

An Ocala resident asked local officials to use a budget surplus for red-light cameras at busy intersections after noticing frequent traffic violations and experiencing an accident from a red-light runner; his letter calls for increased enforcement to make roads safer.

Ocala’s Nacssa Garemore will return to American Ninja Warrior on Monday, June 29 on NBC.

The local athlete will face a new three-lane race challenge called the Tripleheader — a test building on his strong performance in season 17.

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.

2nd Annual Ocala Christmas in July

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Celebrate Christmas in July with local artisans, crafts, and Summer Santa in a festive atmosphere.

FL Quarter Horse Association Show

All Day — Florida Horse Park — Free entry — Experience a thrilling two-day competition showcasing American Quarter Horses in various classes.