Good morning, Ocala.

Ocala Main Street held its grand opening of the Heart of the Park American Independence Exhibit & Education Center at Tuscawilla Park on Sunday, June 28, featuring exhibits on America’s 250th anniversary, local history, and notable figures; more community events will run through early July.

Disabled veterans may qualify for free TSA PreCheck if they are enrolled in VA health care & have a qualifying service-connected disability requiring the use of a VA-issued wheelchair or prosthetic limb.

Eligible vets can download a fee waiver letter from the VA website to apply.

Europe recorded record heat deaths while Florida homes built after air conditioning became standard keep residents safer.

Doctors advise staying indoors, hydrating, and using fans as a heat dome is forecast for the Fourth of July weekend (a reminder to be cautious).

The Ocala/Marion County Association of Realtors reported strong buyer activity in May as 778 single-family home sales closed in the area—an 8.4% increase from 718—showing a robust local housing market despite modest price adjustments.

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.