Good morning, Ocala.

Most Florida grocery stores will open on July 4 with regular or limited hours; Publix will run from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. while Aldi, Sprouts, Winn-Dixie, Trader Joe's, and Whole Foods vary their schedules.

Costco will remain closed — shoppers should verify local hours before heading out.

A study by WalletHub compared school quality and degree levels in cities and found that Tallahassee ranked highest in Florida while Ocala ranked lowest in education quality—placing it at No. 139 nationally.

Researchers measured factors such as high school graduation rates and the local quality of education to determine these results.

Circle Fore LLC, owned by Mac Fore and Noelle Smith, seeks to rezone its 18.24-acre property at the southwest corner of SW 48th Avenue and SW 49th Place from multifamily to commercial use and to add a subdivision plan; the proposal will be discussed today at 4 p.m. during the Ocala City Council meeting with city staff recommending approval.

New Bethel Community Church Back To School Bash & Community Picnic

2-6 p.m. — Del Webb Spruce Creek Golf & Country Club — Free entry — Enjoy food, music, and a waterslide at this fun community event with free backpacks while supplies last.

Phil Collins Tribute Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — $28 to $57, VIP Box $270 — Experience the magic of Phil Collins through the powerful voice of Rick Snider.

Ocala Christmas in July Festival

10 AM – 3 PM — World Equestrian Center — $5 — Experience a winter wonderland of holiday shopping with handcrafted gifts and a special appearance from Santa.

USA Swimming Futures Championship - Ocala

All day — Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training Center — Entry deadline July 22nd — A showcase of swimming talent with top teams and athletes competing across various events.

Summer Job Fair 2025

5-7 p.m. — Howard Academy Community Center — Free entry — Explore job opportunities across various industries at this local job fair.

Reading with the Rangers & Friends

10:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Ocala Citizens' Circle — Bring your own snacks and blankets — Enjoy a relaxing day of reading with friends in the park.

Candlelight Tribute to Coldplay & Imagine Dragons

4:00–4:59 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Tickets required — Experience the magic of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in a candlelit setting performed by the Listeso String Quartet.

Real Estate Power Team Workshop

11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. — Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership — Lunch provided — Learn to build a strong real estate team in North Central Florida.