Good morning, Ocala.

Marion County unveiled its Liberty Horse statue early Thursday, July 2, and officials described it as a stunning new symbol of community.

Marion County Veterans Memorial Park in Ocala will host a Fourth of July celebration Saturday with a Kingdom of the Sun performance and fireworks — the park honors veterans and plans a QR program for visitors to learn about its monuments.

This weekend, celebrations across Central Florida include Patriotic Skies at Tuscawilla Park in Ocala, where live performances, food trucks, and games lead up to a fireworks and drone show starting at 9:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 4.

Residents in southwest Ocala express mixed opinions on the planned Target store; some welcome the retail expansion (saying it will boost local options) while others worry about growing traffic and overcrowding.

Tractor Supply will open its new store in Silver Springs Shores on Saturday, July 4 at 115 Bahia Ave Place between Aldi and Caliber Car Wash, and it will operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. as plans for a sixth local store in northwest Ocala move forward through county review.

New Florida Department of Education data shows that 42 of the 53 Marion County schools scored below the state median, resulting in an overall C grade; district officials (citing higher state thresholds) said the mark did not reflect a drop in performance.

A strengthening El Niño and cooler Atlantic waters have lowered hurricane risks, cutting Florida’s chance of a major storm from earlier forecasts.

Experts caution that even a slow season can deliver a strong storm, so local residents should stay prepared.

During Fourth of July weekend, the Milky Way will grace Florida’s dark skies alongside fireworks, inviting locals to a unique natural display throughout July.

Stargazers should visit dark-sky spots - optimal viewing is expected after the new moon on July 14.

A 6.03-acre waterfront estate on Lake Weir sold for $1.6 million on June 12 in Weirsdale — the sale included a main home, a guest house and two garages — highlighting local real estate activity.

The Lodge, a downtown landmark (built around 1886), is temporarily closed after city officials posted an unsafe structure notice because a key support beam snapped; owner Johnny Sanchez said his team is repairing it and plans to reopen it soon.

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.