Good morning, Ocala.

An 11-year-old boy from Pennsylvania lost his right hand when a 9-foot alligator attacked him while fishing at Nelson’s Fish Camp (near Umatilla in Marion County) last month; doctors later amputated his hand and his family said the injury limits his sports participation.

Lovisa, a global fashion jewelry retailer established in Sydney, opened its Ocala location at Paddock Mall on June 26 and will host a grand opening ceremony on July 9, offering jewelry, accessories, waterproof collections, and ear-piercing services between Windsor + Hollister amid a series of new retail additions.

New Wolfy's reopens in east Ocala at 2159 East Silver Springs Boulevard after months of renovation; restaurateur Robert Perrault +owner of Scrambles’ Cafe+ launched a refreshed menu blending classic comfort food with local favorites +inviting the community to enjoy its historic charm+.

Walmart and Sam’s Club announced they are lowering prices on thousands of summer items including ground beef and beverages on July 6; local shoppers in Ocala can visit nearby stores to discover these savings.

Artist and educator Lisa Russo invites local artists to showcase their take on freedom in a judged exhibition at Brick City Center for the Arts in September.

Submissions are due by Aug. 16, with an opening reception at 5 p.m. on Sept. 4 and a Sept. 19 workshop (fee applies).

Fort King National Historic Landmark in Ocala will host Pioneer Pals Tykes, a free monthly event with storytime & crafts for children five and under.

The session will be held on Thursday, July 9 from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. at 3925 E Fort King Street, and organizers encourage participants to bring a snack and a seat.

Florida’s 2026 back-to-school sales tax holiday runs from July 20 to Aug.

20, offering tax relief on supplies. Marion County schools (Ocala) will resume on Monday, Aug. 10 while school start dates differ across the state.

On June 29, state inspectors from the Department of Business and Professional Regulation found that El Rinconcito Mexican Grill (1900 S.

Pine Ave) had 23 health violations, including expired licensing and unsafe food handling; management took corrective actions to improve safety.

Horses & riders compete in Ocala's Summer Series at World Equestrian Center this week despite the summer heat.

The event features around 1,300 horses in hunter and jumper events, with over $1 million in prize money on the line and six air-conditioned indoor arenas to keep horses cool.

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.

Summer Series IX: CSI3*/National Hunter/Level 6 Jumper

8 a.m. – 3 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free admission — Experience thrilling hunter/jumper competitions culminating in Saturday night Grand Prix events under the lights.