Good morning, Ocala.

Community Stages nonprofit and the Chelsea Art Center will host free open house events in Ocala from Aug.

24 to 29—giving visitors a chance to explore the theater group's third season and the center's expanding community programming.

City officials will break ground on Thursday, August 28th at 9:15 a.m. at Ocala Skate Park (517 NE 9th Street) on a 16,000-square-foot expansion that will add new bowls, a snake run, and a paved walking path.

Gainesville police arrested three Ocala men—Gabriel Frazier, Jr., Jarrett Jones, and Kaniel Edwards—for their alleged role in a shooting at a local recreation center on April 20 that claimed the life of 20-year-old Ontaria Baisden.

A 61-year-old Ocala man was arrested on Aug.

17 for allegedly using his security system to time his sprinklers so they soaked his disabled neighbors when a school bus arrived—he had called authorities more than 70 times to complain about the bus being on his property.

City officials approved $5,619,644 in incentives for a redevelopment project that will boost Ocala’s business and community life—officials say the plan will bring new energy to the area.

Ocala teen Nacssa Garemore will compete on August 25 in the final round of American Ninja Warrior for a $250,000 grand prize after advancing in a head-to-head tournament—he was reseeded as a 9 and will face eight-seeded David Bergstrom-Wright in a direct race.

First Time Home Buyer Workshop

5-9 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — Free entry — Get expert advice and resources to turn your homeownership dreams into reality.

The Jersey Tenors Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — Circle Square Cultural Center — Tickets $32-35 — Experience an explosive blend of opera and rock with iconic Jersey music.

Titans of Rock

7:30-9 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience the best anthems of Journey and Bon Jovi live in one electrifying performance.

Mermaids vs. Pirates Roller Derby Scrimmage

1:30-4 p.m. — Ocala Downtown Market — $10 admission, kids under 12 free — Enjoy a thrilling roller derby scrimmage featuring an exciting showdown between mermaids and pirates.

FL-Labor Day Barrel Blast

August 28th – September 1st — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — $40,000 Added — Experience thrilling barrel racing competitions with significant prize money.

Ocala Shrine Rodeo

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion SELP — $25 at the gate — Experience traditional rodeo fun featuring bronc riding, barrel racing, and more at the 40th Annual event.

MCA Annual Auction & Closing Party

5-7 p.m. — Marion Cultural Alliance at Brick City Center for the Arts — Supports local arts — Experience a festive evening with art and community spirit while bidding on unique auction items.

2025 Ocala Comic Con Weekend Pass

8:00 PM – 10:29 AM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Kids 10 and under are FREE — Experience Florida's largest comic convention packed with comic books, video games, and cosplay.