Good morning, Ocala.

Today, over 100 locals gathered in Ocala to support efforts to end Alzheimer’s disease and raise awareness for those affected.

The Ocala Home and Garden Show—now in its fifth year—is drawing hundreds of vendors and thousands of visitors with exhibits on kitchens, pools, and interior design; the event features cooking demonstrations and will continue tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A Bell High School student was selected as a Presidential Scholar when 161 students were named, including one from North Central Florida — recognizing exceptional academic achievement.

Old Town Elementary was recognized as a School of Excellence by state education leaders on Sep.

27—marking the honor announced last night.

A free trolley service has run in downtown Ocala for ten days and offers a 30‐minute loop connecting public parking, shops, and landmarks from Wednesday through Saturday.

The service, approved by city council on September 3 and featuring live online tracking on SunTran’s website, will be piloted until June 30 — with a custom O-Line Trolley planned for next year.

The 200-acre Thoroughbred horse farm in north Marion was sold on September 9 for $5.3 million to Dream With Me Florida, LLC.

The buyer said the farm that trained champions like American Pharoah will be kept for racing—without plans for redevelopment.

2025 Grand National Show

6 AM - 11 AM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Check for pricing — Experience the thrill of equestrian excellence at the Grand National Show.

Grand Prix Dining Experience

6:30-9 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Table pricing from $500 — Indulge in a three-course meal while enjoying top-level equestrian sport under the lights.

4th Annual Grays Halloween Festival

5-10 p.m. — Ocala Downtown Market — Free entry — Celebrate the Halloween season with fun festivities at this community festival.

Back to the 80's: Dance Fitness Party

1-5 p.m. — Paddock Mall — Donation-based entry — Get your groove on while raising awareness and funds for breast cancer prevention.

Hands-on Volunteer Training for October Ride-a-Test

8:00 AM – 11:59 PM — Florida Horse Park — Free entry — Learn valuable skills while supporting an equestrian event through volunteer opportunities.

Tropical Steel Music Event

6:00–9:30 p.m. — Yellow Pony at World Equestrian Center — Check event page for costs — Enjoy dinner and drinks while grooving to the versatile sounds of Tropical Steel.

Ocala Classic Card Show

10 a.m.-5 p.m. — Hilton Ocala — $5 admission, kids 10 & under free — Discover rare sports cards and collectibles while enjoying family-friendly activities and raffles.