Good morning, Ocala.

North Central Florida businesses have begun donation drives to support Toys for Tots — all funds will go directly to providing gifts for families in need.

The drives will help the organization reach more local families — ensuring that each contribution makes a difference.

Liquor Lane is now open at 2060 SW County Road 484 in Ocala—this large drive-thru shop offers a full range of beer, wine, and other liquors along with a dedicated tobacco section in its 4,500-square-foot space, which was built after revised plans were submitted following the original set in September 2023.

Ocala and Marion County offer a busy weekend of cultural events starting with the First Friday Art Walk in downtown Ocala on November 7 and continuing with art exhibits, live music, and festivals including a holiday bazaar and local theatre productions running through mid-November—weather conditions could lead to changes. Residents can enjoy family-friendly activities and community gatherings as organizers update details by phone if needed.

Equine enthusiasts from around the globe attended the International Horse Show in Ocala—with the event dubbed Disneyland for horse lovers—where Kids Central was named the nonprofit recipient.

Top competitors and youth riders in the Academy division showcased emerging talent.

The Ocala Police Department hosted a community meet-and-greet where residents toured its headquarters and met officers (getting a look at specialized units) as part of the ongoing accreditation assessment (which evaluates the department’s practices).

EU Ambassador Jovita Neliupšienė and diplomats from 10 countries visited the Capitol on Wednesday to meet with Florida leaders and discuss trade partnerships—her visit marked the first time European diplomats came to Florida and comes as the state exported nearly $9 billion in goods to Europe.

A Marion County resident, Lisa Scott, said her property taxes have risen so that they are now $700 higher than in Ocala and an extra $500 increase forces her to look for work after retirement—she questions the county's decision on the steep tax hike.

November USEA Horse Trials

November 8-9 — Majestic Oaks Ocala — Entry fees apply — Witness thrilling equestrian competition across three phases at this prestigious horse trials event.

2025 Ocali Country Days Festival

9 a.m. – 4 p.m. — Silver River Museum & Environmental Education Center — $10 per person, children 5 and under FREE — Experience Florida’s history with live music, crafts, and delicious food.

2025 Ocala November Show Series II: National Hunter/Level 6 Jumper

12:00 AM - 11:59 PM — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Enjoy two weeks of exciting National Hunter and Level 6 Jumper competitions.

HSITP 2025 Championship Show

1 PM - 10 PM — Covered Arena at The Grand Oaks Resort — Entry fees apply — Compete for year-end awards in a thrilling equestrian championship event.

Paso Fino Fall Festival

8 AM – 11 PM — Florida Horse Park — Admission details not provided — Experience an exciting day of Paso Fino horse shows with food, music, and family fun.

Brown's Christmas Market 2025

10 AM – 4 PM — Brown & Brown Farms and Country Store — Free park and shop — Enjoy a festive market filled with unique gifts, crafts, and fun activities for kids.

A Tuna Christmas Live Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket information available — Experience the festive comedy that brings laughter to the holiday season.

Symphony Under the Lights

7:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Free entry — Enjoy a joyful outdoor concert performed by the Ocala Symphony and Youth Symphony under festive lights.