Here's your local news at a glance for Monday, the 1st of December.
Good morning, Ocala.
🏘️ Community
Marion County officials are accepting donations for the annual Bring the Harvest Home food drive to support local food pantries and services.
Residents may drop off non-perishable items and household goods at various sites until Dec. 4th or at the Ocala Downtown Square on Dec. 5th from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. — the drive benefits organizations including Brother’s Keeper, Interfaith Emergency Services, Veterans Helping Veterans, and the Salvation Army.
🏛️ Government
Residents have asked the Ocala City Council to approve a new marker that will honor the 1962 meeting between Elvis and 10-year-old Tom Petty — several locals shared their personal memories and support for the idea.
The proposed landmark aims to celebrate both musicians' influence on local history.
A local resident from Reddick criticized the recent paving changes on State Road 200 that force drivers to make U-turns—causing long delays at every light.
He said that while the project cost was very high, many other roads in Marion County still need repaving.
🏥 Health
Today, Ocala CEP announced a new workplace wellness initiative in Marion County — the program aims to improve workers’ headspace and is featured in this week’s Weekly Buzz.
🎉 Ocala Events
Submit an event →
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.
Ocala Holiday Market & Food Festival
11 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Southeastern Livestock Pavilion — Free entry — Enjoy a festive day filled with unique crafts, delicious food, and fun activities for the whole family.
A Tuna Christmas
7:30-9:30 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a hilarious holiday celebration with beloved characters returning to spread joy.
9th Annual Florida Thoroughbred Transformation Expo
7 a.m. - 7 p.m. — Florida Horse Park — $25 entry — Discover diverse equine talents at a weekend filled with competitions and prizes for thoroughbreds.
The Nutcracker Ballet
7-8:30 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Family-friendly event — Experience the enchanting story of Clara and the Nutcracker in a magical ballet performance.
Free Movie: Wicked for Good
2-5 p.m. — Epic Theatres of Ocala — Free entry — Experience the magic of Oz in the beloved story of friendship and courage.
The Nutcracker Ballet
2-4 p.m. — Ocala Civic Theatre, Inc. — Ticket prices vary — Experience a magical holiday classic brought to life by the Sheila Ruotolo Dance Company.
Winter Wonderland Holiday Market
12-4 p.m. — Ocala Downtown Market — Free entry — Experience a magical holiday market filled with festive cheer and fun for the whole family.
Christmas Eve Service
6:30-7:30 p.m. — World Equestrian Center - Ocala — Free entry — Celebrate Christmas Eve with music, carols, and a meaningful message.
🏠 Ocala Real Estate
Submit a listing →
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
💼 Ocala Job Board
Submit a job →
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
📣 Ocala Announcements
Submit an announcement →
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Ocala.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.