Daily
Ocala
Thursday, December 4th, 2025
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 4th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Ocala business leader Lanas Clark Yandle, known for his work improving North Magnolia Avenue, died Nov. 24 at 85. Funeral services will begin with visitation at 9 a.m. Dec. 6 at First Baptist Church (2801 SE Maricamp Road) followed by a service at 10 a.m. Ocala Gazette
- ➤ Residents in Ocala share mixed views on the new planters and medians along State Road 200. Some say the features help limit risky left turns while others argue the design worsens congestion (calling for better police enforcement). Ocala-News
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Ilene’s Gator Store—formerly Silverman’s—celebrated 90 years in business on Wednesday, Dec. 3, as its owners invited locals to join the festivities at the longtime shop. WCJB
- ➤ Ocala restaurateur Jerry Roberts closed the Original Gator’s Dockside branch in Gainesville at 3842 Newberry Road on Dec. 1 — the restaurant did not provide further details regarding the decision. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Veteran actor Paul Pierce brings over 200 past performances to the wild holiday comedy Tuna Christmas with Scott Fitzgerald at the Civic Theatre, running from Dec. 3 to Dec. 14. The production features rapid costume changes and eccentric characters to deliver festive laughs in Ocala. Ocala Gazette
- ➤ Fort King National Historic Landmark hosts a festival celebrating 1800s life with re-enactments, crafts, games and vendors on Sat, Dec.6 and Sun, Dec.7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 3925 E Fort King Street, and free admission plus shuttle parking is available. Ocala-News
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ State leaders set aside $112 million for clean water projects, with a large share designated for cities in North Central Florida. The funding will support water quality improvements and help update local infrastructure. WCJB
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Florida lawmakers are considering Senate Bill 246 to create a UFC specialty license plate that will channel funds to the UFC Foundation if it reaches 3,000 pre-orders — the proposal passed the Transportation Committee and now awaits further review. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ City Manager Pete Lee said improvements at the only city-owned course (3130 E Silver Springs Boulevard) have boosted playing conditions over the past year thanks to diligent city staff. He added that work on bunkers will continue. Ocala-News
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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