Good morning, Ocala.

A large dining concept and brewery is under construction at 343 NE 1st Avenue in Midtown District and is set to open this spring.

Midtown Eateries, LLC, led by Carlos Sanchez and Francis Wendell Landry, plans six dining areas, a nightclub and event venue in the converted WMOP radio building.

Ocala’s First Friday Art Walk drew a lively crowd on Friday when the returning Sunset Songs Series filled downtown with live music – adding festive holiday cheer to the community.

Navidad Latin Fest kicks off today at 11 a.m. at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion (2232 NE Jacksonville Road) featuring Hispanic music, food trucks, artisans and family activities; local talents from Nieves Music Studio and Devotions Dance Company will entertain as Santa Claus hands out toys.

Downtown Ocala hosted its First Friday Art Walk on Friday, Dec.

5 — featuring Citizens Circle's return of the Sunset Songs Series with over 40 artist displays, free art activities for families and live music by a Louisiana band.

CSX will begin removing thousands of creosote-soaked rail ties stored near homes and the Rainbow River in Dunnellon within one week after community leaders pressured the company to act.

Officials plan to test soil and groundwater once the removal is complete to return the site to its natural state.

Florida Department of Health officials issued a 60-day rabies alert after a rabid coyote was captured near Southwest 49th Ave Road and 103rd Street Road on Wednesday in Marion County.

Residents are advised to seek treatment if exposed.

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County issued a rabies alert (60-day measure) after a coyote tested positive for rabies off SW 49th Ave Rd and SW 103rd St Rd on Dec.

3; residents are urged to secure pets and avoid contact with wild animals.

Dunkin' honored Dunnellon H.S. football team kicker Jayliana Lopez-Neumann on Dec.

5 with on-campus recognition and provided her four tickets to the Tampa Bay Bucs game on Dec. 7.

Dunnellon coach JB Bynum led his football team to clinch the Class 1A-3A FIT State title on Thursday afternoon after a 13+7 win over North Miami Beach, capping a four-game winning streak in his first head coaching season at the school.

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.