Daily
Ocala
Thursday, December 18th, 2025
Good morning, Ocala. Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 18th of December.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ A lifelong Ocala resident (Patricia Herrmann) said that rapid growth from newcomers has left some areas with fewer improvements as local infrastructure struggles to keep pace. She urged transplants to be kind and work together toward a better community. Ocala-News
- ➤ City officials awarded first responders (Fire Rescue, Police, Highway Patrol) at a City Council meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 16 for quickly saving an elderly life after a collapse outside Tony’s Sushi on Oct. 28. The awards, presented on behalf of HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, recognized their swift action. Ocala-News
- ➤ On Sunday, Dec. 14, Skate Mania hosted the Santas vs. Elves roller derby scrimmage in Ocala, where Florida teams competed in a festive double-header to support Veterans Helping Veterans USA & address local food insecurity. Ocala Gazette
BUSINESS NEWS
- ➤ Aeropostale offered a $25 bonus card with $100+ gift card purchases during its holiday sale on Dec. 17 in Ocala plus shoppers enjoyed up to 70% off select clothing and BOGO deals on jeans and graphic tees. Ocala StarBanner
- ➤ Marion County officials approved a special use permit that lets Wise’s Enterprises open The Inn Spot, a deli and tavern serving fresh meats, cheeses, sandwiches and more at the historic Oklawaha Inn located at 13490 E Highway 25 in Ocklawaha + the permit is valid for three years with potential extensions. Ocala-News
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Ocala City Council approved a request by the Ocala Sunset Rotary Club to install a marker at the northwest corner of State Road 40 and Osceola Road, commemorating the 1961 meeting that inspired a young Tom Petty. Ocala-News
- ➤ A local TV segment on Horse Capital TV will showcase a family's farm tours (featuring the Grandview Clydesdales) that offer locals a firsthand look at horse life and what it takes to be a cowboy or cowgirl; the segment airs this week. WCJB
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Six Marion County Public Schools teachers recently received Golden Apples during surprise classroom visits, with five contending for 2026 Teacher of the Year and Hillcrest School's Stephanie Stephens named Rookie Teacher (her first recognition) by the Public Education Foundation. Ocala Gazette
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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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Young Artist Competition - Honors Recital
3-5 p.m. — Reilly Arts Center — Complimentary tickets for subscribers — Experience the inspiring performances of young musicians competing for soloist opportunities with the Ocala Symphony.
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Cherokee Jazz and Rock Night
6-9 p.m. — The Pavilion at Green Gaits — Free entry — Enjoy smooth saxophone melodies and keyboard classics in a lively jazz and rock performance.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
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Reveal the authorAbout Daily Ocala
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