Ocala Gazette

First Friday Art Walk
2026-10-01 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-05-01 18:00 - 21:00, 2026-04-03 18:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | Ocala Downtown Square, 1 SE Broadway St, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
The First Friday Art Walk takes place the first Friday of each month, October through May from 6 to 9 p.m. First Friday Art Walk is a free event located within Ocala’s historic downtown. Event festivities include over 30 artist displays, monthly live entertainment, free family art activities provided by local arts organizations and extended shopping hours. The public is invited to enjoy an evening of art, live performances, and downtown shops and restaurants.

Beach Boys Tribute: Surf's Up
2026-08-08 17:00 - 20:00, 2026-08-07 17:00 - 20:00 | North Lake Presbyterian Church, 975 Rolling Acres Rd, Lady Lake, FL, 32159, United States
Catch a wave and step into the golden age of California harmony, sun-drenched melodies, and timeless summer fun.

Don’t miss social media sensation family band Raized Wrong during a special two-night event at North Lake Presbyterian Church in Lady Lake. On August 7, enjoy a Beach Boys Tribute featuring Raized Wrong and their grandfather, Don Goldberg, a collaborator of Brian Wilson.
On August 8, experience the viral family band with 5 million followers worldwide as they perform the 1960s and 1970s classics that have earned them an international following.

The Joint Chiropractic Ocala Back-to-School, Back-to-Health School Supply Drive
2026-07-24 10:00 - 19:00 | The Joint Chiropractic, 2701 SW College Rd., Suite 107, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Join The Joint Chiropractic Ocala for our Back-to-School, Back-to-Health community event and school supply drive benefiting local students and families throughout Marion County.
This special event is designed to help children start the school year healthy, confident, and prepared. Families who bring a school supply donation will receive a FREE* Kids Initial Visit at The Joint Chiropractic Ocala, including a consultation, exam, and adjustment.
The event will feature school supply collection, goodie bags, family-friendly giveaways, and opportunities to learn more about chiropractic care for children and families.
As Ocala’s convenient walk-in chiropractic clinic, The Joint Chiropractic Ocala is proud to support our local community while helping families prioritize health and wellness during the back-to-school season.
Friday, July 24
The Joint Chiropractic Ocala
2701 SW College Rd Suite 107, Ocala, FL 34474
FREE* Kids Initial Visit
School Supply Drive
Goodie Bags
Supporting Local Students
Learn more and RSVP:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1BcdwP7MVY/
For Location Information
https://www.thejoint.com/florida/ocala/ocala-27108

*Offer valued at $55. Valid for new patients only. Initial visit includes consultation, exam and adjustment. Offer and offer value may vary for Medicare eligible patients. NC: IF YOU DECIDE TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL TREATMENT, YOU HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO CHANGE YOUR MIND WITHIN THREE DAYS AND RECEIVE A REFUND. (N.C. Gen. Stat. 90-154.1). FL & KY: THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL (RESCIND) PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED OR REDUCED FEE SERVICES, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. (FLA. STAT. 456.02) (201 KAR 21:065). Subject to additional state statutes and regulations. See clinic for chiropractor(s)’ name and license info. Clinics managed and/or owned by franchisee or Prof. Corps. Restrictions may apply to Medicare eligible patients. Individual results may vary.

Fourth in the Park
2026-07-04 10:00 - 14:00 | Tuscawilla Park, 825 NE Watula Ave., Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Celebrate July 4 with a full lineup of family‑friendly activities across Ocala. Enjoy a family-fun day at Tuscawilla Park with food trucks, a kids’ zone, live music and games. Cool off with FREE admission at both Aquatic Centers with themed festivities, DJs and giveaways. Splash Pads will offer music, games, and complimentary popsicles for even more summer fun. Plus, get FREE admission to explore the Discovery Center’s latest exhibit and take part in patriotic crafts and giveaways. A full day of excitement, entertainment, and community fun awaits!

Stars, Stripes and Art: Free Admission July 2026
2026-07-01 17:00 - 2026-07-31 17:00 | Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Museum admission is free throughout the entire month of July in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Explore special exhibitions and permanent collection galleries, visit the Artspace and take this opportunity to introduce family, friends and colleagues to the Appleton. Also in July, enjoy a free, special event featuring a talk by Dr. Keri Watson on Florida’s inspirational landscapes.
Click here for more details.

LILAC DANCE PARTY featuring COOKIES AND KARIM F2F #iykyk
2026-06-26 17:30 - 20:30 | Marion Cultural Alliance, 23 SW Broadway St,, ocala, FL, 34471, United States
Join us for an extended happy hour with music, sweets, and a dance floor that starts early and doesn’t take itself too seriously.
Friday June 26 | 5:30–8:30 PM
Cookies • Cocktails • Cash Bar • Beats
Free Event • Donations Accepted
Location: Marion Cultural Alliance
All bar proceeds benefit the nonprofit that brings the most guests
Come dance with Cookies and Karim – two DJs face-to-face, trading tracks live to bring the vibe.
After, go support our amazing downtown spots…or head home, take your supplements, and be in bed by 9. Either way, you’re still a rockstar.
Hosted by The LILAC Foundation

Ocala’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival
2026-06-20 15:30 - 22:00 | Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 N Jacksonville Rd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Celebrate America’s 250th at Ocala’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival on Saturday, June 20, 2026! Back by popular demand, the Tampa Bay Rodeo-produced event thunders into the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion for a night of heart-pounding Bull Riding and toe-tapping Live Country Music with multi-platinum country artist Gary Allan.
The Bull Bash kicks off with a salute to the brave men and women of the military who safeguard our freedom. The best bull riders in the region compete for the title and cash prizes in this single-event competition. Known for his raucous live performances, Gary Allan takes the stage after the bull riding competition concludes with his signature blend of smoldering vocals and rebellious lyrics.
Be sure to arrive early for the best seats in the house! The event and seating are under cover, so enjoy delicious food, cold beer, a ride on the mechanical bull and retail vendors, rain or shine. Don’t miss this riveting showcase of bull riding and live country music coming back to Ocala!
Free parking opens at 3:30 p.m., gates open at 4:30, Bull Bash kicks off at 7:00 p.m., and the headlining artist takes the stage at approximately 8:40 p.m.

National and local artists to perform in Ocala

Sew WHAT? Learning Sewing Basics with G
2026-06-20 10:00 - 13:00 | 2322 NE 8th Rd, Ocala, FL 34470, 2322 NE 8th Rd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
A button falls off. A hem comes undone. Your favorite shirt develops a tiny tear and suddenly it’s living in “the chair” instead of your closet.
We’re fixing that.
Join artist and designer Geraldo (“G”) for a fun, beginner-friendly morning of practical hand sewing, good music, snacks, conversation, and learning the kind of sewing basics everyone wishes they knew.
Together we’ll cover:
• sewing on buttons
• repairing simple tears
• basic hems
• unraveling buttonholes
• hook-and-eye and snap repair for garments
Social hour begins at 10:00 AM with light snacks and a hydration station. Class with G begins promptly at 10:30 AM.
No experience necessary. Seriously. None.
Bring:
• a garment needing simple repair
• your favorite scissors if you have them (we’ll have extras too)
• reading glasses if your eyes like to betray you during tiny tasks 😂
If your garment turns out to be too advanced for this beginner workshop, don’t worry — we’ll have fabric scraps available to practice on and will schedule future classes for trickier repairs and alterations. (Taking in garments will be covered in a separate future class.)
Basic sewing supplies including thread, needles, buttons, and fabric scraps will be provided.
Class Fee: $20
Open to ages 12 and up.
Please note: this is not a childcare event — attendees should be there to sew, learn, and participate.
Minimum class size: 5
Maximum class size: 12
If minimum enrollment is not met, participants will be offered either a refund or a rescheduled class date.
Space is limited, and honestly… your grandmother would probably be thrilled you finally learned this.

Marion County Braver Angels Alliance
2026-06-18 17:15 - 19:30 | Marion County Public Library Headquarters, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL
Marion County Braver Angels Alliance
Meeting on Thursday, June 18, 5:15 pm, Marion County Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
Topics will include an interactive discussion on: What does it mean to be an American? How do the ideals of the Declaration of Independence shape our American character? The discussion will be led by our red co-chair, Greg Harrell.
Braver Angels is leading the nation’s largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen our democratic republic.
To learn more, go to braverangels.org or email boswald@braverangels.org or gharrell@braverangels.org

Local authors book signing event
2026-06-06 16:00 - 18:00 | Koontz, 3111 S. Pine Avenue, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
On Saturday, June 6 from 4–6 PM Local authors — J.E. Leak, Dave Schlenker, Cynthia Van Heyde, Michael P. Koontz, and Carlton Reese — for a special book signing event.
Meet the minds behind the stories, explore their latest works, and take home a beautifully signed edition for your collection. A lovely way to spend a Saturday surrounded by creativity and community!
To learn more, call (352) 622-3241.

The Joint Chiropractic Ocala to Host Patient Appreciation Day
2026-05-28 10:00 - 19:00 | The Joint Chiropractic, 2701 SW College Rd., Suite 107, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
The Joint Chiropractic Ocala to Host Patient Appreciation Day with FREE* Chair Massages, Giveaways and $19* New Patient Visits

OCALA, Fla. — The Joint Chiropractic Ocala is inviting the Marion County community to celebrate health, wellness and chiropractic care during its upcoming Patient Appreciation Day on Thursday, May 28, 2026.
The all-day community event will feature FREE* chair massages from 4PM–7PM, raffle prizes, giveaways and a special $19* Initial Visit offer for new patients looking to experience affordable chiropractic care in Ocala.

Located in the heart of Ocala, The Joint Chiropractic provides convenient walk-in chiropractic care with no appointments and no insurance hassles. The event is designed to introduce more local residents to the benefits of routine chiropractic adjustments while thanking existing patients and the Ocala community for their continued support.
Residents searching online for:
• Chiropractor in Ocala, FL
• Back pain relief in Ocala
• Neck pain chiropractor near me
• Sciatica treatment
• Affordable chiropractic care
• Walk-in chiropractor in Ocala
• Wellness chiropractic services
• Chiropractic care for posture and mobility
…are encouraged to attend and learn more about how chiropractic care can support overall wellness, flexibility and recovery from everyday stress.
Event Details:
📅 Thursday, May 28, 2026
📍 The Joint Chiropractic Ocala
💆 FREE* Chair Massages | 4PM–7PM
🎟️ Raffle Prizes & Giveaways
⭐ $19* Initial Visit for New Patients
Community members can RSVP and learn more through the official Facebook Event page:
https://www.facebook.com/share/1EBnWwAckD/
More information about The Joint Chiropractic Ocala can be found at:
https://www.thejoint.com/florida/ocala/ocala-27108
The Joint Chiropractic continues to help Ocala residents discover accessible chiropractic care designed to help people feel better, move better and live better.

*Offer valued at $55. Valid for new patients only. Initial visit includes consultation, exam and adjustment. Offer and offer value may vary for Medicare eligible patients. NC: IF YOU DECIDE TO PURCHASE ADDITIONAL TREATMENT, YOU HAVE THE LEGAL RIGHT TO CHANGE YOUR MIND WITHIN THREE DAYS AND RECEIVE A REFUND. (N.C. Gen. Stat. 90-154.1). FL & KY: THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL (RESCIND) PAYMENT OR BE REIMBURSED FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT WHICH IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED OR REDUCED FEE SERVICES, EXAMINATION OR TREATMENT. (FLA. STAT. 456.02) (201 KAR 21:065). Subject to additional state statutes and regulations. See clinic for chiropractor(s)’ name and license info. Clinics managed and/or owned by franchisee or Prof. Corps. Restrictions may apply to Medicare eligible patients. Individual results may vary.

Sand and Sun Festival
2026-05-16 10:00 - 17:00 | Citizens’ CIrcle, 151 SE Osceola Ave, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
Ocala’s First Ever Sand Sculpture Competition!

Ocala Cultural Arts is bringing the beach to Downtown Ocala for the first time with the Sand and Sun Festival! This exciting event will feature six professional, nationally acclaimed sand sculptors who will create large-scale, detailed sand sculptures based on an open theme. A panel of expert judges will evaluate the sculptures and determine First and Second Place, with winners announced at 4:30 p.m., and attendees will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite sculpture to win the People’s Choice Award.
Children are invited to explore the Sandcastle Playground, a hands-on area with a sand pit where they can build and shape their own sand creations.
Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy live music and community performances at Citizens’ Circle creating a lively atmosphere filled with energy and entertainment. Visitors will also enjoy eating at local food trucks, exploring offerings from community non-profits and sponsors, and shopping for unique items from artisan and craft vendors.
This is a free event open to the public, offering a full day of family-friendly activities and creativity in downtown Ocala. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind celebration of sand, sun, and fun!

2nd Kentucky Derby Pub Crawl 2nd Annual – Sip, Strut & Run for the Roses!
2026-05-02 14:00 - 18:00 | District Bar & Kitchen, 110 SW Broadway St, Ocala, Florida
Join the excitement for the 2nd Annual Kentucky Derby Pub Crawl on Saturday, May 2nd, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM! Celebrate Derby Day in style as you trot, taste, and toast your way through some of the best local stops — all leading up to an unforgettable finish line party.
Start at Bank Street Patio Bar to pick up your koozie and Derby ticket! Trot your way through every stop for a featured cocktail along the route! (One included at each of the 8 stops)
After completing the crawl, gallop over to The Black Sheep for the grand finale — Derby viewing, race festivities, and one last signature drink to cap off the day.
Get ready for:
Derby hats, Big energy, Race‑day spirit, Photo ops, Prizes and community fun
Dressing in Derby attire is highly encouraged!

Event Details
📅 Date: Saturday, May 2nd
⏰ Time: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $50 per participant
🌹 Theme: Kentucky Derby – “Run for the Roses!”

Supporting a Great Cause
20% of proceeds benefit:
The Marion County Literacy Council supports community literacy programs and adult education initiatives.

Contact & Information
For more details, reach out to event coordinator Meigan Sardinia at: (352) 812‑3811 or go to our website.

Tickets: https://www.tickpick.com/organizer/event/kentucky-derby-pub-crawl-78761322

Run for the Roses in Marion County

Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band - Celebrate America
2026-04-26 14:00 - 18:00 | Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, 2601 SE Fort King St, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
OCALA, FL — The Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band invites the community to a stirring musical tribute with its upcoming performance, “Celebrate America – 250 Years and Counting.” This special event takes place for one day only on Sunday, April 26, at 3:00 PM at the MCPS Auditorium (1614 E. King Street, Ocala).
The afternoon kicks off early at 2:00 PM with a lively pre-concert set by the Semerad Jazzy Dixielanders, setting a festive stage for a program dedicated to the diverse sounds of the American spirit.
A major highlight of the event will be the presentation of the Les & Marcia Muncaster Scholarship. This year’s recipient, West Port High School senior Elizabeth Graff, will take the podium to guest-conduct Mt. Everest, a sweeping work by renowned American composer Rossano Galante.
For more information, visit www.kingdomofthesunband.org
As an all-volunteer, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, the Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band remains committed to keeping the arts accessible. All concerts are admission-free, though donations are gratefully accepted to support the band’s mission and future performances.

Marion County Braver Angels Alliance
2026-04-16 17:15 - 19:30 | Marion County Public Library Headquarters, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL
Marion County Braver Angels Alliance
Meeting on Thursday, April 16, 5:15 pm, Marion County Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
Topics will include the impact of immigration on our community.
Braver Angels is leading the nation’s largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen our democratic republic.
To learn more, go to braverangels.org or email boswald@braverangels.org or gharrell@braverangels.org

Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival
2026-04-11 10:00 - 17:00 | Tuscawilla Park, 825 NE Watula Ave., Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
The City of Ocala, in partnership with the Marion County Public Library System, presents the first annual Art Park Literary & Poetry Festival, a brand-new addition to the Tuscawilla Art Park Series! This free, family-friendly event invites the community to celebrate the power of language through literature, poetry, and the spoken word.
Attendees can enjoy live musical performances by Def-i and Küf Knotz & Christine Elise, community performances from the Marion County Public Library System, Community Stages, and the Ocala Civic Theatre, as well as a live Open Mic poetry recital featuring selected original works. Visitors can also explore local and regional author showcases, food trucks, literary community vendors, non-profits, and interactive art-making experiences for all ages.
The first edition of the My Place, My Story: Art Park Literary and Poetry Book will be available for free at the event, featuring selected poems from participating students and adult poets.

The Spice & Tea Exchange of Brownwood Celebrates 10 Years of Flavor
2026-04-10 08:00 - 2026-04-12 17:00 | The Spice & Tea Exchange®, 3638 Kiessel Rd, Wildwood, FL, 32163, United States
The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Brownwood is celebrating 10 years of serving The Villages community with a new ownership team. Owners Stephanie and Andrew Rush may be new to the Brownwood store, but they are seasoned pros when it comes to running a successful The Spice & Tea Exchange® store. They also own The Spice & Tea Exchange® of San Marco, in Jacksonville and The Spice & Tea Exchange® of Savannah, in Georgia. They will celebrate the store’s 10-Year Anniversary and Grand Reopening from Friday, April 10, through Sunday, April 12, at 3638 Kiessel Road in Wildwood, The Villages.
The 10-Year Anniversary and Grand Reopening is Friday, April 10, through Sunday, April 12, during regular store hours, and is open to the public. The store will offer elevated sampling and special deals throughout the weekend. Each day will feature 10% off a themed item: Friday, teas; Saturday, matcha; and Sunday, spice blends.

2026 Heart of HR - People, Purpose, Potential
2026-04-09 08:30 - 16:00 | Circle Square Cultural Center, 8395 SW 80th St., Ocala, FL, 34481, United States
2026 Heart of HR Conference: People, Purpose, Potential
Every great organization begins with its people, thrives through purpose and soars with potential. At the Heart of HR Conference, we’ll explore how these pillars help HR professionals to attract purpose-driven talent, build resilient teams and unlock the full potential of their workforce.
Key Topics:
HR Law Updates
🎯Purpose Driven Talent Acquisition
🧑‍💼Training Managers How to be Managers
🤝Building a Strong Community
🌟You Can’t Spell Heroes without HR
Meet Our Keynote Speaker:
Curtis Campogni is the founder of Speak 4 Motivating Change, a company dedicated to becoming the world’s most trusted source of inspirational content and consultation. Its mission is to inspire positive change, raise awareness and support people who help people. Through Speak4MC, Campogni empowers individuals and organizations with services built on collaboration, optimism and empathy. He aims to create lasting, large-scale impact by bringing communities together and providing tools that strengthen connections and partnerships.
Speaker Lineup:
Immerse yourself in insights from nationally and statewide recognized professionals, including Matthew Waggoner, Grace Bono, Kenneth Knox, Lindsay Massillon and Justin McConnell of Fisher Phillips, and Christie Engler. They are ready to equip you with strategies for success in today’s ever-evolving HR and workforce landscape.
Conference Highlights:
SHRM and HRCI Credits
Networking Opportunities
Interactive Sessions
Drawings for Fabulous Prizes
Why Attend?
People, Purpose and Potential are at the heart of today’s HR profession, shaping how workforces grow and thrive. The 2026 Heart of HR Conference is your guide to insights and strategies for growth, innovation and success.

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!

Free First Saturday - Appleton Museum of Art
2026-04-04 10:00 - 17:00 | Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Visit the Appleton on the April 4 for Free First Saturday! Admission to the museum is free from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly artmaking activities in the Artspace.
At 1 p.m. in the auditorium, exhibiting artist A.E. Kozeliski will discuss the works featured in her solo exhibition, “Portraits in Passing.” Learn about her contemporary Chinese brush painting techniques and enjoy a live demonstration in the auditorium. Free as part of Free First Saturday; no reservation needed to attend.
Food trucks will be on-site throughout the day.

Affordable Personalized Chiropractic In Your Neighborhood
2026-04-01 10:00 - 2026-04-30 19:00 | The Joint Chiropractic, 2701 SW College Rd., Suite 107, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Affordable Personalized Chiropractic In Your Neighborhood

Ocala, FL – The Joint Chiropractic Ocala is currently extending a limited-time offer exclusively for new patients, providing an initial chiropractic visit for just $19. This introductory package includes a consultation, examination, and adjustments. With no appointments necessary and no insurance required, The Joint Chiropractic prioritizes convenient access to care and emphasizes the importance of overall health and well-being. This promotional offer will be available until April 30, 2026, though some restrictions may apply.

Many individuals seek chiropractic care when issues like pain or stiffness begin to interfere with work, sleep, or daily activities. During the initial visit, chiropractors at The Joint will listen attentively to patients’ concerns, review their health histories, and assess the movement of their spine and joints to create a personalized care plan tailored to their specific needs. Additionally, wellness plans are available for children, ensuring they also benefit from chiropractic care. For more details, reach out to The Joint Chiropractic in Ocala.

The Joint Chiropractic – Limited-Time Offer!
2026-03-31 10:00 - 19:00, 2026-03-30 10:00 - 19:00, 2026-03-29 10:00 - 19:00, 2026-03-28 10:00 - 19:00, 2026-03-27 10:00 - 19:00, 2026-03-26 10:00 - 19:00 | The Joint Chiropractic, 2701 SW College Rd., Suite 107, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
The Joint Chiropractic – Limited-Time Offer!
New patients get their first month of chiropractic care for just $45*
at The Joint Chiropractic in Ocala. Includes up to 4 visits. Walk-ins welcome, no insurance required, with evening and weekend hours available.

Marion County Braver Angels Alliance
2026-03-26 17:15 - 19:30 | Marion County Public Library Headquarters, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL
Marion County Braver Angels Alliance
Meeting on Thursday, March 26, 5:15 pm, Marion County Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd.
Topics will include a community forum with a panel of experts discussing the constitutional issues related to immigration enforcement.
Braver Angels is leading the nation’s largest cross-partisan, volunteer-led movement to bridge the partisan divide and strengthen our democratic republic.

To learn more, go to braverangels.org or email boswald@braverangels.org or gharrell@braverangels.org
