Ocala Gazette

First Friday Art Walk
2026-01-02 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-05 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-11-07 18:00 - 21:00, 2025-10-03 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.

Ocala/Marion County Braver Angels Alliance Workshop
2025-12-17 17:30 - 19:00 | Marion County Public Library Headquarters, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL
Ocala/Marion County Braver Angels Alliance Workshop
Strengthening democracy by reducing polarization through structured conversations & workshops so together helps understand opposing views, find common ground, and build “civic friendships”.
Wednesday, December 17, 5:30 pm, at the Marion County Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala
Visit us online at: https://braverangels.org/

The Joint Chiropractic – Ocala is offering a limited-time 5-Plus-1 Wellness Promo!
2025-12-15 10:00 - 2026-01-13 19:00 | The Joint Chiropractic, 2701 SW College Rd., Suite 107, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
The Joint Chiropractic – Ocala is offering a limited-time 5-Plus-1 Wellness Promo! For a short time only, you can buy 5 months of routine chiropractic care and get 1 month free* — that’s 6 full months for the price of 5.
Whether you’re dealing with back pain, neck tension, headaches, or simply want to maintain a healthier, more active lifestyle, this is the perfect opportunity to commit to your wellness goals.
What’s Included:
• Up to 4 chiropractic visits per month
• No insurance needed
• Walk-ins welcome — evenings and weekends
• Affordable, flexible care for all lifestyles
Why Attend:
• Learn about the benefits of chiropractic care
• Meet the friendly Ocala team
• Ask questions, tour the clinic, and discover how routine adjustments can improve mobility, posture, and overall well-being
• Sign up for the 5-Plus-1 Promo directly during the event and start feeling better fast
Don’t Miss Out:
This special offer ends January 13, 2026 — come by, ask questions, and take advantage of this savings opportunity while it lasts.
Learn more about our clinic and care plans: https://www.thejoint.com/florida/ocala/ocala-27108
Discover why The Joint Chiropractic – Ocala is your destination for affordable, convenient, and effective chiropractic care.

An Evening of Elevated Flavors: Street Gastronomy & Curated Wine Pairing
2025-12-14 18:00 - 21:00 | Magnolia Art Xchange, 531 NE 1 Ave, Ocala, FL, United States
StrEAT Party: An Evening of Elevated Flavors, Street Gastronomy & Curated Wine Pairing Announces December Event
Partnership with Extra Dirty Creative, Graze & Prosper, Sandy’s Wine Shack, and Magnolia Art Exchange to A Host A Sophisticated Culinary and Rhythm Experience
An unforgettable cultural and culinary experience, “An Evening of Elevated Flavors: Street Gastronomy & Curated Wine Pairing,” is set to take place on Sunday December 14th, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the iconic Magnolia Art Exchange. This unique event promises a vibrant fusion of global street food, transformed into refined tapas, paired with a curated selection of fine wines.
The evening is designed to offer a sophisticated yet festive atmosphere, moving beyond a typical tasting into a meticulously crafted sensory journey. The chef-curated four-course tapas menu, provided by local culinary innovators Graze & Prosper and The Streatery Cart, will transform international street flavors into refined culinary bites.
Adding to the sophistication, Sandy’s Shack Imported Wine & Beer will provide The Sommelier’s Selection, guiding guests through five 3 oz pours of hand-selected wines, perfectly chosen to complement each course. Guests will also have the exclusive opportunity to enhance their private cellar with special, one-night-only bottle discounts on all featured vintages. “We’re thrilled to bring this elevated concept to the community, proving street food treated with reverence and paired expertly with fine wine,” says [Steph Giera, Owner of Extra Dirty Creative]. “The combination of Magnolia Art Exchange’s beautiful space and the talent of our local partners promises a truly magical night that Ocala needs… and bonus, it’s affordable.”
The ambiance will be set by the sultry and timeless sounds of Salsa and Latin jazz, spun entirely on vinyl by renowned vinyl record DJ, Pepito Von Dracula. Attendees are invited to mingle and dance the night away beneath a canopy of twinkling bistro lights.

Holiday Arts & Crafts Show - The Retreat at Silver Springs
2025-12-05 09:00 - 2025-12-06 15:00 | The Retreat at Silver Springs, 6455 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs
The Retreat at Silver Springs warmly invites you to our Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair on December 5–6.
This festive two-day event celebrates local creativity and the magic of the season, bringing together artisans, makers, families, and community members in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Guests can shop a curated selection of handcrafted gifts, holiday décor, artwork, jewelry, baked treats, and more — all created by talented local vendors. In addition to shopping, families can enjoy a variety of holiday activities, including a Kids’ Holiday Craft-Making Station, a Gift Wrapping Station, and Photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. Whether you’re checking off your holiday list, enjoying a seasonal outing with the family, or supporting local creators, the Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair offers something special for everyone. We still have a limited number of vendor spaces available for those interested in joining us.

For event details or vendor information, please contact The Retreat at Silver Springs.

Light Up Ocala
2025-11-22 15:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Ocala, S Magnolia Ave, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
Light Up Ocala is a longstanding community tradition to kick off the holidays that attracts thousands to downtown Ocala. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the holiday merry making event!
Light Up Ocala will have over 100 vendors including crafts, art and plenty of food options to choose from! Live entertainment will fill the air with festive sounds and an interactive kids zone will keep the whole family entertained. You won’t want to miss the Junior Sunshine holiday parade with a special appearance by Santa. All of which culminates in the most exciting part of the event: lighting up downtown Ocala!

Back Friday Package Sale at The Joint Chiropractic – Ocala | Chiropractic Deals All November!
2025-11-17 10:00 - 2025-11-30 19:00 | The Joint Chiropractic, 2701 SW College Rd., Suite 107, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Back Friday Package Sale at The Joint Chiropractic – Ocala | Unbeatable Chiropractic Deals All November!
Ocala, it’s time to take charge of your health and feel your best! The Joint Chiropractic – Ocala is excited to announce our Back Friday Package Sale, happening all month long this November. This exclusive annual event is your chance to save big on chiropractic care packages that help you stay aligned, pain-free, and full of energy all year long.
At The Joint Chiropractic, we make routine wellness care simple, affordable, and accessible for everyone. Our licensed chiropractors specialize in safe, effective spinal adjustments that relieve back pain, neck pain, shoulder tension, migraines, sciatica, and joint stiffness—while improving posture, flexibility, mobility, and sleep. Regular chiropractic care doesn’t just ease pain—it helps your body function at its best, supporting natural healing and long-term wellness.
Why You’ll Love Our Back Friday Sale:
• The biggest chiropractic discounts of the year
• Flexible packages designed for every lifestyle
• Walk-in visits, open evenings and weekends
• No insurance hassles or appointment requirements
• Convenient location in Gaitway Plaza
This is your once-a-year opportunity to experience the benefits of consistent chiropractic care at an unbeatable value. Invest in your health, move better, and feel better every day!
Learn more about our clinic and care plans: https://www.thejoint.com/florida/ocala/ocala-27108
Discover why The Joint Chiropractic – Ocala is your destination for affordable, convenient, and effective chiropractic care.

Maker's Market
2025-11-15 09:00 - 15:00 | 11875 Cedar St. Dunnellon, FL. 34432, 11875 Cedar St., Dunnellon, FL, 34432, United States
Join us to see handmade arts and crafts from local artisans! We will have everything from micro greens, jewelry, stained glass, welded yard art, and more. 40 unique vendors. Live music and good food. Free admission!

Workshop: Navigating Difficult Conversations
2025-11-12 17:30 - 18:30 | Marion County Public Library Headquarters, 2720 E Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala, FL
Ocala/Marion County Braver Angels Alliance Workshop: Navigating Difficult Conversations
A 1-hour workshop called Navigating Difficult Conversations (Handling the challenge among family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues) along with some discussion time.
This Braver Angels workshop will equip you with practical tools you can use immediately. You will learn skills to help lower the stress of difficult conversations and help you proceed with more confidence. You will come away with strategies to better soften critics and find common ground in an increasingly divisive environment.
Wednesday, November 12, 5:30 pm, at the Marion County Public Library, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd, Ocala
Visit us online at: https://braverangels.org/

Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band - Veterans Light the Stars Concert at Veterans Park
2025-11-09 18:30 - 20:30 | Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park, 2601 SE Fort King St, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
The Kingdom of the Sun Concert Band, under the direction of J. Craig Lilly, presents its annual “Veterans Light the Stars” concert, Sunday, November 9th, 6:30 PM at the Ocala/Marion County Veterans’ Memorial Park. A resounding tribute to our veterans, we invite you to bring your family, friends and lawn chairs for this very special evening of music, fireworks and American spirit. Admission is free! For more information, visit www.kingdomofthesunband.org

Ocali Country Days Festival
2025-11-09 09:00 - 16:00, 2025-11-08 09:00 - 16:00 | Silver River Museum, 1445 NE 58th Avenue, Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Ocali Country Days is back this fall. Visitors experience the Florida of yesteryear with Living History exhibits highlighting life during the 1800s. Pioneer cabins, old time skills demonstrations, sugar cane syrup making, blacksmith shop, wood-fired pottery kiln, live music and the Silver River Museum. The festival runs through the weekend of November 8-9 with live music, historic displays, vendors, great food, unique crafts for sale and more! $10 per person with children 5 and under free.
This project is supported in part by Marion Cultural Alliance.
For More Information, call (352) 236-5401 OR Visit https://silverrivermuseum.com/ocali-country-days-festival/

Brick City Cat Hospital Open House
2025-11-01 14:00 - 16:30 | Brick City Animal Hospital, 702 S. Magnolia Ave, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
OPEN HOUSE: A Lifetime of Care
Brick City Cat Hospital — 702 S. Magnolia Ave, Ocala
Saturday, Nov 1, 2025 • 2:00–4:30 PM
Locally owned & operated • Celebrating 25 Years
What to Expect (Timeline)
2:00–2:15 — Welcome & Check-In → pick up your Station Passport (visit stations to collect raffle tickets)
2:00–4:15 — Stations & Unguided Hospital Tours (drop-in, ~10-min mini-sessions)

Room 1: Kitten Care
Room 2: Behavior (litter box wins, enrichment, scratching)
Room 3: Declawing Awareness (humane alternatives & nail care)
Room 4: Dental Health (home brushing, diets, when COHAT is needed)
Adoption Corner: Sheltering Hands
Planning for the Future: PerpetualCare.org
Unguided hospital tours (treatment areas, lab, dental suite)

Doctor Talks (Lobby — each repeated twice)

2:30 & 3:30 — Feline Nutrition (life-stage diets, weight, picky eaters)
3:00 & 4:00 — Senior Pet Care (comfort, mobility, common conditions)

Food & Raffles

Food platters available in the Staff Lounge (please complete your Station Passport before entering)
Raffle Drawings at 4:30 PM

Why “A Lifetime of Care”?
From first vaccines and behavior foundations to dentistry and senior comfort, our team supports your cat at every life stage.
(352) 732-7877 • brickcitycat.com

Oak Run Community Craft Fair-hosted by your Ambassadors!
2025-11-01 09:00 - 13:00 | Oak Run Community, 6951 SW 115th Street Road, Ocala, FL, 34476, United States
Oak Run Craft Fair – All Are Welcome!
Join us for Oak Run’s signature Craft Fair, where artistry and community come together!
– Featuring crafted goods by our talented 55+ residents
– Enjoy food from Lucky’s Kitchen
– Enter to win exciting raffles and a LOTTO-sized 50/50 drawing
– Take advantage of our convenient Golf Cart Valet Service
– Visitors will receive a Passport to guide their journey through the fair.
Our gates will be open for easy access, with full security monitoring in place.
Whether you’re shopping for seasonal sparkle, supporting local artisans, or simply soaking up the atmosphere, this is a fair you won’t want to miss.

Ocala Arts Festival (FAFO)
2025-10-26 10:00 - 17:00, 2025-10-25 10:00 - 17:00 | Downtown Ocala, S Magnolia Ave, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
Discover breathtaking works of art at the Ocala arts festival.
October 25 & 26, 2025 – From 10am – 5pm
The annual Ocala Arts Festival celebrates the stunning pieces of talented artists from around the country, showcasing the creations of more than 150 artists. This event is organized by the Fine Arts for Ocala Organization and will be held in downtown Ocala. The festival features an array of art selections, mouthwatering eats, live performances, and more. Whether you’re looking for exciting things to do or seeking new ways to dive into Ocala’s art scene, this event offers unforgettable fun for all festival goers.

Women Empowering Women: Retire Smart
2025-10-23 18:30 - 19:45 | Country Club of Ocala, 6823 SE 12th Circle, Ocala, FL, 34480, United States
Women Empowering Women: Retire Smart
Join us for an evening of light bites, meaningful conversation, and empowering insights designed to help women build a secure, confident retirement.
Learn smart strategies for saving on taxes, creating lifelong income, and protecting your legacy through estate planning.
Whether you’re pre-retirement or already retired, this event is for you! Let’s sharpen each other’s iron and thrive—together.

Coffee with the Conductor
2025-10-15 10:00 - 11:00 | Ocala’s Marion Theatre, 50 S Magnolia Ave, Ocala, FL, 34471, United States
These free, educational and engaging sessions give audiences the opportunity to learn more about each concert repertoire, the history behind the pieces and composers, and participate in an informal Q&A with Maestro Matt Wardell.
Season Preview with Matt Wardell
Wednesday August 13, 2025 – 10:00 AM at the Marion Theatre
Coffee with the Conductor: Opening Night
Wednesday October 15, 2025 – 10:00 AM at the Marion Theatre
Coffee with the Conductor: Romantic America
Wednesday January 21, 2026 – 10:00 AM at the Marion Theatre
Coffee with the Conductor: To Spring! and the Young Artists Competition
Wednesday March 18, 2026 – 10:00 AM at the Marion Theatre
Coffee with the Conductor: I Got Rhythm and Closing Night!
Wednesday April 8, 2026 – 10:00 AM at the Marion Theatre

Belleview Farmer’s Market at Timberline Farms
2025-10-11 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-10-04 09:00 - 13:00, 2025-09-27 09:00 - 13:00 | Timberline Farm, Timberline Farm 3200 SE 115th St, Belleview, FL, 34420, United States
Belleview Farmer’s Market at Timberline Farm to enjoy Fresh Local Produce, Local Crafts,
Community Artisan Bake Goods & More! Open on Saturdays, 9am-1pm
If you are interested in becoming a vendor apply, click HERE to apply! Locally farmed/handmade produce, foods, crafts, and gifts. Offering to small farms a 10×10 space at the market free of charge to test if they would be a good fit for the Belleview Farmer’s Market at Timberline Farm.

Wear Your Wings 5K Fun Run/Walk
2025-10-11 08:00 - 17:00 | College of Central Florida Dassance Fine Arts Center, 3001 SW College Rd, Ocala, 34474, United States
Come join Marion County Children’s Alliance Family Violence Prevention Work group (FVPW) as they are hosting its annual Wear Your Wings 5K Fun Run/Walk to raise awareness and funds to provide resources, services and temporary shelter for victims and survivors of domestic violence.
Race Information
Date: Saturday October 11, 2025
Location: College of Central Florida Dassance Fine Arts Center Ocala, FL
Race Start: 8:00 AM
Onsite Packet Pickup: Race Day at 6:30 AM & ends 30 minutes before race start
All walkers and runners must register on RunSignUp
All proceeds go to: Marion County Children’s Alliance Family Violence Prevention Workgroup
Sponsorships and Donations accepted
There are no refunds
This family friendly event is perfect for walkers and runners of all ages and fitness levels. Participants can choose to either walk or run at this event and complete a 5K distance (3.1 miles). Individuals, teams, company groups are highly encouraged to participate. This fun run/walk event will start and finish at College of Central Florida Ocala campus. Shirts guaranteed to the first 150 registrants. Medals guaranteed to the first 150 finishers. Awards for top 3 finishers in each age group and overall male/female. Let’s come together as a community and support the FVPW mission to break the silence against Domestic Violence.
Race Highlights

Well organized course through College of Central Florida campus
Official Race shirt for all participants
Unique finisher’s medal
Post-race celebration
Refreshments & snacks
Awards for top finishers

Sponsors
If you are interested in becoming a sponsor or donating please call Valerie 352-438-5990

Party in Purple
2025-10-04 10:00 - 12:30 | Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1812 NW 21st Avenue, Ocala, Florida
Let’s come together to Party in Purple to raise awareness and critical funds for victims and survivors of domestic violence.
Proceeds of the dance fitness party will benefit local victims and survivors of domestic violence. To learn more, call the Marion County Children’s Alliance at (352) 438-5990 and find the event on Eventbrite.
Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala
10am-12:30pm

Pack Walk
2025-09-28 09:00 - 10:30 | Marion County Animal Services, 5701 SE 66th St., Ocala
Meet dogs from Marion County Animal Services and help support the park. Participants help walk the shelter dogs, interact with them and learn if one might be a good fit for adoption. Park admission is $2 per person. Learn more at animalservices.marionfl.org

Hispanic Heritage Festival
2025-09-27 11:00 - 16:00 | College of Central Florida, 3001 SW College Rd, Ocala, FL, 34474, United States
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at the Hispanic Heritage Festival at the Ewers Century Center on the CF Ocala Campus, 3001 S.W. College Road. On Saturday, Sept. 27, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., enjoy a family event with free parking, food trucks, community resources, vendors, live music and more. CF admissions staff will be available to help you submit your CF application for free and answer any questions you have about our programs.
This event is co-hosted by Hispanic Business Council.

7th ANNUAL FALL ARTS & CRAFTS SHOW
2025-09-27 09:00 - 13:00 | Countryside Presbyterian Church of Ocala, 7768 SW Hwy 200, Ocala, FL, 34476, United States
Countryside Presbyterian Church is hosting its 7th Annual Fall Arts & Crafts Show
From 9am–1 pm • 7768 SW Hwy 200 in Ocala
The show features a variety of handmade items from talented local craftsmen and artisans as well as the popular basket raffle and bake sale.
Food and drink will be available at the Country Café.

Zachary Bartholomew: Tribute to Chick Corea
2025-09-26 19:30 - 21:30 | Reilly Arts Center, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala, FL, 34470, United States
Join award-winning pianist Dr. Zachary Bartholomew and his trio, as they deliver an endearing and interactive musical performance remembering jazz icon Armando “Chick” Corea. Renowned pianist-composer and prolific explorer of jazz and classical music, Chick is a DownBeat hall-of-famer, NEA Jazz Master, 27-time Grammy winner, and one of the most creative and prolific musical forces in American music this last century. This dynamic show will feature his musical compositions spanning from the beginning to the end of his career. Additionally, the concert will feature some of Bartholomew’s original music that pays homage to this larger-than-life musical legend who passed away in 2021.
Zachary Bartholomew – piano
Brandon Robertson – bass
Derris Lee – drums
