Events in Marion County, FL

Designed for homeschooled teens, this club welcomes participants who bring their own art supplies to create, exchange ideas, and share their work with fellow teens. It offers a chance to connect with new friends who also love making art. Admission is $5.

Car and truck enthusiasts gather at Sunset Delights in Summerfield for a Cruise-In hosted by Sunset Delights and the Asphalt Misfits of North Central Fl. Admission is free, and all makes and models are welcome, from classics and customs to late-model performance cars and other special-interest vehicles. At each gathering, one standout car or truck receives Cruiser of the Week recognition. Guests can order from the full menu, including ice cream and a range of food options. For more information, contact David at 954-562-7139 or Sunset Delights at 352-347-7700.

A weekly locals event takes place each Wednesday. The entry fee is $5.

Create a personalized mosaic in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Beginners are encouraged, with experienced instructors offering step by step guidance throughout. Options range from foxes and turtles to flowers, trays, pots, pumpkins and more, and you can choose your own colors to make it unique. All materials are provided, and you will select your shape or design during the session. Pricing starts at $45 to $65 depending on project size. Hosted at Chelsea Art Center. Participants are welcome to bring their favorite food or drink to keep the creativity flowing.

This friendly, hands-on painting workshop at the Eighth Avenue Adult Activity Center shares the joy of making art in a supportive setting. Attendance is free, supplies are provided, and no prior art experience is required. Everyone is welcome, with a special focus on including individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, and ESE students are encouraged to take part. Presented with appreciation to the James E. and Betty J. Huffer Foundation, it offers a warm space where creativity and confidence can grow.

Five Guys is hosting a fundraiser that supports Wreaths Across America in Ocala and the Gainesville VA. The effort focuses on raising money for these two organizations. Only the Five Guys locations in Ocala and Gainesville are participating.

Vibe Tribe’s weekly, family friendly community gathering centers on connection, creative expression, and music. It begins with a guided support circle that offers a compassionate place to check in, listen, and be heard. There is no expectation to speak, and the focus stays on presence rather than fixing or preaching. After the first hour, the gathering shifts into an open, collaborative music session where instruments come out, ideas flow, and whatever you are carrying can be expressed through sound. No musical experience is needed, and all instruments and skill levels are welcome. The space is inclusive and community focused, whether you want to talk, listen, make music, or simply show up as you are.

After hours at Arts at The Canopy, the Main Gallery shifts into a softly lit setting where Psychic Medium Kelly MacLeod leads an intimate evening centered on messages and connection. Surrounded by artwork, guests take part in group readings as Kelly shares what she describes as communication from loved ones, angels, and guides. Whether someone hopes to feel close to a person they miss, is seeking clarity or reassurance, or is simply curious, the experience blends stories, laughter, emotion, and inspiration, with the possibility of a few unexpected moments. Complimentary wine, bites, and refreshments are included, and capacity is intentionally small to keep the atmosphere personal. Kelly has worked with individuals and groups for years and has more than 100 published client reviews. After memorable conversations during a recent open reception at The Canopy, she returns for a full evening in this intimate gallery setting.

This pet vaccination clinic serves dogs and cats in the order of arrival, with vaccine supply limited to stock on hand. Plan to be there at the start and allow enough time for check in by arriving no later than 15 minutes before closing. Individual vaccines include a one year rabies shot for $14, distemper/parvo (DHPP) for $20, intranasal 6 month Bordetella for $20, and cat distemper (FVRCP) for $18. Package options are available, with a dog package at $34 that includes rabies plus distemper/parvo, a dog package at $54 that adds Bordetella, and a cat package at $32 that combines rabies with cat distemper. Only cash or personal checks are accepted, with no bills over twenty dollars, and exact change is appreciated. No appointment is required. For safety, bring only healthy dogs, keep dogs leashed, place cats in carriers, and use one carrier per cat. A three year rabies vaccine is not offered. These clinics help fund the Florida International Teaching Zoo, a 501-C-3 not-for-profit. All vaccines are given by a veterinarian. For recorded information, call 352-867-7788.

Make your own spell bottles intended for prosperity, support in manifesting specific goals, and protection for your home and personal energy, with room for other intentions as well. For more information or to reserve a seat, contact Audrey at 352-414-8813.

Paint a seasonal study of autumn leaves with watercolor in a hands-on workshop led by Barbara Fife. The session focuses on color and technique. Participants build layered washes, allow pigments to flow and mingle for natural textures, and shape the composition with shadows, including richly colored cast shadows that add depth and dimension. The class welcomes adults and teens at any experience level, from first-time painters to experienced watercolor artists, and no drawing skills are required. Please bring 10 by 15 inch watercolor paper, watercolor paints and brushes, two containers for water, and a roll of paper towel. The cost includes a mat for the finished piece. If supplies are not available, there is a $10 option to borrow brushes and a palette for the class, and watercolor paper is included. Barbara Fife is a professional artist and calligrapher who exhibits primarily in Florida and has sold work nationally and internationally. Watercolor is her favorite medium. She is a lifetime member of the Citrus Watercolor Society and has been a member of both the Ocala Art Group and the Florida Watercolor Society for more than 20 years, receiving numerous awards for her work.

Prepare for the Florida Concealed Carry Permit in Ocala with a focused class at Pro Firearms Academy. The course fulfills the class requirement for the permit and features a shooting exercise at the range as part of the training. The fee is $50. For questions, call (720) 679-4900. Weapons and ammunition are not sold.

The 8th Annual Howl-O-Ween Pawty at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion offers a family-friendly evening that supports the animals of Marion County. Admission is $5 per person for ages 13 and up, while children 12 and under and pets are free. A refreshment ticket is included with entry. The event features food trucks, trunk-or-treat and games for kids, vendors, and plenty of festive fun. Costume, trunk, and booth contests include prizes.

Mamasquatch Makes Art launches a bi-weekly live anime painting residency at Samurai Hibachi & Ramen in Ocala, FL, where diners can watch an anime canvas take shape right in the dining room while enjoying hibachi, ramen, or sushi. Admission is free with your dinner. The kickoff session centers on completing a high-energy piece of Saitama from One Punch Man in his iconic Serious Punch stance. Because detailed anime paintings can require more than ten hours, the background is prepared in the studio beforehand, and the live portion highlights bold linework, sharp shading, and final details. After the session, the canvas receives a protective varnish in the studio, then returns at the next session to be displayed on the restaurant’s dining room wall. Guests are welcome to suggest which character should be featured next in the event discussion.

Step into a tabletop world of imagination with the Dungeons & Dragons club at the RLE Creative Arts Center in Rainbow Lakes Estates. Players collaborate to explore fantastical settings, face monsters, and create memorable stories together. Everyone is welcome, whether experienced with the game or brand new, and newcomers receive guidance to get started. The club is open to all ages, and participants 12 and under must attend with a parent or guardian. An annual fee applies, set at $10 for residents and $15 for non-residents. For more information, contact David Harris at 352-445-1887. Please text first or call and leave a message with your name.

Players gather at the RLE Clubhouse for relaxed games of dominoes with the Rainbow Lakes Estates Dominoes Club. Newcomers and experienced players are equally welcome, and sets are provided. The focus is on friendly competition, conversation, and community connection. An annual membership fee applies, with rates of $10 for residents and $15 for non-residents.

This event features 1v1 Commander at FNM with a $3 entry fee. Deck building and gameplay follow the official Wizards of the Coast banned list.

The 5th Annual Bo Sweeny Legacy Classic brings friends, families, golfers, businesses, and community supporters together at Eagle Ridge Golf Club to celebrate the legacy of Bo Sweeny through a four player scramble. Teams may enter for 500 dollars, and individual golfers can register for 125 dollars. Registration covers golf with a cart, lunch, a golfer appreciation bag, tournament play, contests, raffles, and time for networking and community celebration. Activities include nearest to the pin, longest drive, a hole in one opportunity, a 50/50 raffle, a lotto raffle, prizes, and more.

Explore a community marketplace at Rolling Greens Village where residents and local creators present artwork, baked goods, candles, clothing, crafts, jewelry, and home goods. It is a chance to shop, support local vendors, and spend time in the community. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. Vendor participation is available. No payment or personal information will be requested through social media. Do not share personal or financial details with anyone claiming to represent the event online.

Now in its second year, this community walk in Ocala, Florida supports the Building Fund. Participants can share a walk, connect with others, and help advance the cause through their involvement. Every step contributes to the fund.

The Downtown Ocala Market is a market held in downtown Ocala.

A fine arts festival in downtown Ocala showcases work from more than 150 artists from across the country, alongside student art, performances by local talent, and on-site food trucks. The downtown setting brings together art, entertainment, and food in one place.

Take part in a hands-on workshop with Maylle where adults and teens ages 13 to 99 transform recycled fabrics into fabric pumpkins finished with a natural stem. Spanish language support is available. Children ages 8 to 12 may participate with a registered adult for $10 each. The cost for adults and teens is $30, and all supplies are included. The finished pumpkins can be displayed individually or grouped together for fall home decor or gifts. This is a creative session that welcomes families to make something together.

A Halloween themed trail race at the Shangri-La Trailhead and Campground features a 5K with run and ruck options, a 10K, and a combined 5K and 10K challenge where both distances are completed in sequence. Presented by Combat Racing, the event offers ruck divisions for every race, with a patch for ruck finishers. The setting showcases the Florida Greenway with a spooky atmosphere beneath live oaks and along moonlit trails. Costumes are welcome. Headlamps are required for the 10K and the combined challenge. Every participant receives a finisher medal, and awards will recognize top performers in each event.

Launching the season, the full orchestra presents a program where celebrated works of art become sound, led by conductor Matthew Wardell. The concert features the world premiere of Michael Daugherty's The Hallucinogenic Toreador, a colorful salute to Salvador Dalí. Rachmaninoff's Isle of the Dead deepens the mood with a hypnotic journey inspired by Böcklin's haunting painting. After intermission, Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition concludes the program in Maurice Ravel's celebrated orchestration, turning a gallery of images into vivid symphonic scenes. This performance is presented with support from Empath Health, Alva House of Style, a Friend of the Ocala Symphony, and Nick Robinson of Colliers Global Commercial Real Estate Services.

The SAL Squadron 284 spaghetti feed fundraiser offers a $10 lunch that includes spaghetti with meatballs, garlic bread, a side salad, and a dessert that will be announced later.

Explore the Everglades on canvas in a guided wet-in-wet oil painting class with Sean Mullins. Beginners are welcome, and every participant completes a 16 by 20 inch oil painting by the end of the session. Instruction covers a range of wet-in-wet techniques, and all painting supplies are provided. This class is open to ages 13 through adult, and the fee is $65. Please bring baby wipes and a roll of paper towels. You are welcome to bring a lunch or snack, and an apron is optional. The workshop takes place at Chelsea Art Center.

Learn collage techniques with guidance from artist Amanda Acevedo. This hands-on workshop invites participants to create an original piece by snipping, trimming, and tearing assorted materials into a new composition. All supplies are provided, and personal materials can be brought to incorporate if desired. There is no cost to attend. A suggested $5 donation supports the Marion County Maker Collective and Artify Ocala.

Admission is $20 and all proceeds benefit children in South Marion County. Snacks and drinks will be provided. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. Please consider bringing children’s books to help stock Free Little Libraries throughout the region.

Players can compete in a weekly One Piece store tournament. The entry fee is $5.

Celebrate spooky season with an after-dark walk featuring glowing lights, candy, and a few extra touches. A playful trick-or-treat atmosphere sets the tone for a festive nighttime stroll.

Addicted To Love 2 brings an original contemporary rock musical to Ezell Recreation Center in The Villages, offering a high-energy production that blends feel-good music and storytelling for an uplifting night that aims to spark joy, laughter, and plenty of applause. Attendees may bring their own drinks and dinner or snacks. Tickets are available online, and additional information can be found on the show’s website.

Pause for a restorative evening of sound-based meditation focused on relaxation and renewal. Gentle tones from crystal singing bowls, Tibetan bowls, chimes, and other sacred instruments foster a calm, grounded experience. The session is suitable for all levels and offers a supportive setting to reconnect with yourself. Bring a yoga mat or something comfortable to lie on, a blanket in case you get cool, and a pillow or bolster for extra comfort. You are welcome to bring crystals to charge with the vibrations, along with an open heart and willingness to receive. The cost is $25, cash only, payable upon arrival. Space is limited, so arrive a little early and call 352-693-4592 to reserve a spot.

The Gray Family Halloween Festival returns to the Ocala Downtown Market with more than 60 holiday vendors handing out candy at their booths. Trick or treating will be available throughout the market along with live entertainment, costume contests on the stage, food trucks, and more. Admission and parking are free. For sponsorship, vendor, or food truck inquiries, contact Matt Gray at 352.875.4224. Matt Gray is the host and the only person booking vendors, so disregard outreach from anyone else. For general questions, call or text 352.875.4224.

At Champions Run Luxury RV Resort, a family friendly Halloween Carnival Weekend invites the public to enjoy costumes, candy, and carnival style activities. Across the weekend, look for Halloween trivia at the Tiki Bar and themed rock painting in the Clubhouse, along with a family movie night featuring Hocus Pocus on a big outdoor screen, weather permitting, with free popcorn. Creative time includes craft sessions inspired by Monsters Inc. The Clubhouse parking lot hosts a pet costume contest and a Trunk or Treat where guests can dress up and bring a trick or treat bag. The carnival brings plenty of prizes and sweets plus a children’s costume contest. Adults can gather at the Tiki Bar for an evening party that includes an adult costume contest. There is also a kids screening of Monsters Inc shown outdoors, weather allowing, with free popcorn. The weekend concludes with open mic and karaoke with Aaron.

This golf outing at the Country Club of Silver Springs Shores features a four person scramble. The entry fee is $80 per person and includes a round of golf, lunch, and a gift bag. Awards are presented for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, with additional contests for closest to the pin and longest drive. A selected par 3 offers a $10,000 hole in one opportunity. Raffles include more than 40 items. All profits go to local charities.

Registration is required for this returning Ocala Ace Race at Ocala Greenway Disc Golf Course in Ocala, FL, a local tradition that celebrates Down Syndrome Awareness and donates all proceeds to ARC Marion, a community organization supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Players will take on two rounds using a modified 18-hole Ace Race layout focused on aces and metal hits. Participants receive a custom player pack developed with Discraft, and Halloween-themed surprises add to the atmosphere. Extras include a Most Metals side pot where the top finisher takes the entire pot and a 50/50 drawing. Mulligans are available for one dollar each, up to ten per player. Hole 21 serves as a special Down Syndrome Awareness feature, granting every player an additional throw. Registration is available through Disc Golf Scene.

Reiki practitioners and masters can practice, receive, and connect with the community in a supportive setting. Those who are curious about Reiki are welcome to receive as well. The focus is on using Reiki to encourage relaxation and support healing for the body, mind, and spirit. Each participant will have time on the table to receive. Hosted by Patricia Squires.

Kids can relax, play, and connect with friends at Rainbow Lakes Estates Youth Center in Dunnellon, enjoying a variety of games, crafts, and activities in a welcoming setting. The center offers regular hours midweek on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, along with occasional special hangout days when school is out. Children 12 and under must have a parent present. Plans and schedules may change, so look for the most up-to-date information before heading over.

Meet Damian Chapa, known as Miklo from the film Blood in Blood Out, alongside Magic at a fan meet and greet at Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant in Ocala. Admission is 50 and includes access to both guests plus a selfie photo. Children under 11 are free. Autographs for items brought from outside are $30, while merchandise purchased at the Vato Loco booth includes a signature at no additional charge. New LA ONDA jackets with a fresh design will be available for 200.

The 39th Annual Mopars with Big Daddy brings together Mopar enthusiasts for a multi-day celebration of cars, special guests, and charitable giving. Raffle and auction proceeds support St. Jude Children’s Hospital, which provides cancer care for children and helps families stay with their child at no cost. Spectator parking is managed by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Post, and a portion of parking fees benefits the Post. Businesses and individuals are welcome to contribute items to the fundraiser by coordinating with the museum. This edition features appearances by Don Garlits, including a dinner and Q&A presented by Phillips Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Ocala, as well as a guided museum tour highlighting cars with notable stories. The tour is limited to 25 people and costs $75 per person, and advance registration is encouraged due to limited capacity. Marking the 50th anniversary of the Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, Shirley Muldowney will take part in the festivities. She will join the Q&A, sign autographs, pose for photos, and offer exclusive merchandise. Participation options include car show registration at $40 with pre-registration or $45 day of event, a 20 by 20 foot vendor space at $55 with pre-registration or $65 day of, and a car corral space at $45 with pre-registration or $50 day of. Dry camp RV spots are $25. The dinner is $45, and the museum tour is $75. Spectator parking is $5, and spectator admission to the show is free. Throughout the show there will be fundraiser raffle and auction sessions for St. Jude, trophy presentations, and the special museum tour. During show hours the museum grounds are reserved for vendors, registered vehicles, and pedestrians, with general vehicle access routed through the designated spectator parking area to the south. Accessible parking is available on the grounds while spaces last. Event photography will be provided by Magrich Photography. Donors to the fundraiser include Summit Racing Equipment, John Force Racing, JW and Kim McNeal, and Desktop Muscle Cars.

An open mic focused on spoken word takes place at Brick City Center for the Arts in downtown Ocala, with performances either inside the gallery or in the adjoining courtyard. The event is free and welcomes everyone, including guests and observers who want to experience the work. Performers may include published and first-time voices across authors, writers, poets, and spoken word artists, highlighting poetry, literature, and performance art.

This volunteer work day supports The Retreat at Silver Springs. Volunteers can assist with general tasks such as cleaning, organizing, and caring for outdoor areas. Participation is welcome for a few hours or for the full day. Breakfast and lunch are included for volunteers. Optional overnight lodging is available before or after for $20 per person. For registration or questions, email The Retreat at theretreat@fldisciples.org.

Santa's Gingerbread Kitchen mini sessions invite children into a festive holiday scene for 20 minutes of hands-on fun with Santa. Little bakers mix cookie dough at Santa's side, decorate a gingerbread house, share laughter, and create memories while the moments are thoughtfully photographed. The atmosphere is relaxed and interactive, focusing on genuine smiles and natural connection rather than rigid poses. Each reservation includes eight professionally edited digital images to keep. A $75 retainer secures a spot, with the remaining balance due the week of the session. Availability is limited, with only eleven sessions still open.

Now in its 45th year, the Marion County Chili Cook-Off returns for another installment.

The luncheon at Oak Run Palm Grove Country Club brings a pirate and mermaid flair, with a Beta Boutique on site. Prizes will be awarded in a lighthearted contest for the most creative pirate hat or mermaid fascinator. A full meal will be served, and a homemade cake bar will cap off the celebration for dessert. Registration costs $45, with no refunds after the registration deadline. For registration details, contact Lisa Kinser at 352-895-8673 or lkinser4730@gmail.com. For Beta Boutique information, contact Pam Burrell at 352-208-7179 or bigmama4uf@gmail.com. For general questions, contact Jacqua Ballas at 352-239-3166 or ballasjl@gmail.com.

YourPhoenixIsRising energy musicians present a relaxing sound bath featuring crystal singing bowls, native drums, djembe, Tibetan bowls, rain sticks, and other instruments. Settle in as nature-inspired tones and rhythms from around the world are played at varying intervals. The experience unfolds as a gentle journey, with waves of sound that rise and fall to encourage deep rest and calm.

Settle in for a true crime themed dinner where a laugh filled investigation unfolds as you dine. The story plays out in real time in the present day, and the culprit could be anyone in the room, even the person at your table. With performers mingling incognito among guests, expect surprises, plot twists, and the chance to become a prime suspect yourself. Designed for adult audiences, this interactive theater experience blends comedy, mystery, and dinner for a social night out. From The Dinner Detective, with shows presented across the country since 2004, it delivers intrigue and unscripted moments from beginning to end.

A spirited girls night takes over Ocala Downtown Market with a bold, playful theme inspired by animal prints, glam style, and fierce fashion. The evening centers on stepping outside the ordinary, celebrating confidence, and making memories with friends. This curated shopping experience features nearly 100 Central Florida women-owned businesses showcasing boutique clothing, handcrafted jewelry, home décor, sweet treats, luxurious body care, and more. Shoppers can explore a wide variety of finds while enjoying a lively atmosphere. DJ Rae Bae keeps the vibes high with feel-good favorites and girl power anthems. A free photo booth by Legacy Rhythm Entertainment offers a fun way to capture the night. Raffle giveaways pop up throughout the event for added excitement. Local food trucks serve dinner, and there are plenty of beverages to enjoy, including cocktails, mocktails, and dessert options for a sweet finish. On-site experiences add to the fun with permanent jewelry, fairy hair, chair massages, hat bars, henna tattoos, and other surprises. The event is free and open to the public, rain or shine.

Disney’s Aladdin in Concert Live to Film brings the 1992 animated favorite to the stage with the Ocala Symphony performing Alan Menken’s Academy Award-winning score in perfect sync with the movie. The full film appears on a cinema-quality screen above the orchestra, while the original dialogue and sound effects play through a state-of-the-art sound system. Maestro Matthew Wardell conducts more than 60 professional musicians, animating moments from Arabian Nights to A Whole New World. Presented in the 700-seat AdventHealth Mainstage at the Reilly Arts Center and presented under license from Disney Concerts, this family-friendly event blends the magic of film with the power of live symphonic music. Sponsored by Canopy Oaks Real Estate and Sonya Nasser with Berkshire Hathaway Realty. Funding provided by Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau, with additional support from Marion Cultural Alliance.

Needle Nags is a special interest group for fabric enthusiasts that explores appliqué techniques and decorative stitching. Activities cover edge appliqué using freezer paper, needle-turn methods, and machine appliqué, along with embroidery embellishments to add detail to finished pieces. Meetings take place at the Marion County Sheriff's Substation. Participants can stay for a short visit or spend more time, depending on their plans.

Now in its fourth year, the Ocala Holiday Craft Show transforms World Equestrian Center, Expo 1 into a festive marketplace of handmade treasures. Browse work from more than 350 artists and crafters featuring unique gifts, holiday décor, jewelry, home accents, specialty foods, and more, all under one roof. Enjoy live music while you shop, and capture free photos with Santa. Presented by Pointe Grand Communities. General admission is $10 for ages 13 and up, children 12 and under are free, and parking is free. An advance preview session offers limited crowds and dedicated shopping time, plus a tote bag and special gift, with tickets available in advance or at the door.

At the World Equestrian Center, Expo 1, this fourth annual holiday market brings together more than 350 artists and crafters under one roof with handmade gifts, festive décor, jewelry, home accents, specialty foods, and more. Shoppers can enjoy live music and take free photos with Santa throughout the event. An advance preview on Friday features lighter crowds and dedicated shopping time, plus a tote bag and a special gift, with admission priced at $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Friday general shopping is $5. Saturday and Sunday admission is $8, with free entry for children 12 and under. Parking is free.

A monthly tarot share hosted by Audrey Kyzer takes place at The Spiritual Enrichment Center at All About Art in Belleview. Participants are encouraged to bring their cards, ask questions, exchange knowledge, and practice reading together. For more information, call 352-414-8813.

Celebrate handmade creativity at a market dedicated to original arts and crafts. Shoppers can explore photography, pottery, stained glass, paintings, woodworking, and more from talented creators. Those interested in participating can request an application by emailing grumbleshouseantiquesandplants@gmail.com or calling (352) 465-1460. The fee is $30 for a 10 x 10 space. Please stay alert for scammers and use the contact information provided to handle applications.

Experience a Friends Giving themed market at Citizens Circle in downtown Ocala, featuring more than 50 vendors offering vintage finds and handmade goods. Enjoy food trucks, sweet treats, and live music. The event welcomes families and pets, and restrooms are available on site. Free parking is offered in the parking garage next door, in lots in front of City Hall, and along nearby streets. Vendor inquiries can be sent to Kayla at downtownvintagemarket.ocala@gmail.com.

Affordable pet vaccinations are available to help keep dogs and cats protected. Rabies shots are $14. The 5-way vaccine for dogs and puppies is $20, the 3-way vaccine for cats and kittens is $20, and kennel cough vaccines are $20. It is a simple way to cover essential care without stretching the budget.

A competitive organized play tournament featuring one-on-one constructed decks and best-of-three matches. The event runs with 50 minute Swiss rounds followed by a top cut to determine final standings. Creating a Carde.io account in advance helps speed up check-in.

Rock Hard returns to Fire Rock in Silver Springs for an outdoor show on the back deck featuring classic, Southern, 80s, 90s, and alternative rock, with the music getting heavier as the set goes on. The venue offers a full liquor bar along with pool tables and games, plus limited food and snacks. Smoking is permitted inside and outside. This event is for ages 21 and over, and bikers are welcome. The band features Jeff Rahmeyer on lead vocals, John English on guitar and vocals, Earl Ammer on bass and vocals, and Billy Mansbridge on drums, a four-piece cover lineup formed in 2022 by former members of Liquor Boxx, Sniper, 3 Ring Circus, and Keeper. Presented by Son Rae Entertainment and Fire Rock.

Round two of the Vendetta Summoner skirmish offers another chance for competitive play. Entry is $15.

Music Box brings chamber music into close focus in Ocala. In the Reilly Arts Center’s Midgett Black Box Theatre, listeners sit just a few feet from the performers, heightening connection and immediacy. Each concert showcases Ocala Symphony musicians with invited guests, combining superb playing with context that opens a window into the works. The series champions collaboration, curiosity, and the shared thrill of live music up close. This edition spotlights Duo Sylvania, with Ocala Symphony Principal Second Violinist Tania Moldovan and guitarist Silviu Ciulei. Their program stretches across centuries and cultures, from Bach and Paganini to Piazzolla, Bartók, and Romanian folk traditions. Centered on the dialogue between violin and guitar, the performance offers intimacy, color, and a lively conversational spirit.

Celebrate the season at an evening market filled with local flavor. Browse handmade creations and distinctive finds from local vendors, enjoy live music, and grab a bite from food trucks. Bring friends and family to make a night of it while celebrating the fall season. Vendors who wish to participate can request an application link or PDF by emailing rainbow.lake@marionfl.org.

An open horse show offers classes for all, with speed events on Friday evening and English, Western, and Ranch competition on Saturday. New divisions are being introduced this year, and the Rookie Division awards a belt buckle to the winner.

Cold Shot Band brings an energetic, dance-forward performance with a lively party vibe. Expect upbeat songs and a non-stop rhythm that keeps the dance floor active from start to finish.

The Women of Rock Las Vegas Show brings a high energy tribute to Citrus Springs Community Center in Florida, celebrating seven trailblazing female rock artists with a full live band and a multimedia production that captures each era’s look and sound. The lineup features portrayals of Joan Jett, Stevie Nicks, Pat Benatar, the Heart sisters, Alanis Morissette, and Linda Ronstadt, with performers in period costumes channeling the attitude, vocals, and musicianship that defined their careers. Expect favorite hits such as “Hit Me with Your Best Shot” and “Heartbreaker” from Pat Benatar, “Back on the Chain Gang” and “Brass in Pocket” from The Pretenders, “Stand Back” and “Edge of Seventeen” from Stevie Nicks, “I Love Rock and Roll” and “I Hate Myself for Loving You” from Joan Jett, “These Dreams” and “Crazy on You” from Heart, “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” and “When Will I Be Loved” by Linda Ronstadt, and “Hand in My Pocket” and “Ironic” by Alanis Morissette. The evening opens with a special guest set as Linda Maze shares three original songs. Tickets are general admission, and early purchase savings are available. Sponsorship opportunities are offered through Vegas Show Bands.

Celebrate the launch of OP-18 with a special release gathering. Registration is available through the Bandai TCG+ app.

Experience The Dinner Detective’s interactive true crime murder mystery dinner show in Ocala, where the case unfolds as you enjoy dinner and the night progresses. The performers blend into the audience, so suspects might be closer than you think, and some guests may even become part of the investigation. Expect a lively mix of humor, suspense, and social interaction throughout the evening. This nationwide production has entertained audiences since 2004 and is suitable for adult audiences, with plenty of surprises and spontaneous moments.

A candlelit concert brings the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons to Ocala Civic Theatre (The Marion Players, Inc.), performed by Listeso String Quartet Ocala. The setting is aglow with candles to create a multi-sensory atmosphere for an intimate evening of live music. The program features arrangements of Coldplay favorites including Clocks, Something Just Like This, Adventure of a Lifetime, Fix You, The Scientist, Viva la Vida, and A Sky Full of Stars, alongside Imagine Dragons hits such as Radioactive, Natural, Next to Me, Follow You, Bad Liar, and Believer. The performance runs 60 minutes, with doors opening 45 minutes beforehand and no entry once the show begins. The venue is ADA compliant. Seating is assigned on a first come first served basis within each zone. The event is open to ages 8 and up, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Multiple showtimes are available.

The Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah is presented as a concentrated celebration of hope, tracing a journey from prophetic yearning to the joy of Christ’s birth. Beginning with a message of comfort, the program moves through passages of darkness, wonder, and jubilant praise, revealing the work’s dramatic and theological clarity. Heard in this focused format, the music invites contemplation of the Incarnation and then builds to the triumphant Hallelujah Chorus. Sponsored by AdventHealth Ocala.

Runners from across North Central Florida head to Florida Horse Park in Ocala for a Thanksgiving-themed 5K that blends seasonal spirit with family fun and festive swag. The event welcomes runners, walkers, and families, and features a scenic course through the park. Packet pickup is available ahead of race day at The Running Elements in Ocala, with an additional pickup option on the morning of the event. Registration includes a long sleeve race shirt, a Go and Gobble themed bib, and a custom finisher medal. Awards honor the top three finishers in five year age groups starting at 1–9 and continuing through 80+, plus overall male and female winners and first Masters (40+), Grand Masters (50+), Senior Grand Masters (60+), and Veteran Masters (70+). It is a festive choice for those in Ocala, Gainesville, The Villages, and nearby communities.

This session offers Earth Dog practice in Ocala. A $5 donation is requested and will go toward rosettes for the tests. Attendees should review the premium for directions. Full Earth Dog tests are planned, and an AKC Earth Dog seminar will follow on the Monday after the tests for $25, with lunch provided.

An all Pokemon festival debuts at the Hilton Ocala, bringing family-friendly fun for fans of every age. The event features appearances by voice actors, a vendor area, showcases from local artists, trading card game activities, and video gaming, plus more to explore. Set in Ocala, this celebration focuses on the world of Pokemon.

Enjoy festive music with hot chocolate and the company of family and friends as the OSO performs with members of the Ocala Youth Symphony at a free community concert beneath the oaks of Tuscawilla Park in Ocala. This annual celebration fills the park with joyful sounds. Bring a blanket or a chair for comfortable seating.

The Florida Competition Paddlers Association opens its 2027 paddling season with the 52nd Silver River Race at Ray Wayside Park in Silver Springs. All paddle craft are welcome, with options for both a short course and a longer route. Entry is free, though the park collects a $7 day-use fee per vehicle. Racing starts from the boat basin at Ray Wayside Park near where State Road 40 meets the Ocklawaha River. Short course participants turn left on exiting the basin, travel roughly a half mile downstream past the confluence to the Highway 40 bridge, then reverse course to head back up the Silver River, continue past the basin entrance, loop the first island, and return to the basin for approximately 5 miles total. Long course paddlers turn right from the basin, go upstream around Monkey Island, then head back to finish a route of about 9.1 miles. Expect clear water and a steady current a little over one mile per hour, with frequent sightings of alligators, turtles, fish, and abundant birdlife... sometimes even the local monkeys. The river is popular, so you may encounter recreational paddlers and a few motorboats, and the waterway is no wake throughout. Ray Wayside Park offers restrooms, two boat ramps, and a hand launch. Unload in the staging area near the hand launch before parking. Avoid spaces reserved for vehicles with trailers to prevent fines, and use overflow parking across the grass to the west or outside the park if needed, keeping in mind the day-use fee still applies. On-site registration is required for all competitors. After the race, FCPA plans a luncheon, annual meeting, and 2026 awards presentation, with details to be announced.

The annual OMCAR Field Fest brings a family focused cornhole tournament, a wide range of vendors, crafts, yard sales, music, and food. Santa plans to visit. Details for vendors will be shared soon through S&G Events. Sponsorship packets are available by emailing Rhonda Kincaid at kincaid.rhonda@mcarc.com. It is promoted as one of the year’s largest events.

Bam Margera will appear at Ocala Skate Park for a free public event presented in partnership with Ocala Skate Shop. He will be signing at the Ocala Skate Shop booth. A limited run of 120 special skateboard decks and T-shirts will be sold exclusively at the event. Further details will be announced.

A symphonic celebration of the season brings together favorite holiday songs and sparkling pops selections, performed by the orchestra in full force. Maestro Wardell and the Ocala Symphony musicians shape an experience filled with warmth, humor, and heart, offering fresh takes on traditional carols and well-loved winter tunes. Expect rich arrangements, chances to sing along, and a journey that flows from quiet reflection to joyful high points. Welcoming to families, devoted patrons, and newcomers, this concert stands as a cherished local tradition that sets the holiday mood with color, charm, and cheer.

PACWEST BARREL RACING at Ocala Livestock Pavillion offers flexible participation, allowing riders to compete for one, two, or three days. Competitors can enter once and roll over to sidepots if added, and they can also be eligible for average awards. Riders may choose to ride in the first 100, select which nights to stay, and arrange dry camping or RV hookups. The grounds feature a bathhouse, along with vendors and food trucks. Pre entry is available online, and late entries are accepted at the show with no late fees. Payment at the show is cash only. Rodeo attire with a hat or helmet is required, or participants can purchase a tee shirt at the office and opt out of full rodeo attire. PW tee shirts may be worn at future events. There is a fine if a hat comes off in the arena. Segways and other motorized scooters are not allowed in barns, stands, or vendor areas, and all dogs must be leashed at all times. For questions, text 904-545-4511.

In Ocala, Florida, this holiday musical gala and fundraiser offers an elegant, uplifting evening centered on purpose and community. Guests can expect a purple-themed celebration accented with gold, a refined catered dinner, live musical performances, and inspiring dance, all crafted to create a memorable experience focused on hope and healing. Proceeds support the War Cry 4 Peace Gun Violence Prevention Initiative, which empowers youth, strengthens families, and brings support to communities impacted by violence. Attendance is limited to 300 paid registrations and closes once capacity is reached, and the previous year reached full capacity.

Classic Albums Live presents Madonna’s The Immaculate Collection performed with meticulous attention to the original recordings, track by track. The show follows the series format. The first set features the album played in full, then a second set highlights the artist’s greatest hits. A lineup of elite musicians, with experience recording and performing alongside notable rock and pop artists, anchors the production. Founder Craig Martin shares that four vocalists will be featured to capture Madonna’s wide vocal range, from playful to dramatic, with a cinematic feel supported by prominent keyboards and synths.

At Citizens Circle in downtown Ocala, the first holiday market from Downtown Vintage Market brings together more than 50 vendors featuring vintage finds and handmade goods, along with mobile food vendors, desserts, and live musical entertainment. The event welcomes families and pets, and restrooms are available on site. Free parking is available in the adjacent garage, in lots by City Hall, and on surrounding streets. For vendor inquiries, email Kayla at downtownvintagemarket.ocala@gmail.com. Applications will open.

Ocala Downtown Market in Ocala hosts a festive holiday edition of Girls Night Out, transforming the space into a lively night market for last-minute gifts, stocking stuffers, and well-deserved treats. Nearly 100 women-owned businesses from across Central Florida will showcase boutique fashion, handcrafted jewelry, home decor, sweet bites, and luxurious body care. DJ Rae Bae keeps the energy high with uplifting hits and seasonal favorites, while a complimentary photo booth by Legacy Rhythm Entertainment offers a fun way to capture the moment. Guests can enter raffle drawings for prizes and enjoy dinner from local food trucks along with cocktails, mocktails, festive beverages, desserts, and holiday-inspired goodies. On-site extras include permanent jewelry, fairy hair, chair massages, hat bars, and henna. It is a welcoming way to support local women entrepreneurs, discover unique finds, and savor the spirit of the season. Admission is free and the event takes place rain or shine.

In Ocala, The Dinner Detective True Crime Murder Mystery Dinner Show invites guests to investigate a comedic whodunit while enjoying dinner. The story plays out live from start to finish, and the performers mingle with the crowd as fellow diners, so the perpetrator could be sitting among you. Clues and twists spark conversation as the case unfolds, and you might even be singled out as a suspect. Geared toward adults, this interactive, social night blends humor with spontaneous, unscripted moments. The Dinner Detective has staged these productions around the country since 2004, offering an evening filled with intrigue and laughs.

Round two of the Vendetta Summoner Skirmish is on the schedule. Entry is $15.

Celebrate the season with a heartfelt tribute to Michael Bublé, led by vocalist Anthony Bernasconi with a lively big band backdrop. Timeless holiday favorites are reimagined with smooth, jazzy flair that captures Bublé’s elegance and festive spirit. Enjoy an evening full of joy and nostalgic warmth, perfect for the whole family and rich with holiday cheer.

Experience a guided drumming circle at Your Phoenix is Rising that uses rhythm to ease stress, restore balance, and connect with your inner beat. Designed for both beginners and experienced drummers, the session fosters healing, creativity, and a strong sense of community through shared sound. Skilled facilitators lead participants in exploring the therapeutic effects of rhythm and connection, encouraging self expression, clarity, and emotional well-being. The atmosphere supports renewal and peace, with space for curiosity and personal growth.