Ocala Gazette Events Calendar - Ocala Gazette (2024)

This six-week session offer potters of all skill levels a chance to practice and develop new skills and techniques in wheel throwing through fun and functional ceramic projects such as serving sets, vases, or your own creative expressions. $210 for Appleton members; $245 for nonmembers. Fee includes 25 pounds of clay, glazes, and firing.

Join us downtown on Sunday, April 28 for changes in latitude and attitude as Ocala Civic Theatre presentsJimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritaville Block Party! General tickets to the block party are $45. VIP tickets are $65 and include the front row section for the concert, a separate bar, separate restrooms, and access to a VIP […]

The musicalJimmy Buffett’s Escape to Margaritavilleis live on stage May 2-19 at Ocala Civic Theatre.Tickets go on sale April 1 at $30 for adults and $15 for ages 18 and younger.

Prolific jazz musician Kenny G comes to Ocala to play a medley of hit songs and tracks from his new album Innocence, his 20th studio album. In addition to original music, Kenny brings unique reworks of many recognizable songs, among them: “Rock-a-Bye Baby”, “Over the Rainbow”, and Frederic Chopin’s “Nocturne Op. 9”. For tickets, visit […]

Learn from the instructors about the Senior Learners Summer Term classes at their free kick-off party! The event will be offered both in person and on Zoom.The in-person portion will be at the College of Central Florida, Building 20, Room 107. Guests will be provided with snacks and refreshments. For more information and how to […]

The last First Friday until September. Come visit the Downtown Square to check out a huge variety of art displays, local creators, arts and crafts and other family activities, live music, and more. This event is free and open to the public. Weather permitting. Visit ocalamarion.com/events/first-friday-art-walk/ for more information.

The City of Ocala in partnership with, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission, Juneteenth Celebration Committee, and Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) is excited to be working on the 2024 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series. This will be our 8thyear celebrating the series. The series is sponsored in part by the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt […]

Gabi Sullivan, Water Resource Coordinator for the City of Ocala, leads a presentation on the importance of water conservation. This event is free to attend for both members and non-members as part of Free First Saturday activities. For more information, visit www.appletonmuseum.org/events/connecting-your-water/

Join Festivals of Speed to celebrate the 150th Running of the Kentucky Derby, with 200+ exotic, classic, muscle cars, motorcycles and luxury brands. The WEC hotel features retail space, restaurants, craft co*cktail bars and more. Cars will be displayed in front of the hotel on pavers in the grand plaza. Join the fun and wear […]

WEC is hosting its annual Hat Party to celebrate this year's "running of the roses." The Kentucky Derby celebrates its 150th anniversary, a major milestone for the world's most pre-eminent horse race. WEC has an entire day of festivities planned. The Hat Party is scheduled to begin at 5 PM. Guests will be treated to […]

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Normally meets the second Wednesday of the month; Dunnellon agendas, minutes and video available at dunnellon.org/89/Agendas-Minutes

The City of Ocala in partnership with, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission, Juneteenth Celebration Committee, and Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) is excited to be working on the 2024 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series. This will be our 8thyear celebrating the series. The series is sponsored in part by the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt […]

The annual Dock Jumping tournament is a two-day event for dogs and their handlers to compete in a variety of jumping competitions. The Ocala Dog Ranch wishes “May the distance be with you” as competitors will need a mixture of speed and dexterity to be successful. For more information on the competition events, as well […]

Celebration Church in Belleview is hosting an addiction awareness and prevention event. Substance abuse and other forms of addiction will be addressed, and people who lost their lives will be memorialized. In addition to people seeking help, the event will be open to everyone, with music, food, activities for kids, and a raffle drawing. Business […]

Marion CountyRoseSociety will hold its 2024 Festival ofRoses on Saturday, May 11, 10am-4pm, at Ft. King Presbyterian Church, 13 NE 36th Ave., Ocala 34470. Admission is free. Anyone who grows and lovesroses is invited, as are those who would like to learn aboutroses. A Consulting Rosarian at the Q&A Booth will answer questions about growingroses […]

Eliot Kleinberg spent more than four decades as a reporter, including more than 33 years atThe Palm Beach Post. In addition to covering local news, he wrote extensively about Florida and its history. He produced two history columns and more than a dozen books about the state. He also runs a blog on bad writing […]

Festivities include speakers, silent auction, live music, and dinner and dessert. Entrees will feature both meat and vegan options. Proceeds from the event will be used to support Democratic Party activities and candidates, help register voters and get out the vote in 2024. Individual dinner tickets are $100. Additional details about table sponsorship, silent auction, […]

Celebrate Mother’s Day with the Ocala Symphony Orchestra as they present their annual Symphony Under the Stars. Maestro Matthew Wardell leads the orchestra as they play an array of songs. From orchestral classics to themes from hit movies and heart-warming melodies, the set list is sure to excite the crowd. Following the concert is a […]

Usually meets on the second Monday of the month. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior; agendas, minutes and video available from ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

A special screening of “Travis: A Soldier’s Story,” telling the story of Travis Mills, the Ocala native who incredibly survived an IED explosion after suffering major injuries to all four of his limbs, resulting in their amputation. Since then, he’s worked as an advocate for veterans suffering from PTSD and other injuries, founding the Travis […]

The City of Ocala in partnership with, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Commission, Juneteenth Celebration Committee, and Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA) is excited to be working on the 2024 Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series. This will be our 8thyear celebrating the series. The series is sponsored in part by the Mortimer & Mimi Levitt […]

Wildflowers is a tribute band to a Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, paying homage to the legendary Florida rock act. This show features performances of hits like “American Girl,” “Free Fallin’,” and “Don’t Do Me Like That.”. The show is meant to take you back to experience some of the best from the era of […]

Bring your preschoolers and introduce them to the world of art in this a special class for toddlers and parents, with a guided tour of the museum and fun arts-and-crafts activities. To register, visit appletonmuseum.org/education/museum-me-pre-k-program-9.

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at belleviewfl.org/200/Agendas-Minutes

You won’t want to miss this LIVE stand up comedy event featuring three talented and hilarious comics! Law Smith, Dan Weeks and William Sloan will perform on the beautiful and historic Marion Theatre stage for one night only! Visit https://www.reillyartscenter.com/events/the-marion-theatre-presents-sit-down-for-stand-up/ for more.

Get ready to be enchanted by the classic ballet comedy of Coppélia, where magic meets mastery on stage. Join the academy's celebration of grace, laughter and the captivating girl with doll-like eyes. There are two shows, a matinee at 2 p.m. and an evening performance at 5:30 p.m. For tickets, visit couerballetacademy.com

This summer program is designed to help children who struggle with learning disabilities, such as slow reading, dyslexia, ADHD/ADD, and more. Pricing begins at $200 per week for half-day sessions and $250 per week for full-day sessions. For more information, visit https://themorriscenter.com/ or call (352) 332-2629.

Experience India in an evening with a dinner theater performance brought to you by The Villages Asian American Club and The Indian Cultural & Education Center of Gainesville. There will be a selection of Indian food prepared by the Kebab House in Gainesville. Guests will be able to have henna pained on their arms and […]

v On the first Saturday of each month, the Appleton Art Museum hosts a free day of admission to see special exhibitions, permanent collections, and art made in the Artspace. One of the highlights of the June 1 event is a talk by artist Margaret Ross Tolbert at 11 a.m. Her exhibit, "Water’s Margins”, is […]

Dogs and their handlers will have a chance to compete in a variety of unique games, each designed to test the dog’s ability to swim, leap, or catch. Each game entered is $22, and day of entries are $25 per event. To register or learn more, visit ocaladogranch.com/home/the-pool-dock-jumping/dock-jumping-tournaments.

Guests 21+ can sample from a menu of mimosas and mingle with other guests at this event in the NOMA Black Box. A DJ will be on site. General admission tickets include a voucher for one free mimosa, and VIP tickets include vouchers for three, along with a special event t-shirt. For more information and […]

The Barbergators return for a rousing rendition of timeless doo-wop and pop. Since 1973, this Gainesville-based barbershop quartet has been entertaining audiences and brining “harmony” to the community. Tickets are $10 for kids and $25 for adults. Go to bit.ly/4dWvyB7 to learn more.

Half day camps are available throughout the summer for aspiring young artists ages 5 to 17. Professional artists and educators will introduce kids to unique styles and techniques, art history, and the collections of works on display at the Appleton. Supplies and materials are included. To register, visit appletonmuseum.org/2024-summer-art-camp/ for more information.

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The commission the first and third Tuesday of the month. Belleview government agendas, minutes and video are available at belleviewfl.org/200/Agendas-Minutes

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County will be hosting a hands-only CPR class in Ocala. The class will be held from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on June 5, 2024, at the Florida Department of Health in Marion County at 1801 SE 32 Ave. To learn more about the class, contact Community Health […]

Circle of Red is Go Red for Women’s annual giving society. Manal Fakhoury and Jane Moerlie will co-chair the local Circle of Red society this year. The signing event will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 3110 SE 17thCourt, Ocala. Those who join the Circle of Red will attend special events and VIP […]

The country singer will perform an intimate acoustic show. Debuting with the album “Did I Shave My Legs for This,” which peaked at number 10 on the US Billboard 200 in 1997 and one of highest performing country records of the ‘90s, Carter has been a revolutionary figure for women in country music. She’s now […]

Performing arts camps for students ages 6 to 17. Students are separated into two age groups: 9 to 17 (Arts for All) and 6 to 8 (Arts for All Too). Students in the older group must have auditioned previously. Arts for All dates: June 10 to July 21 Arts for All Too dates: June 8 […]

Named “The Best New Impressionist” by the “New York Times,” Fischer’s comedy has been featured on “The Late Show” with Stephen Colbert and “Last Week Tonight” with John Oliver. He’s also been a headlining performer at the NY Comedy Festival and is a frequent guest at the famous Comedy Cellar. Based in New York, Fischer […]

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

Usually meets on the second Monday of the month. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior; agendas, minutes and video available from ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Normally meets the second Wednesday of the month; Dunnellon agendas, minutes and video available at dunnellon.org/89/Agendas-Minutes

Dunnellon agendas, minutes and video are available at dunnellon.org/government/agendas-minutes

Presented by The Sircle Inc., this black-tie gala celebrates the past, present, and future of African Americans. Featuring keynote speaker Rev. Dr. Joy L. Gallmon, former pastor at St. Paul AME Church, along with music by DJ Tony and performances by Orlando-based dance troupe Be Heard Through Movement. Three high school seniors will be awarded […]

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at belleviewfl.org/200/Agendas-Minutes

Even though he appears as a bootleg whisky maker on the Discovery Channel series “Moonshiners,” Beaz style of comedy is good for the whole family. Beaz is a performing comedian currently touring the nation on his “Official Bootleg Tour.” The Alabama native and southern “everyman” is based in Nashville and performs regularly at the Grand […]

Get ready for a paw-some fun at the Ocala Pet Palooza! Expect thrilling pet parades, fun contests, dynamic agility courses, and cool prizes. Unleash the fun with a variety of pet products and adoption chances. A must-visit event for every pet enthusiast! For more information, visit https://www.bmgevents.com/ocalapet.html.

Thespians are wanted for a variety of roles at Ocala Civic Theatre’s upcoming production of “Cinderella.” The classic fairy tale has been adapted many times in film, television, literature and more. OCT’s production is a re-imagining of the 1957 musical written by Rodgers & Hammerstein, the duo behind many famous Broadway musicals. For more information, […]

There are limited spots open for kids to participate in the Brick City Odyssey Summer Camp. This new base camp offers exciting trips to nearby springs, parks, and attractions. The camp, hosted by Marion County Parks & Recreation allows campers to unleash their creativity in arts and crafts sessions. They can also bond over recreational […]

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

This exhibit features artwork from 64 Marion Cultural Alliance member artists selected to display pieces depicting the summer season's enchanting ambiance. The exhibit includes a diverse range of art forms, from colorful landscapes to dreamy beach scenes, capturing the essence of the season. Learn more at mcaocala.org.

Celebrate the Fourth of July with a patriotic-themed show by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. A tribute to veterans, the show will feature classic American music and the stylings of John Phillip Sousa, composer of many American military marches. Visit reillyartscenter.com/events/red-white-and-oso-blue-a-salute-to-independence to learn more.

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

Usually meets on the second Monday of the month. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior; agendas, minutes and video available from ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Normally meets the second Wednesday of the month; Dunnellon agendas, minutes and video available at dunnellon.org/89/Agendas-Minutes

Support Forest Methodist Church and Project Hope with this benefit and bake sale. Tickets are on sale to enjoy a dinner of Polynesian pork with pineapple red pepper fried rice, with a drink included. Guests can opt to instead donate their entrée value to Project Hope to help women and children experiencing homelessness. Bakes goods […]

Appleton members are invited to attend a special reception event to celebrate the opening of a new art exhibit. "En Pointe: Expressions of Dance in Art" is an exhibit of over 60 pieces and will be on display from June 29-October 6.

Come see a troupe of young performers, ages 9 to 17, in the culmination of their summer theatre camp. Two unique productions will hit the stage. From July 14 to 16, the stylings of Dr. Seuss meet William Shakespeare in “The Seussification of Romeo & Juliet”. From July 19 to 21, the players deliver their […]

Fans of classic rock will have the chance to see the Pink Floyd album “Wish You Were Here” performed live in concert. Tickets can be purchased in-person, at reillyartscenter.com, or by contacting the Reilly Arts Center box office at (352) 351-1606. Box office hours are 10-2, Tuesday through Friday.

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

The committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marion.fl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.

The commission meets in the morning of the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx.

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The council meets in the afternoon each first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx.

Reilly Arts Center hosts a laser light show featuring DJ Tiff and DJ JC playing the very best of Taylor Swift. In additions to lasers, the visual portion features video projection and 3-D special effects. Swifties and non-swifites alike can jam out at this two-hour special presentation of music and visuals. Shows at 5 PM […]

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

The committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marion.fl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx for agenda and minutes.

Bring your toddler to the Appleton Museum and introduce them to the wonderful world of art. This one-hour class begins with story time in the lobby, and then branches out into the museum’s galleries, wrapping up with an opportunity for kids to create their own works of art. Registration is now open. Visit appletonmuseum.org/education/museum-me-pre-k-program-july-23-2024/ to […]

This tournament is an officially sanctioned event by International Dog Sports. Dogs compete in a series of dock jumping events measuring agility, distance, and catching ability. Day-of event signups will be available.

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

Marion County Parks are seeking submissions of photos of local parks and amenities. Activities can include anything outdoors, highlighting the fun natural offerings available for residents, like nature walks, biking, and summer water activities. Simply email photos to parks@marionfl.org for entry.

Splendor, artwork by Lisa Russo, is currently on display until December at SouthState Bank. Join her and fellow art enthusiasts for a special reception on August 1.Refreshments will be provided, along with musical performances by Annabelle Lopiano. Open to the public, no registration required.

Some of the best riders and wranglers from all over the world of all ages, as well as majestic bulls from multiple southeastern stock contractors. Featuring live music, a cornhole tournament, food, and a full bar for guests 21 and older. Tickets start at $15 for presale. Call 352-857-6716 or visit bit.ly/XtremeRodeo2024 for tickets.

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

The commission meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Dave Schlenker, a local author and longtime journalist, will be signing copies of “Columns, Confessions and A Brain Cyst". The book is his second collection of essays and articles from the “Ocala Star-Banner,” “Ocala Style” and the “Ocala Gazette.” In the new book, the noted pundit delves deep into pressing issues, such as Why is […]

Celebrate 15 years of service in this special, free event from Patriot Service Dogs. Hear the story of the organization from its inception to today, with guest speakers and real-life beneficiaries. New dogs graduating into service roles, with demonstrations from animals and their handlers, will be featured. Visit reillyartscenter.com/events for more information.

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

Usually meets on the second Monday of the month. Agendas are usually posted the Thursday prior; agendas, minutes and video available from ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

Guests can enjoy coffee in the morning session, or their favorite adult beverages in the evening, with Ocala Symphony Orchestra conductor Matthew Wardell in the first of this season’s Coffee/co*cktails with the Conductor series. Wardell will preview the upcoming season of shows in an informal, sit-down setting. Visit reillyartscenter.com/events/ for details.

Normally meets the second Wednesday of the month; Dunnellon agendas, minutes and video available at dunnellon.org/89/Agendas-Minutes

The event will include introductions to fall instructors and a description of their class offerings. Refreshments will be served to in-person guests. The kickoff also may be viewed on Zoom. To register for this free event, email info@seniorlearners.org.

Discussing her new solo exhibit “Every Fiber of my Being”, Charlita Rae Whitehead will provide insight into the world of tufting, a form of art that combines weaving and needle embroidery with technological innovation, creating tapestries, looms, and more. No registration required, as it’s free to attend for both members and non-members. For more information, […]

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.

The commission meets in the morning of the first and third Tuesday of the month. Agendas, minutes and video are available at marionfl.legistar.com/calendar.aspx.

The council meets the first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx

The council meets in the afternoon each first and third Tuesday of the month. Ocala government agendas and minutes are available at ocala.legistar.com/calendar.aspx.

Meets in the evening on the first and third Tuesday of the month; Belleview agendas, minutes and video available at belleviewfl.org/200/agendas-minutes.

While the kids at the Scripps National Spelling Bee are sure to impress, come see if your friends can match the F-E-A-T at Ocala’s Adult Spelling Bee. This event benefits Artify Ocala and the Marion County Literacy Council. Admissions are free. Contestant registration is $25. Visit https://www.reillyartscenter.com/events/adult-spelling-bee for more information.

This three-day long event will feature a mobile dock for dog jumping games, rescue group vendors with information on their services and animals available for adoption, food and beverages available on site, and more. In partnership with EPIC Rehab Center, which features rehabilitation facilities for horses, such as boarding, swimming pools, and hyperbaric recovery chambers. […]

Come see Steeln’ Peaches (Allman Brothers Band), Unlimited Devotion (Grateful Dead), and Harper Wynn (The Band) perform in this celebration concert. Commemorating the 51st anniversary of The Summer Jam at Watkins Glen, the 1973 concert was a world record holder for largest concert gathering with nearly 600,000 spectators in attendance. Tickets are on sale now […]

Enjoy invited keynote speaker Rep. Debbie Mucarsel-Powell, a former United States Representative, and other special guest speakers from the Florida legislature. Wearing white is encourage to honor the Suffragist Movement. Proceeds raised will go toward to deserving high school scholarships! For tickets, follow link on ActBlue.

Noted avian photographer Michael Warren has a gallery of his favorite bird photos on display through early September at the Friends of Silver Springs State Park Welcome Center inside the park. Many of the images haveappeared in his weekly "Bird of the Week" feature for the "Ocala Gazette." Entry to the park is $2 per […]

The first step for new development projects, the committee reviews and votes on waiver requests to the Land Development Code, major site plans and subdivision plans. The committee meets weekly on Mondays. See marionfl.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for agendas and minutes.