Belleview Christmas Parade

Local athletes compete strong against elite competition as national powerhouses visit Marion County

Elite distance running training and coaching program based in <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala, Florida</a>, dedicated to developing runners of all ages and abilities through comprehensive training, professional coaching, and a supportive community environment. Founded and led by head coach Darrin DeTorres, the Ocala Distance Project combines decades of distance running expertise with modern training methodologies to help athletes achieve their personal goals, from recreational fitness to competitive excellence at state and national levels. Comprehensive training programs cater to diverse runner needs through structured membership levels designed to accommodate varying commitment levels and athletic goals. The Starter membership provides an excellent introduction to organized training with one practice session per week, perfect for beginners or recreational runners seeking structure and community support. Core Training membership offers three weekly practice sessions, providing substantial training volume and coaching interaction for runners serious about improvement and consistent development. Elite Performance membership delivers personalized training plans, advanced coaching techniques, and individualized attention for competitive athletes pursuing racing goals and maximum performance potential. Professional coaching expertise stems from Darrin DeTorres' extensive background in distance running, beginning his own running journey in third grade and continuing through decades of competition, coaching, and race organization throughout Central Florida. This authentic understanding of runner development, training progression, and competitive psychology ensures that coaching methods are grounded in real experience rather than theoretical approaches, providing athletes with practical guidance that translates directly to improved performance and running satisfaction. Coach DeTorres also operates <a href="/businesses/radical-runs" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Radical Runs LLC</a>, Central Florida's premier race timing and event management company, providing comprehensive understanding of both training and competitive racing logistics. Youth development focus demonstrates the program's commitment to building Central Florida's future running community by introducing young athletes to proper training techniques, racing strategy, and the lifelong benefits of distance running participation. Through structured coaching and mentorship, young runners develop not only athletic abilities but also discipline, goal-setting skills, and confidence that benefit all areas of their lives while potentially qualifying for Florida State meets and USATF National competitions. Community building extends beyond individual training to create a supportive network of runners who encourage each other's progress, share training experiences, and participate together in local racing opportunities throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and Central Florida. This community aspect ensures that athletes find motivation, friendship, and accountability within their training group, making the running journey more enjoyable and sustainable over time. Local expertise provides invaluable knowledge of Central Florida running conditions, including optimal training routes through <a href="/parks/silver-springs-state-park" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Silver Springs State Park</a> and other scenic locations, seasonal weather considerations, local racing opportunities, and connections to the broader running community throughout Ocala, Gainesville, and surrounding areas. This local knowledge ensures that training plans and racing strategies are perfectly suited to regional conditions and opportunities. Racing preparation encompasses comprehensive support for athletes pursuing competitive goals, from local 5K races through marathon distances, including technical guidance on pacing strategy, racing tactics, and mental preparation that maximizes race day performance. This racing expertise, combined with professional race timing services through Radical Runs, helps athletes achieve personal records while enjoying the competitive racing experience. Flexible training approach accommodates the diverse schedules and commitments of working adults, students, and families by offering multiple training times and adaptable training plans that fit real-life circumstances while maintaining training effectiveness and progression toward athletic goals. The Ocala Distance Project represents the perfect combination of professional coaching expertise, community support, and local knowledge, creating an environment where runners can achieve their goals while developing lasting friendships and a lifelong appreciation for the sport of distance running in the heart of <a href="/living-in-ocala-florida" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Central Florida</a>.

Ivy on the Square stands as downtown <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala's</a> premier culinary destination and a cornerstone of Southern hospitality, presenting the finest in homemade Southern cooking through meticulously crafted dishes that embody the essence of true Southern culinary tradition. Located at 53 S Magnolia Avenue in the heart of the historic downtown square, this beloved restaurant offers guests a remarkable culinary journey back in time to the heart of the South, where savory dishes prepared with care and tradition using recipes passed down through generations create an authentic dining experience that celebrates the rich heritage of Southern cuisine while providing exceptional service in an inviting atmosphere perfect for memorable dining occasions. Authentic Southern cuisine excellence showcases the restaurant's dedication to presenting traditional Southern cooking at its finest, featuring an impressive menu of comfort food classics including their signature crispy chicken, savory beef and fish specialty dishes, bacon-wrapped dates that tantalize the palate, creole shrimp and grits that capture the essence of coastal Southern cooking, and renowned crab cakes that have earned recognition as among the finest available, even compared to those from the legendary Chesapeake Bay region. Each dish reflects the restaurant's commitment to using time-honored recipes and cooking techniques that honor the culinary traditions of the American South. Hidden speakeasy experience transports guests to the roaring twenties through The Thirsty Cobbler, a secret speakeasy tucked away behind the main restaurant that captures the spirit of the Prohibition era with intimate ambiance, vintage charm, and an atmosphere that truly embodies the clandestine excitement of 1920s nightlife. Accessed through a side door requiring a whispered password posted on the restaurant's Facebook page, this exclusive experience opens at 8:30 PM for those seeking craft cocktails, specialty martinis, traditional Prohibition-era libations, and an authentic speakeasy atmosphere complete with period music and decor that creates an unforgettable evening of entertainment. Craft beverage program encompasses both the main restaurant's impressive selection of cocktails, mocktails, and specialty drinks, plus The Thirsty Cobbler's extensive speakeasy menu featuring original prohibition-themed cocktails that showcase mixology artistry through specialty fusion drinks and traditional recipes from the 1920s era. This comprehensive beverage program ensures that every guest finds the perfect accompaniment to their dining experience, whether seeking a casual dinner drink or an authentic speakeasy cocktail adventure. Prime downtown location at the corner of Fort King Street provides convenient access to historic downtown <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a> attractions while offering outdoor dining options that allow guests to enjoy their meals al fresco just outside the front door, creating perfect opportunities for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant downtown atmosphere. This strategic location makes Ivy on the Square an ideal destination for both locals seeking exceptional dining and visitors exploring the cultural heart of Marion County. Flexible dining schedule accommodates diverse guest preferences through Tuesday-Wednesday hours from 11 AM to 9 PM and extended Thursday-Saturday service from 11 AM to 10 PM, ensuring that both lunch and dinner guests can enjoy the restaurant's offerings while maintaining the intimate, unhurried atmosphere that characterizes exceptional Southern dining. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday, allowing staff to maintain the high standards of preparation and service that distinguish the establishment. Special occasion expertise extends beyond daily dining service to encompass catering capabilities and special event hosting that brings Ivy on the Square's exceptional Southern cuisine and hospitality to private celebrations, corporate events, and community gatherings throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a>. This catering excellence ensures that the restaurant's signature dishes and professional service enhance any special occasion with authentic Southern charm and culinary sophistication. Award-winning recognition includes rankings among Florida Trend's "500 Best Restaurants in Florida" and consistent praise from dining critics and guests who appreciate the restaurant's commitment to authenticity, quality, and exceptional service. These accolades reflect the establishment's success in preserving and presenting genuine Southern culinary traditions while adapting to contemporary dining expectations and maintaining the highest standards of food quality and guest experience. Community engagement demonstrates Ivy on the Square's commitment to downtown Ocala's cultural and economic vitality through active participation in local events, support for community organizations, and contributions to the vibrant restaurant scene that makes historic downtown a destination for residents and visitors seeking authentic Florida dining experiences that celebrate both culinary excellence and regional heritage. Ivy on the Square represents the perfect fusion of authentic Southern cuisine, hidden speakeasy excitement, downtown convenience, and genuine hospitality, where traditional recipes, craft beverages, intimate atmosphere, and exceptional service combine to create an extraordinary dining destination that honors Southern culinary heritage while providing contemporary guests with memorable experiences in the heart of historic downtown Ocala.

Big Hammock Brewery & Bites stands as <a href="/location/downtown-ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">downtown Ocala's</a> premier destination for innovative Asian fusion cuisine paired with exceptional craft beer, representing a unique culinary concept that brings East Asian flavors to the heart of Central Florida's historic downtown district. Located at 103 SE 1st Avenue in a charming side street setting, this locally-owned brewpub celebrates both the natural beauty of <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a> and Silver Springs heritage while delivering an extraordinary dining experience that has earned recognition as one of the region's most innovative restaurants since opening in 2019. Authentic Asian fusion excellence showcases a carefully crafted menu that elevates traditional East Asian dishes through creative interpretation and high-quality ingredients, featuring signature ramen bowls with hearty broths and wheat noodles coupled with expertly prepared meat and vegetables that provide comfort and sophistication in every spoonful. The restaurant's acclaimed bao buns, consistently praised by customers as "absolutely phenomenal," feature perfectly steamed pillowy bread filled with succulent pork belly and complementary flavors that create unforgettable taste experiences. Innovative East Asian specialties include traditional Chinese dishes like expertly prepared pot stickers and the unique cong you bing, a creative scallion pancake filled with tender pulled pork that resembles a quesadilla but delivers distinctly Asian flavors. These innovative interpretations demonstrate the kitchen's commitment to honoring traditional cooking techniques while adapting recipes for contemporary palates and local ingredient availability. Craft beer excellence features 12 carefully curated taps that showcase both Big Hammock's own freshly brewed craft beers and rotating guest selections from distinguished breweries throughout Florida and beyond. The brewery's signature creations, including the popular Meloncholy Watermelon Sour, demonstrate innovative brewing techniques that complement the restaurant's Asian fusion menu while providing unique flavor profiles that appeal to both beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers seeking memorable experiences. Ownership dedication comes from local entrepreneurs Tim and Janice Thomas along with Jason and Emily Delaney, who combine their passion for craft brewing with appreciation for Asian cuisine to create a restaurant concept that serves the Ocala community while attracting visitors from throughout <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> and beyond. Their commitment to quality and innovation has established Big Hammock Brewery & Bites as a cornerstone of downtown Ocala's evolving culinary landscape. Historic downtown setting reflects the restaurant's name, which honors the natural hammocks and pristine environments that have defined Ocala and Silver Springs for over a century, while the interior features photographs celebrating local history and the Timucuan heritage of the area. This connection to local culture creates an authentic atmosphere that enhances the dining experience while educating visitors about Central Florida's rich natural and cultural heritage. Diverse menu offerings extend beyond Asian specialties to include American pub favorites like hot pretzels with beer cheese and expertly crafted pressed sandwiches that provide familiar comfort food options alongside more adventurous Asian fusion selections. This menu diversity ensures that every diner finds appealing options while encouraging culinary exploration and repeat visits from customers seeking both familiar and exotic flavors. Dog-friendly outdoor seating creates a welcoming environment for pet owners who want to enjoy craft beer and innovative cuisine alongside their four-legged companions, while the charming downtown location provides easy pedestrian access and convenient parking for customers exploring Ocala's historic district shops, galleries, and entertainment venues. Community recognition includes outstanding customer reviews with 4.6 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and ranking among Ocala's top restaurants, while the 4.8-star overall rating reflects consistent excellence in food quality, service, and atmosphere. These accolades demonstrate the restaurant's success in creating memorable dining experiences that exceed customer expectations while contributing to downtown Ocala's reputation as a culinary destination. Seasonal beer rotations and menu adaptations ensure that regular customers discover new flavors and experiences throughout the year, while special events and community engagement activities strengthen Big Hammock's role as more than just a restaurant, serving as a gathering place where food, craft beer, and community spirit combine to create lasting memories. Big Hammock Brewery & Bites represents the perfect fusion of innovative Asian cuisine, craft beer excellence, and community hospitality, where authentic flavors, creative interpretations, expertly brewed beers, and genuine local character combine to create downtown Ocala's most distinctive dining destination that honors both culinary tradition and contemporary innovation in the heart of Central Florida's historic downtown district.

Brick City Center for the Arts stands as the cultural heartbeat of historic downtown <a href="/location/ocala" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Ocala</a>, serving as the dynamic home of Marion Cultural Alliance and the city's premier art gallery, where local and regional artists showcase their creative talents through monthly rotating exhibitions that celebrate the vibrant artistic community of <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a>. Located at 23 SW Broadway Street in the heart of the historic downtown district, this versatile cultural venue combines artistic excellence with community engagement, creating an inspiring destination where creativity flourishes and cultural connections are forged through shared appreciation for the visual arts and community spirit. Marion Cultural Alliance legacy spans over two decades of dedicated service to the arts community, established as a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization in 2001 with the inaugural Horse Fever public art project that transformed Ocala into an outdoor gallery celebrating the region's equestrian heritage. Through their unwavering mission to "champion, convene, and create opportunities for artists and arts organizations," MCA has donated over $1.5 million to arts and charitable organizations throughout Ocala and Marion County while establishing a Cultural Endowment fund of $900,000 that ensures long-term support for artistic endeavors and cultural programming. Dynamic exhibition programming features a new art exhibit every 30 days, ensuring that each visit to Brick City Center reveals fresh perspectives and artistic discoveries from talented local and regional artists working across diverse mediums including visual arts, pottery, woodworking, metalwork, paper arts, and innovative mixed-media creations. This rotating exhibition schedule maintains constant excitement and engagement while providing emerging and established artists with valuable exposure and sales opportunities that support their creative careers and artistic development. First Friday Art Walk celebrations transform downtown Ocala into a vibrant cultural destination on the first Friday of each month, with Brick City Center hosting opening receptions starting at 5 PM that bring together artists, collectors, art enthusiasts, and community members for evenings of artistic discovery, social connection, and cultural celebration. These monthly gatherings have become essential community traditions that showcase the depth and diversity of Central Florida's artistic talent while fostering relationships between artists and art lovers. Versatile facility design encompasses both an sophisticated art gallery and a beautifully landscaped courtyard that can be easily transformed to accommodate a variety of performances, professional events, and personal celebrations. This flexibility enables Brick City Center to serve multiple functions beyond traditional gallery exhibitions, hosting everything from intimate concerts and poetry readings through corporate events and private parties that benefit from the inspiring artistic atmosphere and downtown convenience. Comprehensive artist support initiatives through MCA's Cultural Grant Awards program have provided over $310,000 in direct funding to local arts organizations, artists, educators, and school projects, demonstrating a genuine commitment to nurturing artistic talent and expanding cultural opportunities throughout Marion County. These grants enable creative projects that might otherwise lack funding while strengthening the overall arts ecosystem that makes Ocala such a culturally rich community. Accessible cultural programming ensures that art appreciation remains welcoming and inclusive through free gallery admission (unless otherwise specified) and convenient hours Tuesday through Friday from 10 AM to 5 PM, plus Saturdays from 11 AM to 4 PM. This accessibility, combined with the gallery's strategic downtown location, makes it easy for residents, visitors, and tourists to incorporate art appreciation into their downtown Ocala experiences. Community partnership excellence includes collaborative relationships with the City of Ocala Cultural Arts Division and other local organizations that present diverse programming including the monthly First Friday Art Walk, summer block parties featuring art, music, and culinary experiences, and special events like the annual yART Sale that combines artistic discovery with social celebration. Local cultural leadership positions Brick City Center for the Arts as an essential community institution that not only showcases artistic talent but actively cultivates the creative economy that contributes to downtown Ocala's revitalization and cultural identity. Through consistent programming, artist support, and community engagement, the center demonstrates how art galleries can serve as catalysts for broader community development and cultural pride. Brick City Center for the Arts represents the perfect fusion of artistic excellence, community engagement, historic preservation, and cultural leadership, where monthly rotating exhibitions, First Friday celebrations, comprehensive artist support, and genuine commitment to accessibility combine to create an extraordinary cultural destination that enriches lives, supports artists, and strengthens the creative community in the heart of historic downtown Ocala.

Abshier Blueberry Farm represents the authentic agricultural heritage of <a href="/location/marion-county" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Marion County</a> through a family-owned u-pick blueberry operation that has become a cherished seasonal destination for families and blueberry enthusiasts throughout Central Florida. Located in the scenic countryside of <a href="/location/belleview" class="text-blue-600 hover:text-blue-700 underline">Belleview</a>, this working farm offers visitors the opportunity to experience traditional agricultural practices while enjoying the freshest possible blueberries in a peaceful, family-friendly environment that celebrates the natural beauty and agricultural traditions of rural Florida. Seasonal u-pick blueberry experience provides visitors with direct access to the farm's carefully cultivated blueberry bushes during the peak growing season, which typically begins in mid to late April and extends through early summer, allowing families to harvest their own fresh blueberries while enjoying the satisfaction of connecting with their food source in a hands-on agricultural setting. This authentic farm experience offers children and adults alike the opportunity to learn about blueberry cultivation while creating lasting memories in Marion County's beautiful agricultural landscape. Premium fresh blueberries are carefully cultivated using traditional farming methods that prioritize quality and flavor, ensuring that both u-pick visitors and retail customers receive blueberries at peak ripeness and optimal nutritional value. The farm's commitment to quality extends from field cultivation through harvest timing, ensuring that every blueberry meets the high standards that have earned the farm a reputation for excellence throughout the Central Florida agricultural community. Blueberry plants for home cultivation provide local gardeners with the opportunity to establish their own blueberry production through high-quality plants that are specifically suited to Central Florida growing conditions. These plants represent an investment in sustainable home food production while supporting local agriculture and enabling families to enjoy fresh blueberries from their own backyard gardens year after year. Family-friendly farm atmosphere includes picnic areas and peaceful settings that encourage visitors to relax and enjoy the rural tranquility that has become increasingly rare in Central Florida's rapidly developing landscape. This welcoming environment makes the farm an ideal destination for family outings, educational visits, and peaceful retreats from urban life while supporting local agriculture and agricultural tourism. Community connections demonstrate the farm's role as an integral part of Belleview and Marion County's agricultural community, participating in local agricultural networks and contributing to the preservation of farming traditions that have shaped the region's identity and economic foundation for generations. Abshier Blueberry Farm represents authentic agricultural tourism at its finest, where traditional farming methods, family hospitality, premium product quality, and educational opportunities combine to create a unique Central Florida destination that honors the region's agricultural heritage while providing families with memorable experiences and access to the freshest possible local blueberries.