What's Happening in Ocala, Florida Today?
Only In Ocala publishes daily local news covering Marion County, Florida including community updates, business developments, sports, government meetings, and events. News articles are written by local journalists and updated multiple times daily serving Ocala and the Horse Capital of the World.
West Port Senior Luke Lombardo Wins Mother's Day 5K in 15:46 as Christopher Taylor Tightens His Grip on Run Ocala Series
Luke Lombardo — the West Port senior heading to Furman University in the fall on an academic scholarship — crossed the Mother's Day 5K finish line first in 15:46. Christopher Taylor took second in 17:11 to extend his lead in the Run Ocala Race Series, and Gosia Hightower of Belleview was top female overall in 21:47.
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Cogent Bank Ocala Cup 5K Raises $25,000 for Charity, Crowns New Champions Around Citizens' Circle
The second-annual Cogent Bank Ocala Cup 5K closed out April 25 with 235 finishers, $25,000 raised for various local charities, and a 17-year-old Ocala runner crossing the line first. Cogent Bank EVP Nick Blaser confirmed the fundraising total — up from $20,000 in 2025 — after a sunset race that lapped historic downtown Ocala.
Hospice of Marion County Foundation Names Rochelle Kelly Wristen as Executive Director
Hospice of Marion County Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Empath Hospice of Marion County, has named Rochelle Kelly Wristen as its new Executive Director. Wristen brings more than two decades of senior hospice and philanthropy leadership to Ocala.
Sunrise to Sunset: Two Ocala 5Ks, One Day, One Medal Most Runners Will Never Earn
On Saturday, April 25, Ocala runs from dawn to dusk. Kimberly's Race Against Child Abuse kicks off at 8 AM in Calesa Township; the second-annual Cogent Bank Ocala Cup 5K closes Citizens' Circle ten hours later at 6 PM. Finish both and the exclusive Sunrise to Sunset medal is yours.
Rainbow Springs Now Requires Reservations Starting April 29
Remember when you could just show up at Rainbow Springs? Those days are over. Starting April 29, reservations will be required to enter the headsprings — a sign of just how much Marion County has grown.
12,000 Oysters Gone in 3 Hours: Midtown Station's 2nd Annual Oyster Fest Overwhelms Ocala
Midtown Station's 2nd Annual Oyster Fest on April 18 blew past all expectations — 12,000 oysters sold out in just three hours, leaving organizers stunned and already planning to double down for 2027.
59th Annual Ocala Arts Festival Returns to Downtown October 24-25, 2026
The 59th Annual Ocala Arts Festival, presented by Fine Arts For Ocala, returns to downtown Ocala October 24-25, 2026 with more than 155 juried artists. The two-day free event draws over 30,000 visitors annually.
McIntosh 1890s Festival Saved for 2026: Community Volunteers Keep Tradition Alive
The McIntosh 1890s Festival returns Saturday, October 17, 2026 after community volunteers stepped up to save the longtime Marion County tradition from cancellation. The annual event features 280+ craft vendors, live music, and period-style demonstrations in the historic town.
Light Up Ocala 2026: Downtown Holiday Tradition Returns November 21
Light Up Ocala 2026 lights up the Historic Downtown Square on Saturday, November 21, 2026 from 3-8 PM. The annual free holiday tradition draws 100,000+ visitors for the tree lighting, Junior Sunshine Parade, Santa visit, and 100+ vendors.
Ocala Symphony Orchestra to Perform Patriotic Concert for America's 250th
The Ocala Symphony Orchestra presents Red, White & OSO Blue: 250 Years on June 27-28, 2026 at the Reilly Arts Center — a special patriotic concert celebrating America's semiquincentennial with two performances of beloved American orchestral works.
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