Ocala Community News

Annual holiday-themed fun run presented by The Gaekwad Family and sponsored by Radical Runs. Join us for a festive run/walk through downtown Ocala before the Christmas Parade begins! Participants receive commemorative t-shirts and medals. Perfect for families and runners of all levels. The run concludes well before the 5:30 PM Ocala Christmas Parade starts. Professional race timing and organization provided by Radical Runs.

Light Up Ocala is a longstanding community tradition to kick off the holidays that attracts thousands to downtown Ocala. This year marks the 41st anniversary! Over 100 vendors including crafts, art and plenty of food options. Live entertainment, interactive kids zone, Junior Sunshine holiday parade with Santa, and the exciting lighting up of downtown Ocala!

Play • Shop • Learn • Adopt! The most epic animal adventure of the year! Features dock diving, costume contests, lure course, and more. Over 100 pet-related vendors, adoption rescue organizations, and activities for pets of every shape and size. Leashed, friendly, vaccinated pets welcome. Indoor event at World Equestrian Center.

Come one, come all to Marion County Parks & Recreation's 7th Annual Carnival! An evening of fall fun with games, candy, music, food trucks, and giveaways. Features hay rides and a petting zoo. Free admission, youth activity armbands $5/child or 5 non-perishable donations.

Twilight adventure Poe-themed evening race through downtown Ocala. This unique literary-inspired 5K combines fitness with culture, featuring Edgar Allan Poe themes and evening atmosphere. Perfect for runners who enjoy something different.

Classic rock legends The Grass Roots perform their greatest hits! With 29 charted singles, 13 gold singles, and 2 gold albums, this legendary group delivers an unforgettable evening of classic rock favorites.