Ocala Community News

The World Equestrian Center's premier 12-week winter series featuring hunter/jumper and dressage competitions. This world-class facility offers climate-controlled indoor arenas, free admission for spectators, restaurants, shopping, and golf cart rentals. Experience top-level equestrian sport in the Horse Capital of the World.

The Grandview Invitational is Florida's Premier Draft Horse Show, bringing together up to 100 one-ton horses for three days of competition at the Florida Horse Park in the Horse Capital of the World. This spectacular event showcases the finest Clydesdales, Belgians, and Percherons from across North America, competing in a variety of hitch classes that demonstrate the power, grace, and beauty of these gentle giants. ## About the Event Created by veteran Clydesdale breeders Karen and Shannon Cobbs, the Grandview Invitational fills a unique niche in Marion County's equestrian scene. "We've shown for 40 years, and it's crazy that we don't have a show here locally, being that it's the Horse Capital of the World. So I said, 'We're doing it,'" Karen Cobbs told the Ocala Star Banner. The Cobbs were inducted into the Clydesdale Breeders of the USA Hall of Fame in 2016, and their dedication to draft horses spans generations. They operate Grandview Clydesdale Farm between Ocala and Dunnellon, one of the largest Clydesdale breeding operations in North America. ## Three-Day Competition Schedule **Thursday, January 29** - Opening day features Opening Ceremonies, Belgian Ladies Cart, Percheron Team, Clydesdale Unicorn, Belgian Four Horse Hitch, Percheron Four Horse Hitch, Clydesdale Four Horse Hitch, and the Men's All Breed Cart Championship. **Friday, January 30** - Competition continues with Percheron Ladies Cart, Clydesdale Team, Belgian Unicorn, Florida's All Breed Six Horse Hitch Championship, Youth Team Class, and the Pee-Wee Cart Class. **Saturday, January 31** - The finale includes Clydesdale Ladies Cart, Belgian Team, Percheron Unicorn, the prestigious Horse Capital of the World All Breed Six Horse Hitch Championship, Youth Cart Class, and All Breed Four Abreast. ## Spectator Experience Visitors can arrive early to tour the stable area and get up close to these majestic animals, gaining appreciation for just how massive these 1,600 to 2,200-pound horses truly are. The show begins with the judge and ringmaster arriving by stagecoach, setting the tone for a day of traditional draft horse pageantry. ## Frequently Asked Questions **Q: What time do gates open?** A: Gates open at 8:00 AM daily, with shows starting at 12:00 PM noon. **Q: What are ticket prices?** A: General Admission is $25 per day for adults or $50 for a 3-day pass. Children ages 2-10 are $10 per day or $20 for a 3-day pass. VIP seating with reserved prime views is $50 per day or $145 for a 3-day pass. Save $10 by purchasing tickets online before the event. **Q: What draft horse breeds compete?** A: Three breeds compete: Clydesdales, Belgians, and Percherons, each known for their distinctive characteristics and impressive size. **Q: What is a "unicorn" class?** A: In draft horse terminology, a unicorn is a three-horse hitch with one horse in front and two behind, all controlled by a single driver. **Q: What is a "four abreast" class?** A: A four abreast features four horses hitched side-by-side, requiring exceptional skill to drive and coordinate. **Q: Can tickets be purchased at the gate?** A: Yes, gate admission is $35 for general admission. Online advance tickets are recommended for $10 savings. **Q: Is camping available?** A: Yes, 4-night camping packages are available ranging from $350-$450, which include 2 adult passes to all three days of the show. **Q: Are there food vendors?** A: Yes, food and beverage vendors are available throughout the event grounds. ## Event History The Grandview Invitational was first held in 2019 and has grown into one of the most anticipated draft horse events in Florida. The invitational draws top hitches from across North America to compete for prestigious titles including Florida's Champion Six Horse Hitch and the Horse Capital of the World Six Horse Hitch Championship.

Ocala Civic Theatre presents Little Shop of Horrors, the beloved musical about a florist shop worker named Seymour whose unrequited feelings for coworker Audrey take an unexpected turn when a mysterious and ravenous plant appears in the shop. This darkly comedic rock musical features a doo-wop score by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, with show-stopping numbers that have delighted audiences worldwide since its off-Broadway debut. Multiple performance dates are available including evening shows and matinees, with a special PlayDate matinee offering on-site childcare. Pre-show cocktail hour "Drinks With the Director" is available on opening night, hosted by Executive & Artistic Director Greg Thompson.

Grammy-winning Texican rock and roll band Los Lonely Boys brings their unique blend of rock, blues, and Tejano music to Ocala. Known for their hit "Heaven," this family band delivers electrifying live performances.

Deadpool star T.J. Miller brings his quirky humor and stand-up comedy to the Marion Theatre. Known for his roles in Silicon Valley and Deadpool, Miller delivers unpredictable and hilarious performances.

World-famous New Orleans jazz ensemble returns to Ocala. For over 60 years, Preservation Hall Jazz Band has been dedicated to honoring and preserving the traditions of New Orleans jazz.