The historic downtown Ocala gazebo, a gathering place for community events and celebrations
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2026-01-215 min readOnly In Ocala Weekly: Symphony, Comedy & Polo Highlight Week of January 21
By Only In Ocala Staff
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Welcome to this week's edition of Only In Ocala! As we roll into the last full week of January, our Horse Capital community has plenty to offer — from world-class equestrian events and live music to networking opportunities and exceptional dining. Here's your guide to making the most of the week ahead.
Named one of TIME's 2024 World's Greatest Places, the World Equestrian Center continues to put Ocala on the global map. This 4,000-acre facility isn't just for equestrian enthusiasts — it's a destination for everyone.
With the Ocala Winter Spectacular running now through March 22, spectators can enjoy free admission to witness championship-level hunter/jumper and dressage competitions. Beyond the arenas, explore seven distinctive restaurants (including Wine Spectator-awarded Stirrups), luxury shopping, and the stunning AAA Four Diamond Equestrian Hotel.
TAKE3 at Reilly Arts Center
Experience a magical musical journey with this dynamic ensemble that blends classical training with contemporary appeal. TAKE3 delivers an unforgettable performance that defies genre boundaries at the Reilly Arts Center Main Theater at 7:30 PM.
Romantic America - Ocala Symphony Subscription Concert
An inspiring evening of American orchestral masterpieces with the Ocala Symphony Orchestra at Reilly Arts Center. Experience the grandeur and emotion of romantic-era compositions from American composers. The concert continues Sunday, January 25.
Masood Boomgaard and Self-Help Singh
When a Demotivational Guru meets a Globe-trotting Comedian, expect unpredictable laughs! Two unique comedic perspectives collide at the Marion Theatre at 7:30 PM.
Ocala Polo Match
Experience the thrill of polo at the Florida Horse Park! Watch top players and horses compete in this exciting equestrian sport from 1:00-2:00 PM. A perfect family afternoon in the Horse Capital of the World.
Ocala Downtown Market
The Ocala Downtown Market opens at 8 AM with over 80 vendors offering farm-fresh produce, artisan goods, handmade crafts, and delicious prepared foods. Kids can enjoy the nearby splash pad while you shop local!
CF International Film Series: Harry Benson - Shoot First
This captivating documentary explores legendary photographer Harry Benson's remarkable career. Part of the College of Central Florida International Film Series at the Appleton Museum of Art from 2:00-4:00 PM. Free for members, included with museum admission.
Looking for exceptional dining? Ivy on the Square delivers authentic Southern cuisine in the heart of downtown. Try their signature crispy chicken, legendary crab cakes (yes, they rival the Chesapeake!), or the unforgettable creole shrimp and grits.
Stay after dinner to discover The Thirsty Cobbler, their hidden speakeasy. Ask for the password on their Facebook page for an authentic 1920s experience with craft cocktails and period ambiance. Located at 53 S Magnolia Ave.
Guy Fieri's Chicken Guy! is now open at the Walmart Supercenter on SW 19th Avenue Road! Featuring signature brined chicken tenders, bold sandwiches, and an impressive array of house-made sauces. Open daily 10 AM - 10 PM.
The Appleton Museum of Art houses over 24,000 extraordinary art objects spanning 3,000 years of human creativity. Current exhibitions include "What If Eye" featuring Ummarid "Tony" Eitharong and "The Human Pulse" with photography by John Elliott. Don't miss the interactive ArtSpace — perfect for families!
Mark your calendars for these upcoming highlights:
- Los Lonely Boys (January 30) - Grammy-winning Texican rock and roll at Reilly Arts Center
- T.J. Miller (January 31) - Deadpool star brings stand-up comedy to the Marion Theatre
- The Beat Goes On - Cher Tribute (January 31) - Broadway-style show at Circle Square Cultural Center
- Grandview Invitational (January 29 - February 1) - Draft horse competition at Florida Horse Park
Mark your calendars for March 7, 2026! The 12th Annual Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival returns to the McPherson Complex with over 235 vendors, live music, a kid's zone with petting zoo, BMX stunt shows, and fresh strawberries from Plant City. Proceeds support Habitat for Humanity of Marion County's mission to address our region's affordable housing needs.
Whether you're a beginner or competitive runner, the Ocala Distance Project offers comprehensive training programs for all levels. With membership options from one to three sessions per week, plus elite personalized training, there's a spot for every runner in our community.
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Have an event to share or know a business we should feature? Visit OnlyInOcala.com to submit events, suggest businesses for our directory, or share community updates. Together, we're building a stronger, more connected Ocala.
Featured Business: World Equestrian Center
Named one of TIME's 2024 World's Greatest Places, the World Equestrian Center continues to put Ocala on the global map. This 4,000-acre facility isn't just for equestrian enthusiasts — it's a destination for everyone.
With the Ocala Winter Spectacular running now through March 22, spectators can enjoy free admission to witness championship-level hunter/jumper and dressage competitions. Beyond the arenas, explore seven distinctive restaurants (including Wine Spectator-awarded Stirrups), luxury shopping, and the stunning AAA Four Diamond Equestrian Hotel.
This Week's Events
Thursday, January 22
TAKE3 at Reilly Arts Center
Experience a magical musical journey with this dynamic ensemble that blends classical training with contemporary appeal. TAKE3 delivers an unforgettable performance that defies genre boundaries at the Reilly Arts Center Main Theater at 7:30 PM.
Saturday, January 24
Romantic America - Ocala Symphony Subscription Concert
An inspiring evening of American orchestral masterpieces with the Ocala Symphony Orchestra at Reilly Arts Center. Experience the grandeur and emotion of romantic-era compositions from American composers. The concert continues Sunday, January 25.
Masood Boomgaard and Self-Help Singh
When a Demotivational Guru meets a Globe-trotting Comedian, expect unpredictable laughs! Two unique comedic perspectives collide at the Marion Theatre at 7:30 PM.
Sunday, January 25
Ocala Polo Match
Experience the thrill of polo at the Florida Horse Park! Watch top players and horses compete in this exciting equestrian sport from 1:00-2:00 PM. A perfect family afternoon in the Horse Capital of the World.
Ocala Downtown Market
The Ocala Downtown Market opens at 8 AM with over 80 vendors offering farm-fresh produce, artisan goods, handmade crafts, and delicious prepared foods. Kids can enjoy the nearby splash pad while you shop local!
Tuesday, January 27
CF International Film Series: Harry Benson - Shoot First
This captivating documentary explores legendary photographer Harry Benson's remarkable career. Part of the College of Central Florida International Film Series at the Appleton Museum of Art from 2:00-4:00 PM. Free for members, included with museum admission.
Local Business Spotlights
Ivy on the Square
Looking for exceptional dining? Ivy on the Square delivers authentic Southern cuisine in the heart of downtown. Try their signature crispy chicken, legendary crab cakes (yes, they rival the Chesapeake!), or the unforgettable creole shrimp and grits.
Stay after dinner to discover The Thirsty Cobbler, their hidden speakeasy. Ask for the password on their Facebook page for an authentic 1920s experience with craft cocktails and period ambiance. Located at 53 S Magnolia Ave.
Chicken Guy!
Guy Fieri's Chicken Guy! is now open at the Walmart Supercenter on SW 19th Avenue Road! Featuring signature brined chicken tenders, bold sandwiches, and an impressive array of house-made sauces. Open daily 10 AM - 10 PM.
Appleton Museum of Art
The Appleton Museum of Art houses over 24,000 extraordinary art objects spanning 3,000 years of human creativity. Current exhibitions include "What If Eye" featuring Ummarid "Tony" Eitharong and "The Human Pulse" with photography by John Elliott. Don't miss the interactive ArtSpace — perfect for families!
Looking Ahead
Mark your calendars for these upcoming highlights:
- Los Lonely Boys (January 30) - Grammy-winning Texican rock and roll at Reilly Arts Center
- T.J. Miller (January 31) - Deadpool star brings stand-up comedy to the Marion Theatre
- The Beat Goes On - Cher Tribute (January 31) - Broadway-style show at Circle Square Cultural Center
- Grandview Invitational (January 29 - February 1) - Draft horse competition at Florida Horse Park
Community News
Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival Approaching
Mark your calendars for March 7, 2026! The 12th Annual Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival returns to the McPherson Complex with over 235 vendors, live music, a kid's zone with petting zoo, BMX stunt shows, and fresh strawberries from Plant City. Proceeds support Habitat for Humanity of Marion County's mission to address our region's affordable housing needs.
Get Active with Ocala Distance Project
Whether you're a beginner or competitive runner, the Ocala Distance Project offers comprehensive training programs for all levels. With membership options from one to three sessions per week, plus elite personalized training, there's a spot for every runner in our community.
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Have an event to share or know a business we should feature? Visit OnlyInOcala.com to submit events, suggest businesses for our directory, or share community updates. Together, we're building a stronger, more connected Ocala.
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