Ocala Local Events Guide

Yes, the Ocala area hosts boat shows and marine expos, with the Florida Horse Park and other large venues serving as host locations. These shows typically feature boat dealers, marine accessories, fishing gear, kayaks, and water sports equipment. Given Marion County proximity to numerous springs, rivers, and lakes, boating is a popular local activity. Check our events calendar for upcoming boat show dates.

Las Micheladas is a popular food and beverage concept in the Ocala area serving micheladas, a traditional Mexican beer cocktail made with lime juice, assorted sauces, spices, and chili peppers served in a salt and chili-rimmed glass. The concept has gained popularity in Ocala reflecting the growing Latino community and diverse food culture in Marion County. Look for Las Micheladas at local food events, markets, and dedicated locations.

Ocala hosts numerous annual festivals including Light Up Ocala (downtown holiday celebration), Ocala Arts Festival, Brick City Bike Nights, McIntosh 1890s Festival, the annual Christmas Parade, First Friday Art Walk (monthly downtown event), Tuscawilla Art Park events, Rock the Country music festival, Ocala Geek Fest, local car shows, and seasonal events at the World Equestrian Center. The events calendar stays active year-round.

The best place to find current Ocala events is our events calendar at onlyinocala.com/events, which lists upcoming events throughout Marion County. Weekend events commonly include live music at downtown venues, farmers markets, equestrian shows at the World Equestrian Center, performances at the Reilly Arts Center, outdoor activities at state parks, and community events at various locations.

Ocala hosts a variety of food-related events throughout the year including food truck rallies, the Ocala Culinary Festival, barbecue competitions, chili cook-offs, international food festivals celebrating the diverse community, Las Micheladas and other cultural food events, and restaurant week promotions. The downtown Ocala square frequently hosts food-focused events and seasonal celebrations.