Seasonal Events in Ocala
From spring festivals and summer springs to fall pumpkin patches and holiday celebrations — Ocala has something special every season.
Spring (March - May)
Ocala Arts Festival
Multi-day outdoor arts festival with hundreds of artists and live entertainment downtown.
Strawberry Festival
Fresh strawberry picking, strawberry-themed treats, live music, and family activities.
Easter Events
Easter egg hunts, bunny breakfasts, and spring festivals at parks and venues.
Spring Horse Shows
World Equestrian Center hosts major national and international equestrian competitions.
First Friday Art Walks
Monthly downtown art walks with perfect spring evening weather.
Summer (June - August)
Fourth of July Celebrations
Fireworks displays, parades, concerts, and patriotic events across Marion County.
Springs Season
Peak season at Silver Springs, Rainbow Springs, Juniper Springs, and Alexander Springs.
Summer Camps
Dozens of day camps and overnight camps for kids including sports, arts, nature, and STEM.
Labor Day Events
End-of-summer celebrations, lake parties, and community barbecues.
Free Summer Movie Series
Outdoor movie nights and discounted summer shows at local theaters.
Fall (September - November)
Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes
McKathan Brothers Farm and others offer pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and hay rides.
Oktoberfest
German beer, food, music, and dancing at local venues and downtown celebrations.
Halloween Events
Trunk-or-treat events, haunted houses, ghost tours, and costume parties.
Thanksgiving Events
Turkey trots, community dinners, and holiday food drives throughout Marion County.
Fall Equestrian Season
WEC fall circuit begins with major competitions and social events.
Winter (December - February)
Light Up Ocala
Downtown Ocala transforms with holiday lights, tree lighting ceremony, and festive entertainment.
Christmas Parade
Annual parade through downtown with floats, marching bands, and Santa.
WEC Winter Spectacular
World Equestrian Center holiday village with ice skating, lights, and seasonal shows.
New Year's Eve
Celebrations downtown, at restaurants, and at entertainment venues across Ocala.
Equestrian Season Peak
January-March is prime equestrian season with top international competitions at WEC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What events are happening in Ocala this month?
Ocala hosts events year-round. Regular recurring events include First Friday Art Walks (monthly), Ocala Downtown Market (every Saturday), and equestrian competitions at the World Equestrian Center (most weekends). For specific current events, check the OnlyInOcala events calendar for the most up-to-date listings.
What are the biggest annual events in Ocala Florida?
The biggest annual events in Ocala include Light Up Ocala (holiday lights and tree lighting in December), the Ocala Arts Festival (spring), the Fourth of July fireworks celebration, Oktoberfest, the annual Christmas Parade, and the ongoing World Equestrian Center competition season which attracts visitors from around the world.
Is there anything to do in Ocala in the summer?
Summer in Ocala is packed with activities. The natural springs (Silver Springs, Rainbow Springs, Juniper Springs) are at their most popular for swimming and kayaking. Fourth of July celebrations, summer camps for kids, outdoor movie nights, and water parks keep families entertained. Many restaurants and venues also host special summer events.
What holiday events does Ocala have?
Ocala has extensive holiday events. Light Up Ocala features downtown holiday lights and a tree lighting ceremony. The annual Christmas Parade draws thousands. The World Equestrian Center creates a holiday village with skating and lights. Multiple venues host New Year's Eve celebrations. Spring brings Easter egg hunts and Fourth of July features fireworks across the county.
Are there fall festivals near Ocala?
Yes, fall in Ocala features pumpkin patches and corn mazes at McKathan Brothers Farm and other local farms, Oktoberfest celebrations, Halloween events including trunk-or-treat and haunted houses, and the start of the fall equestrian season at the World Equestrian Center. Thanksgiving community events and turkey trot runs are also popular.