Ocala, Florida is home to the famous Silver Springs State Park, which was the filming location for many movies and TV shows. Can you name one of the iconic movies filmed there?

Your complete weekend guide to activities in Ocala, Florida

Glenda Myrick, a dedicated teacher at Ward-Highlands Elementary in Ocala, has been recognized as the April 2026 Amazing Teacher. This community spotlight celebrates educators who go above and beyond for their students in Marion County.

Honoring Fallen First Responders and Vets at 2nd Annual 4th of July Bash

The 2nd Annual 4th of July Bash will honor Fallen First Responders and Vets, especially in memory of Nick Tilliman's favorite holiday.

Proceeds will go towards combating suicide in these communities.

The event is family-friendly with water slides, bounce houses, games, a live DJ, and a firework display.

Donations are accepted, and businesses can contribute through the 501c3 foundation.

Attendees are encouraged to bring food and drinks.

All are welcome to join in celebrating America's 250th birthday and supporting a worthy cause.

North Central Florida veterans are working together to build a community that remembers those lost to mental health issues.

The group aims to provide support and resources to veterans struggling with mental health challenges, as well as honor those who have passed away.

By sharing their stories and experiences, they hope to raise awareness and break the stigma surrounding mental health in the veteran community.

Through events and outreach efforts, they are creating a safe space where veterans can come together, find support, and remember those who have lost their lives to mental health issues.

Marion County officials and hundreds of local residents gathered Thursday, May 21st for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the new state-of-the-art Marion County Animal Shelter. The $24 million facility, located on a 20-acre donated site at 6405 W. Highway 40, replaces an aging, undersized shelter and features expanded kennels, dedicated surgical suites, enrichment spaces for animals, and increased parking. The new shelter represents a major investment in animal welfare and community service, providing separate treatment areas for surgical, pre-op, and ICU care, plus dedicated spaces for training and playgroups. The project broke ground in October 2024 and was completed this spring, demonstrating Marion County's commitment to caring for its furry residents.

Mesa de Notte 

 

District Bar and Kitchen

 

Braised Onion 

 

Bank Street Patio

 

Harrys Seafood Bar and Grille

 

Ivy on the Square

 

La Cuisine French Restaurant

 

Say Taco Tequila Bar and Grille

Beauty's Haven, located in Central Florida near Ocala, is a non-profit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming neglected, abused, and/or abandoned horses.

They also offer sanctuary to horses with special needs, giving them a chance at a pain-free and dignified life.

The organization also focuses on educating the public on proper horse care and welfare issues like horse slaughter.

They encourage individuals to take action when encountering cases of neglect or cruelty towards horses.

Beauty's Haven is grateful for the support and invites visitors to browse their website to learn more about their work with horses.

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One of the iconic movies filmed at Silver Springs State Park in Ocala, Florida is the 1954 classic "Creature from the Black Lagoon."