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Dec 17, 2025

The Arc Marion Receives $25K Energy Award from SECO Energy for Interactive Therapeutic Technology

The Arc Marion awarded $25K grant from SECO Energy to purchase Tover interactive projectors, enhancing engagement for individuals with developmental disabilities.

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Dec 17, 2025

Ocala Honors Musical Heritage with New Historic Landmark

Ocala City Council approves a historic marker commemorating the 1961 meeting between Elvis Presley and Tom Petty, enriching the city's cultural landscape.

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Dec 10, 2025

Ellianos Coffee Opens Third Ocala Location on Maricamp Road

Ellianos Coffee expands in Ocala with a new drive-thru location at 4335 SE Maricamp Road, offering handcrafted espresso drinks and Southern-inspired breakfast favorites.

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Dec 10, 2025

Ocala Man Claims $15 Million Lottery Prize from Scratch-Off Ticket

Ocala resident David Keith Rubin wins $15 million in Florida Lottery's Gold Rush Multiplier game, opting for a lump-sum payout of $8,968,000.

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Dec 2, 2025

Ocala Considers Historic Marker for Elvis Presley and Tom Petty Encounter

Ocala City Council to review proposal for a historic marker commemorating the 1961 meeting between Elvis Presley and Tom Petty during the filming of 'Follow That Dream.'

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Dec 2, 2025

Marion County to Break Ground on New Fire Station in North Ocala

Marion County officials will break ground on a new fire station in north Ocala on December 9, enhancing emergency services for the Lowell community.

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Nov 27, 2025

Ocala's Thanksgiving Fire of 1883: The Blaze That Forged 'The Brick City'

Discover how Ocala's 1883 Thanksgiving fire led to its rebirth as 'The Brick City,' transforming its downtown and community resilience.

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Nov 18, 2025

Light Up Ocala 2025: Event Details and Schedule

Join the 41st annual Light Up Ocala on November 22, 2025, featuring over 100 vendors, live entertainment, and the official lighting ceremony at 6 p.m.

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Nov 11, 2025

Cold Weather Shelters Open in North Central Florida Amid Freezing Temperatures

North Central Florida activates cold weather shelters as temperatures drop to near freezing, providing warmth and safety for residents in need.

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Nov 11, 2025

"Sunshine State Shivers: Florida Faces Frigid November Freeze"

An unprecedented Arctic blast sends temperatures plummeting across Florida, breaking November records and causing unique challenges for residents and wildlife.

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Nov 8, 2025

Ocali Country Days Festival 2025: Experience Florida's Pioneer History

Join the Ocali Country Days Festival on November 8-9, 2025, at the Silver River Museum in Ocala to explore 1800s Florida through live demonstrations and historic exhibits.

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Nov 6, 2025

Sister Hazel Headlines 7th Annual Florida Cracker Christmas Fundraiser

Join Sister Hazel at the 7th Annual Florida Cracker Christmas on Dec 13, 2025, in Brooksville, FL, supporting Operation HeartF.E.L.T.

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Nov 6, 2025

Thanksgiving Restaurants in Ocala, FL: Dine-In and Takeout Options for 2025

Discover Ocala's top restaurants offering Thanksgiving dine-in and takeout meals in 2025. Enjoy a hassle-free holiday feast with these local options.

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Nov 4, 2025

Winning Lottery Ticket Sold at Silver Springs Winn-Dixie

A $12,779 Fantasy 5 lottery ticket sold at Silver Springs Winn-Dixie remains unclaimed. Check your tickets to see if you're the lucky winner.

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Nov 4, 2025

Ocala's Jackie Kay III Stars in 'Signing Tony Raymond'

Ocala native Jackie Kay III leads the cast in the upcoming sports comedy 'Signing Tony Raymond,' set for January 2026 release.

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Nov 4, 2025

BarbaCuban 455 Sauce Expands to Over 100 Walmart Stores in Florida

Ocala's BarbaCuban 455 Sauce, created by Jose Juarez, will be available in over 100 Walmart stores across Florida following success at Walmart's Open Call.

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Nov 4, 2025

Light Up Ocala 2025: Celebrate the Holidays in Downtown Ocala

Join the 41st annual Light Up Ocala on November 22, 2025, featuring live entertainment, over 100 vendors, and the grand lighting ceremony.

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Oct 28, 2025

Big Lots Returns to Ocala, Replacing Former Roses Discount Store

Big Lots reopens at 8445 SW State Road 200 in Ocala, replacing the former Roses Discount Store and marking a significant comeback in the community.

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Oct 28, 2025

Planet Smoothie Opening New Location in Southwest Ocala

Planet Smoothie is expanding to southwest Ocala with a new store in Market Street at Heath Brook, joining Great Greek Mediterranean Grill and Crumbl Cookies.

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Oct 22, 2025

I-75 Flea Market Fair Returns to Ocala This Week

Experience thrilling rides, live entertainment, and family fun at the I-75 Flea Market Fair in Ocala, October 23-26. Don't miss this annual event!

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Oct 21, 2025

Guy Fieri's Chicken Guy! Opens New Location in Ocala Walmart

Guy Fieri's Chicken Guy! opens in Ocala's Walmart Supercenter, offering signature chicken tenders and sauces.

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Oct 15, 2025

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers Opening on College Road in Ocala

Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers is set to open its first Ocala location on College Road in early 2026, expanding its presence in Florida.

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Oct 15, 2025

Miller's Ale House Opens New Location on SR 200 in Ocala

Miller's Ale House celebrates the grand opening of its new SR 200 location in Ocala, offering American pub fare and a vibrant sports bar atmosphere.

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Oct 15, 2025

Ocala Police Department Hosts Community Meet-and-Greet Event

Join the Ocala Police Department on October 15 for a community meet-and-greet event at OPD Headquarters to engage with officers and explore specialized units.

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Oct 9, 2025

Wildwood Announces Overnight Lane Closures on Signature Drive Starting October 12

Wildwood to begin overnight lane closures on Signature Drive from October 12 to enhance traffic flow and safety. Construction expected to complete by early 2026.

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Oct 9, 2025

Ocala Advances Rails-to-Trails Initiative Amid Safety Concerns

Ocala is progressing with plans to convert inactive railways into public trails, addressing safety concerns following recent derailments.

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Oct 9, 2025

Exciting Golf Developments Unveiled in Eastport at The Villages

Discover the new golf courses and facilities coming to Eastport in The Villages, enhancing the golfing experience for all enthusiasts.

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Oct 9, 2025

New Home2 Suites by Hilton Planned for Silver Springs

A new Home2 Suites by Hilton is set to enhance Silver Springs' hospitality landscape with a five-story, 106-room hotel.

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Oct 2, 2025

Amazon Expands in Ocala with $97 Million Warehouse Purchase

Amazon enhances its logistics network by acquiring a 1,085,280-square-foot warehouse in Ocala for $97 million.

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Oct 1, 2025

2025 Parade of Homes Winners Announced by MCBIA

The Marion County Building Industry Association announces the 2025 Parade of Homes winners, celebrating local builders' exceptional design and craftsmanship.

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Sep 30, 2025

Vendors Wanted for Light Up Lake Lillian 2025 in Belleview

Belleview seeks vendors for Light Up Lake Lillian 2025. Join the holiday celebration on December 6 with live music, food, and festive activities.

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Sep 30, 2025

Sumter County Schools Donate Buses to Youth Center Amid Rapid Growth

Sumter County Schools support after-school programs by donating buses to the Youth Center, addressing transportation challenges amid rapid district growth.

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Sep 30, 2025

Ocala Police Department Enhances Motorcycle Safety Through State Grant

The Ocala Police Department utilizes a state grant to improve motorcycle safety awareness and enforcement, aiming to reduce crashes and fatalities in Ocala.

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Sep 30, 2025

7 Brew to Open New Drive-Thru Coffee Stand in Belleview

7 Brew is opening a new drive-thru coffee location at 5530 SE Abshier Blvd. in Belleview, Florida, this fall, creating approximately 50 jobs.

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Sep 17, 2025

Ocala Civic Theatre's 75th Anniversary Season: A Diverse 2025-26 Lineup

Ocala Civic Theatre celebrates its 75th anniversary with a diverse 2025-26 season featuring mainstage productions, community events, and special performances.

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Sep 17, 2025

"Ocala's Downtown Trolley: Ride for Free and Explore the City's Vibrant Heart"

Unlock the charm of downtown Ocala for free with new trolley service - hop aboard and explore!

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Sep 12, 2025

Marion County Sheriff's Office Offers Homecoming Attire Assistance to Students

Marion County Sheriff's Office provides free formalwear to students for homecoming, ensuring every student can participate in this memorable event.

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Sep 12, 2025

South Marion High School Opening in August 2026

South Marion High School, Marion County's first new high school since 2003, is set to open near Marion Oaks in August 2026.

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Aug 27, 2025

Ocala Residents Express Concerns Over Rapid Development

Ocala residents voice concerns over rapid development affecting infrastructure and environment.

The Ocala Sizzle

© 2026 The Ocala Sizzle.

The Ocala Sizzle is your go-to guide for everything happening in Ocala and The Villages. From neighborhood news and standout events to restaurant picks, local gems, and fresh stories from the community, we bring the heat and the heart of Central Florida straight to your inbox. Whether you're a lifelong local or just settling in, The Ocala Sizzle keeps you connected to the buzz and beauty of life in horse country.

© 2026 The Ocala Sizzle.