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"Ocala on Fire: Bakery Opening, Blacksmithing Expert, Equestrian Funding, & Buc-ee's Mega Store!"

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"Ocala on Fire: Bakery Opening, Blacksmithing Expert, Equestrian Funding, & Buc-ee's Mega Store!"

"Ocala on Fire: Bakery Opening, Blacksmithing Expert, Equestrian Funding, & Buc-ee's Mega Store!"
Ocala Sizzle: New bakery, blacksmithing insights, equestrian events, and Buc-ee's grand opening! Don't miss out! 🔥🐴🍞

Kevin Davis

Sep 26, 2025

Stories, Spots & Sizzle from the Heart of Ocala 
For the week Of September 26, 2025

Want to see your photo on our newsletter, please share your photos with us and we'll pick one each week to feature!   Send photos to theocalasizzle@gmail.com

 

Hey friends, Kevin Davis here—and this week on the Ocala Sizzle Podcast we’re trading smoky bites for sugary delights. From wedding-worthy cakes to donuts that are still steaming in the bag, I’ve rounded up the sweetest local spots across Ocala and The Villages. Trust me, your sweet tooth is going to thank you. Tune in and discover where comfort and sugar meet! 

Trivia Question❓

In Ocala, Florida, what unique event takes place every year where horses jump into a 40-foot deep natural spring pool?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

 Bonus Bites with Kevin...

These didn’t all make it into the episode, but I couldn’t resist sharing a few extra goodies with you:

Secret Menu Alert –  Betty Cakes sometimes offers seasonal cupcakes (like pumpkin spice or peppermint mocha) that sell out in a flash. Ask at the counter—you might get lucky.

Coffee Pairing Tip Tasty O’s apple fritters pair perfectly with a strong cup of Ocala’s  Symmetry Coffee beans. Sweet plus bold = morning magic.

Heritage Connection –  Magnolia Bakery still uses some recipes straight from Nonna’s handwritten cookbook, passed down from the family’s Italian roots.

Bread Hack – At the Farmers Market, one vendor will slice your  sourdough loaf right on the spot if you ask. Perfect for snagging a piece for the ride home.

Healthy Indulgence Soleil Bakery’s keto brownies are so fudgy, I once had to double-check the label to believe they were low-carb.

Villages TriviaCindy’s Decadent Desserts has made cakes for more than 300 community club anniversaries—baking really does bind people together!

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A new bakery is set to open in downtown Ocala, taking over a space that had previously been closed.

The bakery will offer a variety of baked goods, including breads and pastries, and will also serve coffee and other beverages.

The owners are excited to bring their passion for baking to the local community and hope to become a popular destination for residents and visitors alike.

The bakery's location in downtown Ocala is seen as a prime spot for foot traffic and is expected to attract a steady stream of customers once it opens its doors.

Read More...

This Week

Fun Holidays

26th - National Bakery Day
27th - R.E.A.D. in America Day
28th - National Good Neighbor Day
29th - National Coffee Day
30th - International Podcast Day - WOO HOO!!
1st - National Walk Your Dog Day
2nd - Peanuts (Cartoon) Day

Quote Of The Day

"Good morning Ocala! Remember, every day is a new opportunity to make positive changes in your life. Embrace the journey and stay focused on your goals. Have a fantastic day!"

A blacksmithing expert will be giving a talk on blades at Fort King.

The speaker has decades of experience in the craft and will discuss the history and techniques of blacksmithing, as well as the importance of blades in early American history.

The event is part of a series of educational talks at the fort, aimed at teaching visitors about various aspects of frontier life.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from the expert and gain insights into the art of blacksmithing and the significance of blades in American culture.

Read More...
The World Equestrian Center is requesting $100,000 from the county to help fund a 12-week series that is anticipated to bring in millions of dollars to the area.

The resort is planning to host a variety of events, including dressage, jumping, and reining competitions, as well as offering vendors, food, and entertainment.

The support from the county would assist in marketing and advertising the series, which is projected to draw numerous visitors and provide a significant economic boost to the community.

Read More...
The article discusses the opening of a new Buc-ee's convenience store in Ocala, Florida.

The new store will be the largest Buc-ee's location outside of Texas and will feature over 100 gas pumps, a wide selection of food and merchandise, and clean bathrooms.

The store is expected to bring over 200 new jobs to the area, providing a boost to the local economy.

Buc-ee's is known for its high-quality products and clean facilities, making it a popular destination for travelers and locals alike.

Read More...
Joke Of The Day

Why did the chicken cross the road in Ocala, Florida?

To get to the horse farm and avoid the retirees driving golf carts!

Oktoberfest at Midtown Station for local nonprofits


As autumn rolls in, downtown Ocala’s Oktoberfest at Midtown Station is more than bratwursts and music. This event supports several local nonprofits via vendor fees, sponsorships, and portions of proceeds. Local arts groups, community outreach programs, and causes get visibility and funds.


Mission: Promote community connections, local culture, and give nonprofits a platform in a festive, accessible environment.
How to participate: Attend the Oktoberfest weekend, buy food/drink from nonprofit-run booths, check out arts/market vendors, maybe even volunteer or donate if your favorite group is involved.

Secret Little Hack

One secret hack for Ocala, Florida is to visit the Ocala Downtown Market on a Saturday morning.


It's a great place to find fresh local produce, handmade crafts, and unique gifts.

Plus, there's often live music and food trucks to enjoy while you shop.

It's a fun way to support local businesses and get a taste of the community.

Browns Adventure Farm
Five Weeks of Fall - Honoring Our Local Heroes

 

📅 Date: Saturday/Sunday, September 27,28

🕒 Time: Sat 10am-8pm  Sun  11am-6pm

📍 Location:  Browns Adventure Farm; 13940 US-301, OXFORD FL, 34484
🎟️ Admission: $17.95 online special

 

📄 Details:  This opening weekend is dedicated to our hometown heroes. 

  • Helicopter Fly-over during our National Anthem sung by local talent, Emma Forgette.
  • Fire Department Honor Guard Team presenting the colors during the opening ceremony.
  • Meet and take photos with our local law enforcement and firefighters.
     
  •  7-Acre Corn Maze
  •  Barnyard Animals
  •  Over 30 Attractions
  •  Free Fireworks – October 4, 11, & 25
  •  Legacy of the Wild West Shows (SAT 11-1-3-5)  (SUN 12-2-4)
  •  Candy Cannon Blasts (select times)
  •  Face Painting (select times)

What’s New This Fall?!?!

  •  The Wonky Donkey Silo Bar
  •  Six Shooter Mega Slide
  •  Spider Climb
  •  Barnyard Twister
  •  Amish Playsets
  • More Photo Ops Than Ever!

Live on Stage: Into the Woods
📅 Date: September 26–28, 2025
🕒 Times: Multiple shows (e.g. Fri & Sat evenings, Sat matinee & evening, Sunday matinee)
📍 Location: Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala 🎟️ Admission: $35‑$40 for adults, $17‑$20 for ages 18 & under
📄 Details: A production of the musical Into the Woods, weaving together classic fairy tales with a twist. Great for families and musical theatre fans.

Deland Craft Show
📅 Date: September 27‑28, 2025
🕒 Time: During daytime hours (exact times vary)
📍 Location: Downtown DeLand, Woodland Boulevard, DeLand
🎟️ Admission & Parking: Free
📄 Details: Artists and makers will be selling their wares including jewelry, wood crafts, bath & body, pottery, apparel, leather, metal crafts, stained glass, garden art, bead art, live plants, and more.

Saturday Night Rodeo at Westgate River Ranch
📅 Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
🕒 Time: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 Location: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, near Lake Wales
🎟️ Admission: Adults $32.05 / Children (ages 5-12) $26.70
Children 4 & under are complimentary
📄 Details: Saddle up and come on down to Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo for an evening of family fun at the Saturday Night Rodeo! Be mesmerized by the excitement as rodeo athletes from across the region compete weekly at the 2,400-seat rodeo arena in trick riding, barrel racing, and bull riding. The Florida rodeo is a guest favorite to watch talented contestants and enjoy a patriotic tribute to our armed forces.

For over 30 years, Batterbee Roofing has been Central Florida’s trusted name in roofing, serving homeowners in Ocala, The Villages, and beyond with integrity and craftsmanship. From roof repairs and full replacements to skylights, gutters, and storm damage restoration, their award-winning team delivers dependable service backed by top industry credentials, including recognition as an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor and an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. With more than 40,000 satisfied customers, Batterbee has built its reputation on honesty, quality, and attention to detail that keeps homes safe, energy-efficient, and beautiful. Florida weather can be tough on your roof—don’t wait until minor damage turns into major problems. Call (352) 748-6300 or visit batterbeeroofing.com today to schedule your free inspection and ask about their latest offers. Protect your home with the experts at Batterbee Roofing—local, reliable, and always ready to serve.
Tip of The Day

One fun and useful tip for Ocala is to explore the beautiful Silver Springs State Park.


Enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour and witness the crystal-clear waters and diverse wildlife that call this park home.

Don't forget to bring your camera!

💡 Answer to Trivia Question:
The Horses in the Springs event, where horses jump into the deep pool at Silver Springs State Park.
The Ocala Sizzle

© 2025 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.

© 2025 The Ocala Sizzle.