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"Ocala Sizzle: Ranking as Top Destination, Christmas Parade Success, & Buc-ee's Buzz!"
"Ocala Sizzle: Ranking as Top Destination, Christmas Parade Success, & Buc-ee's Buzz!"
"Ocala Sizzle: Ranking as Top Destination, Christmas Parade Success, & Buc-ee's Buzz!"
Don't miss out on this week's Ocala Sizzle Podcast Show Notes - Ocala ranked 2nd most popular move destination, $11,000 raised for foster children, and excitement for Buc-ee's 2028 arrival! 🔥 #OcalaSizzle #PodcastNotes #ExcitingNews
Wendell Carr
Dec 26, 2025
Stories, Spots & Sizzle from the Heart of Ocala |
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Season One is wrapping up, and we’re looking back at the standout flavors, places, performances, and moments that made 2025 unforgettable in Ocala and The Villages. From fine dining and comfort favorites to cultural gems and serene escapes, this episode celebrates the local businesses and experiences that defined our year — plus a little peek into what 2026 might bring. |
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Bonus Bites with Kevin.. |
🥩 Mark’s Prime Steak House (Ocala) Why It Made the List: Consistent excellence, elevated plating, and a reputation as the place for special occasions. |
La Cuisine French Restaurant (Downtown Ocala) Why It Made the List: A warm, elegant French bistro experience that blends classic cuisine with intimate charm. |
Why It Made the List: Comfort food with flair — a menu filled with elevated classics and warm hospitality. |
Why It Made the List: Fine dining paired with handcrafted wines and a beautifully curated menu. |
🎨 Appleton Museum of Art (Ocala) Why It Made the List: Exhibits, family programs, art labs, and cultural events that shaped the year. |
Why It Made the List: A peaceful retreat filled with trails, gardens, and spots to pause and breathe. |
🎶 Orange Blossom Opry (Weirsdale) Why It Made the List: A venue where music, laughter, and community come together in an intimate setting. |
🥃 Brick City Southern Kitchen & Whiskey Bar (Ocala) Why It Made the List: Southern dishes made with passion and a whiskey selection that impresses. |
Why It Made the List: Bold, global flavors and presentation that pushed boundaries in Ocala’s dining scene. |
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In a recent report, Ocala was ranked as the second most popular destination to move to nationally. The city's affordability, job market, and overall quality of life were cited as key factors driving this trend. With a growing number of people choosing to relocate to Ocala, it has become a sought-after location for those looking for a new place to call home. The city's diverse opportunities and amenities make it an attractive choice for individuals and families seeking a change of scenery. This ranking highlights Ocala's appeal as a desirable place to live and work. Read More... |
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A Christmas golf cart parade in Marion raised over $11,000 for foster children in the area. The event saw a great turnout, with participants decorating their carts in festive holiday themes. The money raised will go directly towards providing gifts and support for children in foster care during the holiday season. The community's generosity and support for this cause will make a significant impact on the lives of these children, bringing some holiday cheer and joy to those who need it most. Read More... |
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A popular destination for travelers, Buc-ee's, is set to open a location in Ocala in 2028. Known for their clean restrooms and massive stores, the Texas-based chain will bring their large, clean restrooms, vast array of snacks, and impressive merchandise to the area. With plans to create over 200 new jobs, the store is expected to be a major draw for both locals and tourists passing through town. The announcement has generated excitement and anticipation among Ocala residents, who are eagerly looking forward to experiencing all that Buc-ee's has to offer. Read More... |
This Week | ||
Fun Holidays |
Dec 26 – Thank You Note Day 💌 |
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This Week in Ocala History December 26, 1981 – Ocala celebrated its first “Downtown After Christmas Walk,” a small event that helped inspire future holiday strolls, markets, and end-of-year celebrations |
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The Power of Local Charities in Ocala & The Villages
As 2025 winds down, it’s a perfect time to honor the charities that keep Ocala and The Villages strong, compassionate, and connected. These organizations do more than provide services — they bring hope, stability, and dignity to thousands of local residents. In Ocala, the United Way of Marion County continues to tackle critical needs like hunger and housing. Groups like Helping Hands Foundation and Interfaith Emergency Services provide shelter, food, and crisis support to vulnerable residents. Habitat for Humanity of Lake-Sumter helps families achieve homeownership, while the Humane Society of Marion County safeguards the region’s animal welfare. In The Villages, Operation Shoebox supports deployed troops with care packages, and local foundations like the Howard K. Archdeacon Family Foundation fuel community-focused grants. Seasonal efforts like Kids, Cops & Christmas show how residents come together to ensure every child experiences holiday joy. These charities are the heartbeat of our region. They invite each of us to take part—whether by donating, volunteering, or simply spreading awareness. As we look to 2026, their work reminds us that even small acts of giving can lead to lasting change. Let’s continue to lift each other up, one act of kindness at a time. |
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Phantasmagoria presents A Very Dickens Christmas
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30th Annual Trains at the Holidays — Ocala Model Railroaders
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