Saturday, November 18, 2023

Downtown Ocala

4 – 9 PM

About Light Up Ocala

Light Up Ocala is a longstanding community tradition to kick off the holidays that attracts thousands to downtown Ocala. This year marks the 39th anniversary of the holiday merry making event!

Light Up Ocala will have over 100 vendors including crafts, art and plenty of food options to choose from! Live entertainment will fill the air with festive sounds and an interactive kids zone will keep the whole family entertained. You won’t want to miss the Junior Sunshine holiday parade with a special appearance by Santa. All of which culminates in the most exciting part of the event: lighting up downtown Ocala!

Sponsors

Light Up Ocala would not be possible without the support from our sponsors. Please download our Sponsorship Guide to see available opportunities and contact Brooke Perry at bperry@ocalafl.gov for additional information.

AFTER DARK IN THE PARK

• Friday, Oct 6 – “Hotel Transylvania” starts at 7 PM at Citizens’ Circle

• Dracula, who operates a high-end resort away from the human world, goes into overprotective mode when a boy discovers the resort and falls for the count’s teenage daughter. Runtime 91 mins
• Rated PG

The Discovery Center is Ocala’s local children’s science center! Located at Tuscawilla Park, the Discovery Center is a place for kids to learn in a fun, hands-on way. From rotating exhibits to STEAM-centered classes, there is plenty of reasons to check out what’s new at Discovery Center!

Center Hours

Tuesday – Saturday: 10 AM – 4 PM*

Monday & Sunday: Closed

*Please note that last entry is 30 minutes prior to closing.

Date: 10/21/2023 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Location: Downtown Square

1 SE Broadway St., Ocala, Florida 34471

A free and encouraging event full of music, the art of worship, art, baptism, and prayer. For details, please contact Chris Dolan of Chris Dolan Music, Inc. at 352.304.1659.

Date: 09/30/2023 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Fort King National Historic Landmark

3925 E Fort King St., Ocala, Florida 34470

Step back in time and explore Ocala’s history with a guided lantern tour at the fort. Meet the legends of Fort King’s past as they tell you of a time gone by. Enjoy pioneer games and food while you wait for your tour to start. Guests should arrive 30 minutes before their tour time starts to ensure prompt transportation to the fort. There will be no parking onsite, parking will be available at the Klein lot. $10 per person. For details, please contact Kathleen Ramirez, Outdoor Historical Resource Archaeologist, at Fort King National Historic Landmark, at 352.368.3355.

Join us for special events and programs exclusively for Ocala adults ages 50 and older. From walking clubs to learning a new crafting skill, we have plenty of opportunities to get involved. See City of Ocala website for more.

Year Round Programs

Artistic Touch Crafts- $5 per session

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place | 1821 NW 21st Ave.

Year round | First and Third Tuesday of the month | 10 AM – Noon

Get crafty with these fun DIY workshops to renew and discover your artistic abilities! Every session we will work on a new craft project for you to take home to display. You bring the creative spirit; we’ll bring the supplies. Registration required for each session.

Footloose Line Dancing – FREE

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place | 1821 NW 21st Ave.

Starting Jan. 17 | Tuesdays | 11 AM – NOON

Come join us for an hour of dancing fun. This class is for anyone who loves to dance, whether you are experienced, or new to the dance floor. You will learn the basic steps of many soul and line dances while getting a workout at the same time.

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Ocala Recreation and Parks offers a variety of sports, programs, activities and events for kids! Whether your three-year-old wants to Start Smart with playing soccer or you are looking for after school programs, there are plenty of options for kids of all ages in Ocala!

T-Ball

Start Smart T-Ball League | Ages 5 – 6

Mondays & Wednesdays | Sept. 4 – Oct. 18 | 6 – 7 PM

Jervey Gantt Park | 2200 SE 36th Av.

$65/person

Little Batter Up! We’ll help your mini 5-6 year old athlete get started on their athletic journey. This program will help participants develop their talents and learn sportsmanship in a safe and encouraging environment.

Basketball

Skills and Drillz | Ages 6 – 8

Aug. 9 – 30 | Wednesdays | 5:30 – 6:30 PM

Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place | 1821 NW 21st Ave.

$20 per person

Help your mini athlete gain a competitive advantage while participating in youth sports. Kids will compete in fun and exciting drills designed to sharpen hand, foot and eye coordination.

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