OCALA, FL (352tody.com) – This weekend is packed with active events to keep locals moving and entertained. From lively markets, fiestas and hiking to Blues music from Matt Schofield, locals will have a variety of events to walk around, connect with the community and have fun.
Ocala Downtown Market
- What: Everything peculiar, strange and mysterious can be found at the oddities market from taxidermy and bug infused jewelry to arts, fashion, hand soaps and other handcrafted goods. With over 70 vendors to choose from, there will be plenty of oddities to choose from while enjoying some of the food trucks available on site.
- When: Friday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
- Where: Ocala Downtown Market, 403 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala, FL 34471
- Cost: Free admission
Blues in the Box: Matt Schofield in the NOMA Black Box
- What: Matt Schofield visits Ocala to provide a night of excitement with his own British Blues music. He has an extensive background in guitar and will be sharing it at the Reilly Arts Center with a live performance of his own written works.
- When: Friday starting at 7:30 p.m.
- Where: The Reilly Arts Center NOMA Black Box Theatre, 500 NE 9th St., Ocala, FL
- Cost: General admission is $30 with a premium seating option for $180
Ocala Comic Con
- What: Comic books, superheroes, video games, and more at the Ocala Comic Con. Come dressed as your favorite characters and have a chance to meet some celebrity guests while shopping around at one of the many vendors available at the event.
- When: Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Where: The World Equestrian Expo Center 1, Building 1284 NW 87th Ct RD Ocala, FL
- Cost: Free admission for kids 10 and under, $40 for a Saturday pass, $35 for a Sunday pass and $60 for a two-day pass for ages 11 and up.
4th Annual Williston Fiesta
- What: Take a dive into Latin culture at the 4th Annual Williston Fiesta, a lively celebration at Heritage Park. There will be Latin music, cuisine, dance and vendors for guests to get some handmade crafts, arts and more.
- When: Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- Where: Heritage Park in Downtown Williston, 116 N Main St., Williston, FL
- Cost: Free admission
Hike and Feast Workshop at Greenway Park
- What: Take an educational hike through a walking trail at Greenway Park, guided by two certified Florida Master Naturalists. During this walk, hikers will learn about local ecosystems, native plants and wildlife as well as the significance of Florida’s natural history and the importance of preservation for all of it. Guests will be treated to a three-course meal prepared at the hiking spot for fresh food with Florida in mind.
- When: Sunday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Where: Greenway Baseline Park, 4255 SE 58th Ave, Ocala, FL
- Cost: $80. Advance reservation Required.
Ocala Makers Market
- What: A free, family-friendly market with over 50 vendors for locals to get their hands on some handcrafted items. With food trucks nearby and vendors to explore, guests can grab food and explore unique items.
- When: Sunday 12 to 4 p.m.
- Where: Ocala Downtown market, 403 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala, FL 34471
- Cost: Free admission