August 1st
Equine Gut Health Seminar | Seminole Stores | 6 PM
Join the Seminole Feed team for an informational seminar covering topics such as: Better Ingredients – Improved Gut Health Seminar, Understanding Prebiotics: Lori K. Warren, PhD, PAS and Supporting Immune Strength & Gut Health: Christine Warzecha, M.S. There will be special gifts for the first 50 guests, prizes, giveaways and hors d’oeuvres. Seminole Stores provides an array of products for your farm, ranch, livestock, pet, lawn and garden needs.
August 3rd
Game On! at Depot Park | Gainesville | 6 – 8 PM
Head to the center of the park for Chess, Checkers, Jenga, Scrabble, Connect 4 …and maybe even more. If you have a board game, please bring it to play with your friends, or come out and make some new ones. Depot Park features a Children’s Play Area with a custom splash pad of tumbling waterfalls, water soakers, and ground jets. A water’s edge promenade hosts special events like food truck rallies, art festivals, and musical performances. A recurring event happening Fridays and Saturdays.
Your senses will ignite with an intimate evening of Music and Art. Musician Michelle Willis will share the behind-the-scenes process of creating original music while performing on an art piece painted by Artist Derek Grimsley. Grimsley, an Ocala-based artist, will be painting LIVE throughout the evening. Ages 18+ only. Beer + wine served. Ticket levels vary, check the event page for more info.
Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series Presents Gedeon Luke & the People | Webb Field | 6 PM – 9 PM
The Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA), in partnership with the City of Ocala, is excited to present the concert performers on August 3rd of the Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series, Gedeon Luke with opening act by Shema Shine. The Levitt AMP music series is a free community event – you can read more about Levitt AMP, or see how you can support the Marion Cultural alliance.
August 4th
Hunt Country Horse Show | Grand Oaks Resort | 4th & 5th
Come see hunters & jumpers as they soar over fences and other obstacles! Events from 9 am to 5 pm at the Covered Arena, Front Arena, Fiber Arena & Racetrack Arena. No admission price, spectators welcome! Children’s events at the Front Arena (by the restaurant). Advanced participants at the Covered Arena. You can find more information on the event here.
Enjoy a roaring 20’s themed evening of dinner, awards, silent and live auctions, cash bar, door prizes, dancing and more. Cocktail hour begins at 5:00 PM and a buffet dinner, courtesy of The Grill at Golden Hills, begins at 6:00 PM. Golden Hills is located at Ocala National Golf Club, 4782 NW 80th Ave. in Ocala. This is a red carpet event, so formal wear is suggested. There will be a prize for the best outfit of the night.
Come out to enjoy a celebration of local produce, crafts, and food trucks! Just around the corner from the square, the open-air market pavilion hosts a wide variety of local and regional vendors offering unique and quality products.
Market Hours: Saturdays 9am-2pm Rain or Shine
Home base for the Williston Horseman’s Association, the Park hosts family-oriented competitions and events from equestrian events to car exhibitions to dog shows. The WHA is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to support the community and its youth.
Join the dedicated team at Maricamp Animal Hospital for food, drinks, music, a live auction, raffle prizes and more to benefit Saving Paws and Hooves! This festival is a family friendly event to benefit animals in life or death situations who have a realistic chance of survival and a responsible owner who cannot afford the cost of emergency treatment. Aid is provided by Saving Paws and Hooves, a non-profit organization in Central Florida..
Head to the Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area for an introductory kayak program that provides basic instruction to the inexperienced paddler. Equipment provided. Fee is $15 / person, plus park entry fee. Class meets at 9:30 am on Little Lake Weir. Location: 13275 SE 115th Ave, Ocklawaha, FL Ages: 10 and up
This introductory Paddleboard program provides basic instruction to the inexperienced paddler. Equipment provided is provided at the Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area for a fee of $15 / person, plus park entry fee. Class meets at 9:30 am on Little Lake Weir location: 13275 SE 115th Ave, Ocklawaha, FL Ages: 10 and up
This is an excellent beginner program for participants, ages 8 to adult, who would like to explore an unimproved wild cave. Requires strenuous physical activity that includes climbing, crawling on hands and knees, and belly crawling on rocky surfaces in tight spaces. Participants should wear long pants, sturdy footwear and gloves. Caving gear provided. Fee is $30 / person. Last day for Internet registration: Aug. 8, 2018
Dave Feder has carved out a niche of his own, playing a signature blend of Flamenco-infused folk music. His laid-back style and command of his instrument easily disguise the complexity of his blazingly deft fingerpicking. Heartwood Soundstage is a state-of-the-art recording studio, video production facility, and intimate performance venue – built by musicians for music lovers and music makers. Tickets available via the event page
Kanapaha offers a guided tour of the Gardens the first Saturday of every month, starting at 10:00 AM. Regular admission price for non-members and members are admitted free of charge. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens (Gainesville, Florida) is comprised of 24 major collections visually accessible from a 1 ½ mile paved walkway. These include the state’s largest public display of bamboos and the largest herb garden in the Southeast.
August 5th
Ranger Program | Silver Springs State Park | 2 – 3 PM
You’re invited to take part in a park ranger program. Topics vary with each program offering an opportunity to learn something new about Silver Springs State Park and Florida’s unique environment. The Ranger Program is held every Sunday, the program begins at 2 p.m. and is free with park admission.
First Magnitude is teaming up with the Alachua Audubon society to host monthly bird walks! Meeting first Sundays of each month at 6:45 in front of the metal Maggie sign by the entrance to The Source. The group, led by volunteers from the Alachua Audobon society will head for Depot park at 7:00 PM. Once at Depot, there will be an hour long guided tour identifying all of our lovely aerial pals! The tour should return to the brewery around 8:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to have a nighthawk…er…nightcap! The Audubon Society will provide some binoculars and bird guides, but feel free to bring any other equipment you wish!
August 6th
Swing Dancing Lessons at Depot Park | Gainesville | 7 – 8 PM
Recurring event happening Mondays July 2nd – 30th. Join the Florida Swing Dancing Club on Mondays to learn swing dancing! No experience and no partner needed, family friendly, bring water and be prepared to have fun! Fee: $5 per person/per class. Depot Park features a Children’s Play Area with a custom splash pad of tumbling waterfalls, water soakers, and ground jets. A water’s edge promenade hosts special events like food truck rallies, art festivals, and musical performances.
World’s Largest Golf Outing at Ocala Golf Club | Ocala Golf Club | 9 AM
Play in the World’s Largest Golf Outing at Ocala Golf Club, enjoy a great day of golf with friends, family and colleagues, while benefitting Fisher House Foundation (FHF), a non-profit which is best known for a network of comfort homes where military and veterans’ families can stay at no cost while a loved one is receiving treatment. This WLGO event is an 18 hole four person team scramble format. Check the event page for more information.
August 7th
UF Summer Symphony Orchestra Concert | University Auditorium, Gainesville | 7:30 PM – 9 PM
The University of Florida School of Music’s Summer Symphony Orchestra Concert will be Tuesday, August 7 at 7:30 p.m. in the University Auditorium and is free and open to the public. The program is open to UF students, faculty, as well as Gainesville community members.
August 10th
24th Annual Harvest Grape Stomp | Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards | Aug 10 – 12
It’s time for grape stomping competitions! This event is perfect for a family outing with live music the entire weekend by superb local musicians. Lakeridge wine, beer, soft drinks and a variety of food is available for purchase, along with complimentary Winery tours and tasting. A portion of the proceeds go to support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lake and Sumter Counties. Admission Fees: Adult Admission, $10 Children 12 and under – FREE, Grape Stomping all ages – Included with entry fees. Check the event page for more info.
The Alachua County Library District presents Storytime at Depot Park in the Children’s Play area. This event is free and open to the public. Check out the event page for more details. Depot Park features a Children’s Play Area with a custom splash pad of tumbling waterfalls, water soakers, and ground jets. A water’s edge promenade hosts special events like food truck rallies, art festivals, and musical performances.
The Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA), in partnership with the City of Ocala, is excited to present the concert performers on August 10th of the Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series, Squirrel Nut Zippers with opening act by Miranda Madison. The Levitt AMP music series is a free community event – you can read more about Levitt AMP here, or see how you can support the Marion Cultural alliance here.
August 11th
Everglades Appaloosa Club | Florida Horse Park | July 11 – 12
The Florida Agriculture & Horse Park Authority is a 500-acre facility that holds events of all kinds. They are open to the public at all times.
Join the Southeast Baroque Horse Show as they host a USEF/USDF Recognized Dressage and DSHB Show Intro to Grand Prix Levels, Freestyles, Dressage Sport Horse. ALL breeds are welcome. Judges: Natalie Lamping “S”, Jos Sevriens “r” DSHB, Show Manager: Donna Walters, Show Secretary: Heather Walters, 352-317-6113
Happening the second Saturday of every month celebrate music at Celebration Pointe featuring Greg Snider Jazz Quartet on the City Walk stage from 7-9 pm., lawn games & more! Taste, Mayflower Cellars, Cilantro Tacos, and Barn Goddess BBQ will have food and drink for purchase during the event. Spread a blanket under the setting sun and catch smooth ballads and intense bebop while the kids play games on the lawn.
Join WIND-FM for a night of British Rock featuring a Queen Tribute by Absolute Queen and an AC/DC Tribute by Highway to Hell. Highway to Hell plays songs spanning the entire 40-year career of AC/DC, and you will be amazed by the attention to detail in their show- the music, instruments, and overall look! Absolute Queen is sure to thrill you with their note for note matching on guitars, incredible vocal harmonies, and all of the great hits and Queen classics that will make you sing along.
You’re invited to watch canvases come to life as artists with Ocala Plein Air capture the beauty of Silver Springs State Park. Enter through the main entrance to discover art created in real time of the beautiful Silver Springs State Park. The event is free with paid park admission.
The Sparr UMC Horse Show has been a vital part of the equestrian community for many years. With its deeply rooted community involvement, they strive to give both the new and the experienced an opportunity to show in a small venue with a warm family friendly environment while providing a safe area for families to compete, learn and demonstrate horsemanship and sportsmanship. This is a recurring event free to spectators, happening every second Saturday of the month (except for December) at 9:00 AM.
Home base for the Williston Horseman’s Association, the Park hosts family-oriented competitions and events from equestrian events to car exhibitions to dog shows. The WHA is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to support the community and its youth. Exhibitions at 6 PM and races happening at 8 PM.
August 12th
Garden Tour | Silver Springs State Park | 1 PM
Join a park ranger for information about the gardens’ history, learn about the different seasonal flowers and blooms, as well as about pollinators like hummingbirds and butterflies. The tour passes through the following gardens: Courtyard Garden, Crossroads Garden, Camellia Garden, Fire & Water Garden, and the tour ends at the Wildflower Garden. After the tour, visitors are free to continue exploring the garden pathways and trails or walk back along the river. The program is free with paid park admission.
Inspired Speakers Series: Jim Abernathy | Appleton Museum of Art | 12 – 4 PM
Designed to pose the question, “What inspires you?” the Inspired Speakers Series features individuals who are not only passionate but inspire others along the way. This talk features Jim Abernathy, an award-winning author, photographer, cinematographer and conservationist who pioneered shark encounters without a cage. Free for Appleton members and CF students; $10 for nonmembers. Check the event page for more info
August 13th
Group Wine Making Class | The Corkscrew | 6 PM
Explore the basics of winemaking with the Corkscrew team as they discuss topics such as grape varietals, fermentation conditions, and types of yeast. This class will start a batch of wine, and bottle a batch made by a previous group. Call ahead and reserve your spot at 352.402.0158!
August 14th
Art 101-Foam Sculpture | Appleton Museum of Art | Aug 14 – Aug 16
Let these one-day workshops inspire your creative side and provide a fun, successful experience. Ages 21 and older may bring wine to the evening workshops. All supplies are included. $40 for Appleton members; $60 for nonmembers. Advanced Registration required at AppletonMuseum.org or by contacting Hollis Mutch at mutchh@cf.edu or 352-291-4455, ext. 1613.
August 15th
South American Food & Wine | Katya Vineyards | 5 PM – 10 PM
Grab a friend and your passport, Katya Vineyards is headed to South America! Join the Wine Maker of Katya Vineyards, David Sokol (aka Dr. Wine), as he teams up with Award Winning Chef Tony Deras to bring the ultimate culinary experience from below the Equator!
Tickets include a four-course gourmet food and wine pairing, to enhance the creations of Chef Deras which will highlight cuisine from each destination! Learn more about Katya Vineyards with our community spotlight available HERE.
August 16th
Jazz Night @ the Reilly with The Juan Rollan Quartet | Reilly Arts Center | 7:30 PM
Take a unique seat on the Reilly stage for an intimate evening of Jazz and drinks! Professional Jazz group, The Juan Rollan Quartet, featuring Noel Friedline will transport you to another time and place. They will have a bar on-stage, signature cocktails, and a night for relaxing with great music.
August 17th
Classic Albums LIVE: The Beatles’ White Album | Reilly Arts Center | 7:30 PM
Classic Albums Live takes classic albums and recreates them live, on stage – note for note, cut for cut. Founded in 2003 by Craig Martin, Classic Albums Live has become the ultimate destination for music lovers wanting to hear the greatest albums performed live without all the gimmickry and cheesy impersonations. Relying only on the music, using what Martin refers to as ‘the world’s best musicians,’ Classic Albums Live has defined itself as a mainstay in Performing Arts Centers across North America.
The Marion Cultural Alliance (MCA), in partnership with the City of Ocala, is excited to present the concert performers on August 17th of the Levitt AMP Ocala Music Series, Dumpstaphunk with opening act by Locochino. The Levitt AMP music series is a free community event – you can read more about Levitt AMP here, or see how you can support the Marion Cultural alliance here.
August 18th
Partners of the Park XC Schooling | Florida Horse Park | 8 AM
Partners of the Park is a volunteer organization of equestrians and equestrian enthusiasts dedicated to delivering a variety of schooling, dressage, and hunter-jumper shows for riders and spectators alike. Profits go toward building a better horse park for everyone to enjoy.
Partners of the Park is a volunteer organization of equestrians and equestrian enthusiasts dedicated to delivering a variety of schooling, dressage, and hunter-jumper shows for riders and spectators alike. Profits go toward building a better horse park for everyone to enjoy.
Join the Gainesville Cycling Club for their monthly Family Friendly Ride from Depot Park down the Gainesville Hawthorne Trail to the Lake Alachua Overlook for a 9 mile round trip. A shorter option is to ride to the Sweetwater Overlook, which is a 6 mile round trip. Parents and helmets required. Tag-alongs and bike trailers welcome, but no training wheels. This event is FREE and you do not have to be a member of the Gainesville Cycling Club to join, check the event page for more information.
August 19th
Pickin’ in the Park | Silver Springs State Park | 1 – 2 PM
Enjoy local and visiting musicians perform acoustic music in a scenic area near the springs. You never know what you’ll discover from banjo, guitar and fiddle to and upright bass and accordion. You’re invited to bring your own instrument or just listen and enjoy. This event is free with paid park admission.
August 24th
This program is free with paid park admission.
August 25th
Kayak/Paddleboard Outing Fort Island | Fort Island, Crystal River | 8 AM – 3 PM
Kayak outings for the experienced paddler. Participants are to meet at Brick City Adventure Park at 8:00 am. Fee is $40 / person plus the park user fee. Equipment and shuttle provided. Pre-registration required. Price: $40.00 (Standard charge) Ages: 10 and up
Held in conjunction with the exhibit, Medieval to Metal: The Art & Evolution of the Guitar, learn to emboss metal with a rock ‘n’ roll or guitar theme, all supplies included. $40 Appleton members; $60 nonmembers. Advanced registration required at AppletonMuseum.org or by contacting Hollis Mutch at mutchh@cf.edu or 325-291-4455, ext. 1613.
August 26th
Pack Walk | Silver Springs State Park | 10 – 11 AM
In partnership with the Marion County Animal Services, Silver Springs State Park presents an opportunity to make a difference in the life of a shelter dog. This program gives the animals exercise and the chance to socialize with other dogs and other people. All of the dogs are available for long-term adoption but you can also “adopt” a dog for the morning and take it for a walk with the group. Free with paid park admission, check the event page for more details.
Join the Southeast Baroque Horse Shows as the offer traditional dressage, western dressage, eventing dressage, gaited dressage and working equitation (all three phases). Beat the heat and come ride in the covered arena with all NEW footing at the Florida Horse Park. The Florida Agriculture & Horse Park Authority is a 500 acre facility that holds events of all kinds. They are open to the public at all times.
Show off your skills and save animals in one swing!! Join HAPR at the beautiful Haile Plantation Golf and Country Club Sunday, August 26th starting at 11:30 am. The tournament will include a scramble format with lots of prizes, awards, gift baskets, games and a silent auction!!!
The 5th Annual Summer Art Show (formerly Elements of Inspiration Art Show) welcomes you to an opening reception from 2:30-3:00 pm followed by an art demonstration by local artist Kristyn Bat Lopez at 3:00 p.m. Lopez is known for her delicate and bold works of art on paper and skin. She is an art educator, tattoo artist, mother of two and co-founder of Wayfaring Painter, an organization which brings engaging art classes into the library and community.
Enjoy an evening outdoors as the sun begins to set over the fairways of the George Cobb designed golf course surrounded by a tapestry of heritage oaks. Your night will be in full swing with nine holes of golf and delicious creations by Chef Aaron. Golf and nature meet in harmony at the Gainesville Country Club featuring a natural tapestry of shady oaks, wildlife-friendly ponds and carefully tended landscaping.
August 29th
Free Outdoor Community Yoga | Be Well Holistic Massage Wellness Center, P.A. | 9 – 10 AM
Take in the beautiful outdoors at Be Well Holistic Massage Wellness Center, P.A. for a gentle, all-levels, Kripalu-influenced, 60-minute group yoga session on the last Wednesday of each month (except September) at 9 am (weather permitting) led by Grace Beck of Nadi Om Wellness. Donations are accepted with gratitude to support the NadiOm Yoga For Vets program. Bring Your Own Mat and check the event page for more info
August 31st
Rocket Man: The Ultimate Elton John Tribute | Reilly Arts Center | 7:30 PM
This is Elton! Rus Anderson is Elton John’s official body double for his Farewell Yellow Brick Road world tour Virtual Reality media campaign! Picked by the man himself, Rus performs as a young Elton John in The Rocket Man Show – driving a night of Elton’s greatest hits, with spot on vocals & fierce piano playing. Rus painstakingly recreates an early Elton concert with gorgeous, colorful & flamboyant costumes actually worn by Elton – including boots, glasses & jumpsuits from 1973, as well as his sparkly tuxedo from 1984! With all the classic young Elton antics, audiences are in for a night of nostalgia, singing, laughing & participation. Remember when rock was young? You will after the show!
The 36th Annual Ocala Shrine Rodeo returns to the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala, Florida on Friday, August 31st and Saturday, September 1st, gates Open at 5:30 PM ~ Rodeo begins at 7:30 PM. The rodeo features competition in saddle and bareback bronc riding, tie down roping, steer wrestling, team roping, barrel racing, and bull riding. Proceeds benefit Ocala Shrine Club.
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