Can’t wait to get a head start on your Fall social calendar? We’ll make it easy for you with this month’s events blog featuring a full line up of live music, local brews and on stage performance at The Reilly Arts Center. Need a little fresh air? We’ve found the best of the best outdoorsy outings for you and your friends at the Florida Horse Park, Silver Springs State Park, Depot Park and so much more!
October 2nd
Homebuyer’s Education Course | UF/IFAS Marion County Extension | Oct 2 – Oct 23
Homebuyer education helps reduce stressful, discouraging, time-consuming and costly roadblocks. Certificates of completion will be awarded after attendance of all four classes. Satisfies requirements set forth by H.U.D., S.H.I.P., Habitat for Humanity and other housing assistance programs. Follow the link to learn about all 4 class topics. Registration deadline is September 27, 2018
October 3rd
Archery 101 for Adults, Session I | Brick City Adventure Park | 5:30 PM
Try something new and unique with this beginner archery program for adults ages 17 and up. Class start Oct 3rd – 24th, entry fee is $15 a month per person and includes 4 classes. Classes meet weekly at Brick City Adventure Park – 1211 SE 22nd Road, Ocala, FL. Follow the link for more information about Session II
Want to learn more about the IT Industry? Join CF for this hands-on learning experience! This free event at the College of Central Florida Ocala Campus, Ewers Century Center, is the perfect opportunity to learn more about the different career paths available with IT. From middle school to college, students of all ages and technical experience levels are welcome. Follow the link to learn about what you can expect at this event. Be sure to look at our #CommunitySpotlight featuring CF’s Vintage Farm and learn how they are improving their equestrian studies program.
Looking for a refreshing brewski in Gainesville? First Magnitude Brewery is one of our top recommendations! This is a15 barrel production brewery and tasting room. We have indoor space and a large, shaded beer garden. They have a full line up of events throughout the month, follow the link for more details. Cheers!
October 5th
October Art Walk | Downtown Ocala | 6 – 9 PM
The highly anticipated First Friday Art Walk season is back! This FREE community event takes place the first Friday of each month from September through May. Located within Ocala’s historic downtown, event festivities include artist displays, live entertainment, free family art activities and extended shopping hours. Check the event page for a full lineup of activities. Additional activities and events will be happening simultaneously all throughout downtown at some of our participating businesses. #shoplocal #eatlocal #buylocal
The Villages Polo Club fall season runs from October 5th through November 25th. Matches are held every Friday and Sunday at 1 pm and 3 pm. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, at any of The Villages Box Office locations, online or at the gate on the day of the event. They have concessions and a full bar as well as a gift shop for all your TVPC logo apparel needs! We offer a great opportunity for a family-friendly outing in the heart of Florida’s Friendliest Hometown. Come by car or golf car to enjoy all the excitement.
October 6th
Ocala Downtown Market | Downtown Ocala | 9 AM – 2 PM
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. The market is open weekly, Saturdays 9am-2pm Rain or Shine
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.
Come see hunters & jumpers as they soar over fences and other obstacles! Events from 9 am to 5 pm at the Covered Arena, Fiber Arena & Racetrack Arena. No admission price, spectators welcome! Please visit the event site for more information.
Coach Matty Klein is a certified teaching coach with the IPTPA (International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association). With over 7 years of experience, he has taught over 8,000 students on 22 states and 3 countries. He and wife, Coach Meishen, offer weekly Pickleball Clinics where you can enhance your game and hone your skills. This is a recurring event, follow the link for registration details.
As the 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.
FWRHA Championship Show | Florida Horse Park | 11 AM
The Florida Walking and Racking Horse Association is a devoted group of horse enthusiasts that are dedicated to the promotion of the Tennessee Walking, Racking, and Spotted Saddle Horse. FWRHA holds several events from shows to trail rides throughout the year to showcase this wonderful breed of horse.
October 7th
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.
October 11th
Ocala Pumpkin Patch | First United Methodist Church | Dates & Times Vary
The Ocala Pumpkin Patch will open at First United Methodist Church on October 11th – 31st, times vary check the event page for details. Pick out your pumpkins, snap a pic at the photo booth, enjoy storytime for kids, and live music on Saturday nights at the Pumpkin Patch After Dark! All proceeds will go to support the community.
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.
October 12th
Fall Plant Sale & Orchid Show | Kanapaha Botanical Gardens | Oct 12 – Oct 13
Each October, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens holds an Open House & Fall Plant Sale, in conjunction with the Gainesville Orchid Society, inviting visitors to see the facility, this is event is FREE and open to the public. In addition to viewing the botanical gardens, approximately 50 booths will be set up selling a wide variety of plants. The American Orchid Society will have their annual American Orchid Society’s judged show that will coincide with the Fall Plant Sale and will take place inside Kanapaha’s entrance building.
The University of Florida will host Pop-Up Culture at the Plaza of the Americas, during this event, student organizations, clubs and individuals will give performances ranging from choreographed dances to acro-yoga and lead activities like painting and screenprinting. For more information about Pop-Up Culture and National Arts and Humanities Month at UF, visit their website
As the 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.
October 13th
Sparr UMC Horse Show 2018 | Sparr United Methodist Church | 9 AM
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.
Come and discover what life was like at the turn of the century in the Florida “Piney Woods.” The cracker homestead is a replica of a 19th-century pioneer settlement. This collection of buildings represents a small “Cracker” settlement dating to the 1890s. During the tour, replica buildings will be open for viewing and on most tours the blacksmith’s forge will be fired up. Meet at the Cracker Village across from the Silver River Museum. This is a reoccurring event check the event page for details.
Marion County 4-H Foundation Presents, “Casino Night” a great event benefiting the Marion County 4-H Foundation and its mission to create supportive environments for youth to reach their fullest potential. Admission fees include $80 per person, $150 per couple, $700 for a table of 10. With 10 different games, you’ll never be bored! Check the event page for details.
Join the OSO for Saint-Saens’ mythic tale of Phaeton’s journey to the sun, Kristen Stoner’s beautiful flute playing in Griffes’ Poeme, and one of the most vivid musical trips ever written, Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique. Individual tickets on sale August 30. Showtimes include: Sat Oct 13, 7:30 PM and Sun Oct 14, 3:00 PM
Explore the lives of bats, bees, birds and butterflies at the 13th annual ButterflyFest on Saturday, Oct. 13 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.! Learn about butterfly gardening, native pollinators, conservation, backyard wildlife and more during this FREE, fun-for-all-ages event. Enjoy the ButterflyFest plant sale beginning Friday, Oct. 12 to Oct.14, one of the museum’s largest sales of the year with more than 150 species available. Experience butterfly releases and come dressed in your favorite pollinator attire for the pollinator parade!
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.
Hosted by Tradewinds Farm, take part in a day of competing at this USEA Recognized Horse Trials (BN-P). Tradewinds Farm offers eventing farm offering customized, professional training for horses and riders with advanced event rider, Chrissy Hollnagel. Please let Chrissy know if you need help in warm-ups or course walks!
Ocala Health is celebrating tit’s first annual Harvest Fest, held on Saturday, October 13 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the field across from West Marion Community Hospital. This is a free, family-friendly event featuring bouncy houses, pumpkin patch and decorating (while supplies last), potato sack races, petting zoo and pony rides, slides and train rides, food trucks and more! Visit this link for more information.
Head to Depot Park for a free outdoor showing of “Cars”. The movie will take place on The Hill at sunset, be sure to bring a chair or blanket. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Check the event page for more details.
Canterbury Open Pleasure Show 9 | Canterbury Showplace | 9 AM
Canterbury Showplace is an Equestrian Center open to horse-related events and shows.This show is a part of a series hoster at Canterbury Showplace featuring Hi Point awards at each event and Hi Point series winner at the conclusion of the events series. You must compete in any 7 of the shows in the series to qualify for the End of Year Hi Point.
October 14th
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.
Join the Marion Saddle Club for a day of fun at the Florida Horse Park. The Florida Agriculture & Horse Park Authority is a 500 acre facility that holds events of all kinds. We are open to the public at all times. Come visit and get event updates here.
October 18th
Jazz Night @ the Reilly with the Scott Wilson Quintet | Reilly Arts Center | 7:30 PM
Take a unique seat on the Reilly stage for an intimate evening of Jazz and drinks! Scott Wilson, Associate Professor at the UF School of Music / Jazz Studies, will be joined by all-star performers from the North Central Florida area for a cool night of contemporary jazz fusion. Join us on stage for signature cocktails, and a night for relaxing with great music you won’t find anywhere but on stage at the Reilly Arts Center.
In the fall of 1946, crooked businessman Harry Brock is in Washington, D.C. to bribe government bigwigs into shady deals… read on via the event page. “Born Yesterday” is directed by Carlos Francisco Asse. There will be 21 public performances from October 18 through November 11. Tickets are $27 for adults and $13 for full-time students (school ID required for college students). Group rates are available as well. Call (352) 236-2274 or go to OcalaCivicTheater.com for more information.
Marion County Roadbuilders Association presents the 19th Annual Florida Feast featuring an authentic Florida menu with Turkey, Venison, Gatortail, Frog Legs and More! This event helps to benefit ARC Marion, IES, MTRA, Arnette House & MCRA Foundation.
Weekday outings on the Silver Rivers, ideal for beginners and those interested in nature and wildlife-viewing. Equipment provided. Fee is $30 / person ages 18 and up. Fee includes equipment and refreshments following the outing. Paddlers will meet at 9:30 am at the Silver Springs State Park launch site (Route 40 entrance). Can’t make it this week? No worries this event happens the third Thursday of every Month.
October 19th
All-Breed Agility Trials Dog Show | Grand Oaks Resort | Oct 19 – Oct 21
Enjoy a wonderful three-day event with shows from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm each day, held at the Covered Arena. This competitive event is open to all breeds of dog. “Agility” is a fast-growing sport where dogs are required to complete an obstacle course consisting of jumps, tunnels, etc. in an allotted amount of time. This event is ponsored by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the Mid Florida Golden Retriever Club. Pets are welcome but please keep them on a leash. For more information follow the link.
Presented by Jenkins Auto Group, Michael Greger, M.D., author of “How Not to Die” is presenting a free and open lecture on how a vast majority of premature deaths can be prevented through simple changes in diet and lifestyle. The internationally-recognized lecturer, physician, and founder of NutritionFacts.org, examines the fifteen top causes of death in America and explains how nutritional and lifestyle interventions can sometimes trump prescription pills and other pharmaceutical and surgical approaches. Showtimes available on Fri. Oct 19, 9:30 AM and 12:30 PM
The Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair has been educating, enlightening and informing the people of North Florida about science, the arts, agriculture and horticulture. This year’s shows are as follows, Friday, Oct. 19th, 6:30 p.m. – Speed and Saturday, Oct. 20th, 9:00 a.m. – At halter. For registration and gate information check the event page.
October 20th
Partners of the Park 3-Phase 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.
The 2018 Jazz Up Dunnellon Music Festival will feature ten stages up and down both East and West Pennsylvania Avenue. Bands will perform on BOTH sides of Pennsylvania Avenue. There will be Jazz, rock, blues, country, folk and even swing music playing throughout the event! Visit the vendors to get some great food and drinks, gifts and more. Discover all that Dunnellon has to offer with our exclusive blog, here.
A local tradition, head to the McIntosh Festival for food, live oak canopies, all day free entertainment and so much more! This is a one day festival with over 280 arts, crafts and antique vendors. The perfect family getaway, follow the link for more details.
The Petty Hearts are back, and just in time to celebrate Tom Petty’s Birthday! The Hearts will play the hits and some deep cuts from his masterful catalog. The Petty Hearts are America’s definitive Tom Petty Tribute Show. Just like the original Tom and the Heartbreakers themselves, this band is also based out of Florida and is comprised of seasoned musicians who perfectly capture the rich guitar sounds and lush harmonies that made Tom Petty a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Songwriter Hall of Famer, Super Bowl Halftime Performer and top of the charts music maker for more than forty years.
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.
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. Get event updates here.
As the 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.
October 21st
Pickin’ in the Park | Silver Springs State Park | 1:00 PM
Silver Springs State ParkJam out to acoustic music at Silver Springs State Park, from banjo, guitar and fiddle to upright bass and accordion. You’re invited to bring your own instrument, join in, and jam with the group! Located in the central and charming Ocala, Florida, Silver Springs State Park has been a natural landmark since the 1870s, enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, Glass Bottom Boat tours, biking, hiking, camping.
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 Jill Sonke, University of Florida Center for Arts in Medicine, UF Health Arts in Medicine. This presentation will explore the theoretical and practical linkages between the arts and health, will introduce the Arts in Medicine Programs at the University of Florida as an example of a comprehensive program in the field, and will present the MUES study of music in emergency medicine as an example of how the arts can impact the quality and cost of healthcare. For more Appleton Events click here.
Get excited for Partners of the Park’s (POP) First Annual BATTLE OF THE BARNS!! Compete against other farms, win prizes and enjoy the gorgeous grounds at the Florida Horse Park. For official rules check the event page. 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. Get event updates here. Email events@flhorsepark.com for more info!
As the 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.
October 25th
Public Workshop about Rural Land Management Plan | McPherson Governmental Complex Auditorium | 4 PM
The County Commission will hold a public workshop to discuss how to develop a plan for the future of agriculture in Marion County. The Commission’s decision to hold the public workshop was the direct result of the strong support generated by the members of the Leadership Roundtable: Visioning the Future of Marion County’s Farmland, who met in May and July to discuss the impact of urbanization on the horse and agricultural industries in the county. Learn more about this movement here.
October 26th
Hosted by Florida Kids Helping Kids, the Marion County Fair will take place across from the Belleview Elks Club right off of E Cr25 and Cr 25A. The first weekend features Rescue Weekend with the second-weekend showmanship classes, creative arts tent and more. Expect craft and business contests, a Parade of Bikes on Nov 3rd, a Haunted House, and an ATV contest each supporting non-profit organizations in our community. Check the event page for updated details.
Ready to do the Time Warp again? After being stranded in a storm, newly engaged sweethearts Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon) must seek refuge at the bizarre residence of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, a transvestite scientist. As their innocence is lost, Brad and Janet meet a cast of wild characters, while Dr. Frank-N-Furter unveils his latest creation: a muscular Adonis named Rocky who is designed to give “absolute pleasure.” Dressing up and audience participation encouraged. Doors and bar will open at 10:30 PM, live music, spooky stuff, and fun until the main event kicks off at midnight. Sponsored by Ocala Family Attorney. Runtime: 106 minutes MPAA rating: R
Paddle the Rainbow River under the light of the moon. Launch from KP Hole and paddle to the head springs. Equipment provided. Fee $35 / person (equipment provided) or $20 / person using your own equipment. This event is best suited for those ages 18 and up. The launch will vary based on moonlight schedule.
October 27th
Hunt Country Horse Show | The Grand Oaks Resort Oct 27 – 28
Come see hunters & jumpers as they soar over fences and other obstacles! Events from 9 am to 5 pm at the Covered Arena, Fiber Arena & Racetrack Arena. No admission price, spectators welcome! Please visit the event page for more information.
Micanopy Florida is a scenic location for a fall arts and crafts festival. Known as the town that time forgot, this quiet little town bustles with activity as the vendors pour into town and fill Cholokka Boulevard. Many local artists, crafters, and musicians participate in the festival, as well as other artists from across the southeast. The tradition and ever-evolving quality of the show attracts a broad range of spectators. Along with the two hundred displays of arts and crafts there are many other attractions. The main stage plays host to a variety of good time music throughout the festival and an old-time auction of items donated by participating vendors on Saturday afternoon. Food and drinks available for purchase.
Phantasmagoria will excite you with an evening of haunted story telling told through live performances of “Phantastical” dance, explosive stage combat, and large-scale puppetry combined to create a tapestry of macabre and whimsical horror! NOTE: Due to its tales of horror and frightening moments suggested age is 8 and above.
As the 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.
October 28th
Pack Walk | Silver Springs State Park | 10 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 STRIDE for the last show of the season! Be sure to wear your costume and enter the costume class! STRIDE is an active riding and driving Dressage Club located in the Ocala, Florida area. In addition to hosting five schooling shows a year, STRIDE sponsors many clinics, workshops and activities geared for ALL dressage enthusiasts, from beginner to advanced, in Traditional Dressage, Driven Dressage, or Western Dressage.
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