A guide to our favorite monthly happenings and can’t-miss events
CANDLELIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO COLDPLAY
Ocala Civic Theatre
June 29
Candlelight concerts bring the magic of a live, multi-sensory musical experience. Get your tickets now to discover the music of Coldplay at Ocala Civic Theatre (The Marion Players, Inc.) under the gentle glow of candlelight. Learn more at feverup.com/m/148180
RED, WHITE AND OSO BLUE: A SALUTE TO INDEPENDENCE
Reilly Arts Center
June 30
Celebrate the Fourth of July with a patriotic-themed show by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra. A tribute to veterans, the show will feature classic American music and the stylings of John Phillip Sousa, composer of many American military marches. Ticket information can be found at bit.ly/red-white-oso
EN POINTE: EXPRESSIONS OF DANCE IN ART
Appleton Museum of Art
Through October 6th
This exhibit explores forms of dance and more through paintings, prints, photographs, sculptures, masks and costumes. More than 60 works from the permanent collection will be on display. Several videos of dance add to the experience and an interactive station invites visitors to add their own form of art in motion. From poetic paintings and drawings of the Ballet Russes by Ernst Oppler (German, 1867-1929) and prints of Native American dancers depicted by Alice Asmar (American, 1929-2021), to a full Panamanian Diablico Sucio costume (circa 1980) and a golden pair of traditional Thai headdresses (circa 1900), visitors can discover how performative arts have inspired the visual arts in cultures throughout history. To learn more, go to appletonmuseum.org
PATRIOTIC SKIES: A FOURTH OF JULY DRONE EXPERIENCE
Tuscawilla Park
July 4
Marvel at the synchronized movements of 300 drones as they paint the sky with colors and shapes. The inaugural event is hosted by the city of Ocala, in partnership with the Marion County Board of County Commissioners and the Ocala/Marion County Visitors and Convention Bureau. There will be entertainment, food trucks and a kids’ zone. Free and open to the public. Drone show: 9:30 p.m. To learn more, visit ocala.fl.gov/julyfourth
THE GREAT AMERICAN SOULBOOK
Reilly Arts Center
July 12
Journey through the decades of Motown, R&B and other music that inspired generations in this high energy tribute. The show is performed by the American Soul Band, featuring four lead choreographed male lead singers who will remind you of the Temptations with their smooth harmonies and moves while covering many of the biggest hitmakers. Deanna Carroll, who for years toured as Dianna Ross in Lady Supreme, is joined by background singers to bring the songs of the Ladies of Soul to life. Learn more at reillyartscenter.com
OCHELLA ART AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
Ocala Downtown Market
July 13
This event has been established to raise funds for the Lake Weir High School Band. It will feature student performers alongside local musicians. Local artisans will display works and there will be
food trucks and more. Learn more at fb.com/events/289479000785822
CHEF’S 100 FOOD PANTRY BENEFIT AND BAKE SALE
Forest United Methodist Church
July 13
Support the church and the nonprofit Project Hope with this benefit and bake sale. Enjoy a dinner of Polynesian pork with pineapple red pepper fried rice, with a drink included or donate the entrée value to Project Hope to help women and children experiencing homelessness. Baked goods will be available for purchase with proceeds to support the church’s food pantry. Go to square.link/u/wbg5m0pp for tickets and more information.
CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE: WISH YOU WERE HERE
Reilly Arts Center
July 14
Fans of classic rock will have the chance to see the Pink Floyd album Wish You Were Here performed live in concert. Visit reillyartscenter.com
TAYLOR SHINES: THE LASER SPECATCULAR
Reilly Arts Center
July 19
This laser light show will feature DJ Tiff and DJ JC playing the best of Taylor Swift. Swifties and non-Swifites can jam out at this special presentation of music and visuals, with video projection and 3-D special effects. Tickets can be purchased at reillyartscenter.com
HOT DOGS-A-JUMPING
Ocala Dog Ranch
July 27-28
This tournament is sanctioned by International Dog Sports. Dogs compete in a series of dock jumping events measuring agility, distance, and catching ability. Day-of event signups will be available. Go to ocaladogranch.com to learn more.
COMING UP:
4TH ANNUAL CHAD SMITH BENEFIT EXTREME RODEO
Florida Horse park
August 3
This event will feature some of the best riders and wranglers from all over the world, of all ages, as well as bulls from multiple southeastern stock contractors. There will be live music, a cornhole tournament, food and a full bar for guests 21 and older. Tickets start at $15 for presale. Call (352) 857-6716 or visit bit.ly/XtremeRodeo2024
