Spring Festivals, Flowers, and Family Fun!

March madness is almost upon us! Be prepared for a calendar jam packed with so many great activities and events that there just isn't time for you to enjoy them all. For those who have recently relocated or are planning to join our community, here are a few of my favorites I'd like to share:

March 1-5  Ocala Culinary Festival 
The inaugural Ocala Culinary Festival brings five days of culinary delights - proving that while Ocala may be a "small town" -  we have a really BIG appetite.  Each event has it's own unique flavor and locale, celebrating master chefs from around the country and our dedicated, award winning local chefs too! Tickets are still available for many events, including the grand finale at Tuscawilla Park on March 5th - the Grand Tasting!  Learn more and purchase your tickets at www.ocalacuinaryfestival.com 

March 4  4th Annual Habitat Strawberry Festival
Be prepared to enjoy live entertainment, vendors, pie eating contests, car show, and of course lots and lots of strawberries!  Festivities occur at the McPherson Complex in Ocala from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.  I recommend arriving early if you desire to purchase flats of strawberries.  This fundraising event supports Habitat for Humanity's mission to strengthen communities, build hope, and provide dignified housing solutions.   Your participation raises funds to build a home for a family in need located here in Ocala / Marion County.    You can preorder your strawberry flats here:  www.habitatocala.org

March 9 - 12 Live Oak International
As one of the largest Combined Driving events in the country, the competition attracts some of the best drivers, trainers, coaches, and owners from around the world.  This event occurs on one of the most beautiful properties in our community and includes many social and competitive activities.  Don't miss the exciting Cross Country - Marathon Phase on Saturday, March 11th!   A complete schedule and event details is available at www.liveoakinternational.com

March 11-12 Marion County Master Gardeners' Spring Festival
Bring the entire family and learn from the experts at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion from 8 a.m. -5 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Sunday.  This festival features talks and seminars on all things green, a plethora of vendors for all of your landscaping needs, and even a Kids' Gardening Zone.  For more information visit:  www.marioncountyfl.org

March 18  A Day To Remember - LIVE in Tuscawilla Park
The City of Ocala will kick of their 2017 "Feel Downtown LIVE" concert series with Ocala natives "A Day to Remember".  Show starts at 7 p.m.   Both General and VIP Admission tickets are available for advance purchase: ​ www.eventbrite.com

March 24-25 Southeastern Pro Rodeo
This year's entertainment at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion will include one of favorite acts - John Payne aka "the One Arm Bandit" who maneuvers his horse at top speed with his legs while cracking a bullwhip and herding wild and woolly livestock ON TOP of his trailer (nope that is not a typo).  Don't miss the excitement starting at 7:30pm both nights!  For a full list of advance ticket outlets (discounted) visit:  www.ocalarodeo.com

March 31 - April 1 Blooming with MAX
Visit a floral show like no other!    This event is hosted by the Pioneer Garden Club of Ocala and will occur at Historic Ocala Union Station, the future home of the Magnolia Art Xchange.  Inspired by the Magnolia Art Xchange project, the Pioneer Garden Club has selected special themes for all floral classes.  These unique arrangements will all be executed in the spirit of work by master artists:  Calder, Dali, Mondrain, Monet, Rodin, and Warhol.  Learn more at: www.maxocala.org