OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The first weekend of October marks the start of “spooky season,” and North Central Florida is embracing the Halloween spirit. From fall festivals and costume contests to haunted attractions, the area is alive with festive excitement.
Whether your idea of Halloween fun is dressing up with your best ghoul-friends, feeling like you stepped straight into a scary movie, or digging in on all the pumpkin-flavored treats, our weekend top picks have something for everyone.
Marion County Parks and Recreation’s Annual Carnival: Kick off the Halloween season at this annual event on Saturday, October 5 from 5 to 9 p.m. The carnival will feature family-fun like games, music, a petting zoo, haunted stalls, bounce houses, and plenty of candy. Attendance is free. You can purchase youth activity bands for all of the event’s fun for $5 or a donation of five non-perishable goods for the food drive. The event is held at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, located at 2232 NE Jacksonville Road in Ocala.
Kirby Farm Scary Train: Check out one of North Central Florida’s favorite haunts any weekend in October. Kirby Farm will have seven full attractions including woods trails, haunted houses, and mazes every Friday and Saturday from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the gate. This event might not be suitable for young children. Kirby Family Farm’s address is 19650 NE 30th Street in Williston.
The Rocket Man Show: Elton John’s official 70s body double Rus Anderson takes the stage on Saturday, October 5 at 2:30 and 7 p.m. This show will have all the hits, costumes, and fierce piano playing of an original Elton John performance. The concert is at the Orange Blossom Opry, located at 16439 SE 138th Terrace in Weirsdale.
Ghouls Night Out: Treat yourself to a night out at this market on Saturday, October 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. Ghouls Night Out features female-owned businesses offering everything from boutique shopping to sweets to art and on-the-spot services. Food trucks and drink options will also be available. This event is free to attend and is held at the Ocala Downtown Market pavilion, located at 403 SE Osceola Avenue.
Sensory-Friendly Saturday: The holiday season can be overwhelming for kids, with all the lights, decorations, and activities. Take a break from the busyness with a screening of Coco at the Marion Theatre on Saturday, October 5 at 12 p.m. This screening will have sensory-friendly adjustments including safe volume, dim lighting, and film breaks. Tickets are $5, and the theatre’s address is 50 South Magnolia Avenue in Ocala.
First Friday Art Walk: Since September was rained out, Friday, October 4 marks the return of First Friday Art Walk for the season! From 6 to 9 p.m. browse artist displays, enjoy live music and hands-on activities, and pop into downtown businesses with extended hours. The art walk is located throughout downtown Ocala and is free to explore.
Discover more things to do in North Central Florida by browsing the 352today events page.