OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The first weekend of 2025 brings many opportunities: learning hobbies, exploring new places, or just finally slowing down after a busy holiday season. Whatever your speed this weekend, our top picks will have just the thing to do.

Watch a movie at the Marion Theatre
  • What: Start the year with an iconic film at Ocala’s iconic Marion Theatre. This weekend’s lineup features Casablanca, The Matrix, The Princess Bride, and Toy Story.
  • When: Times vary, check out the Marion Theatre’s schedule for showings
  • Where: 50 S Magnolia Avenue, Ocala
  • Cost: $5
Free First Saturday at the Appleton
  • What: Explore the permanent collection, special exhibitions, and enjoy family-friendly activities around the museum. The holiday exhibits are still on display, and there will be showings of Frozen at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
  • When: Saturday, January 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Where: 4333 E Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala
  • Cost: Free

|LEARN MORE: Appleton Museum to host Free First Saturday celebration this weekend

Molly of Denali Exhibit at the Discovery Center
  • What: This Discovery Center exhibit, based on the PDS Kids series Molly of Denali, allows kids to explore the great outdoors of Alaska by experiencing flying a bush plane, navigating a snow maze, caring for sled dogs, and more. This weekend is the last opportunity for this exhibit.
  • When: The Discovery Center is open Friday, January 3 and Saturday, January 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Where: 701 NE Sanchez Avenue, Ocala
  • Cost: $8 per person
Take a class at Picasso’s Palette
  • What: Those looking to pick up a new hobby in the new year can try this clay building class, where artists will sculpt their very own Highland Cow out of clay. You can also explore other projects at the studio, including pottery painting, canvas painting, and fused glass art.
  • When: The clay building class is on Saturday, January 4 at 3 p.m. Picasso’s Palette is open on Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sunday from noon to 7 p.m., for other projects.
  • Where: 106 SW 17th Street, Ocala
  • Cost: $38 per class participant. Other projects vary.

Discover more things to do in North Central Florida by browsing the 352today events page.