OCALA, FL (352today.com) – It’s beginning to look a lot like the start of peak equine season here in the 352, and what better way to kick things off than with a parade celebrating the depth and breadth of the region’s most recognizable industry?
This Saturday, Oct. 4, the Ocala Metro Chamber & Economic Partnership’s Equine Initiative‘s All-Breed Horse Capital of the World Parade will do just that, with a family-friendly showcase of the more than 70 breeds of horse represented in the community. Spectators and supporters are encouraged to come to Ocala’s Downtown Circle and Citizens’ Square to witness the free event.
“Being the only Chamber in the world that we know of that has an initiative like this is pretty special and we believe that this All-Breed Horse Parade through the downtown of ‘the horse capital’ best showcases the diversity of breeds who call Ocala/Marion County home,” said Louisa Barton, director of Equine Engagement. said in an official announcement. “While always keeping the goal in mind of introducing non-horse people and the next generation to as many of the over 70 breeds in our community, who make up a 4.3-billion-dollar industry, we are almost certain to also provide the best in equine edutainment.”
The festivities begin at 10 a.m., and members of the Ocala Police Department will be on hand to ensure a safe and entertaining experience, and provide a “rolling roadblock” for maximum safety and minimal traffic disruption. The parade will stage and begin in the field in front of the First Presbyterian Church at 511 SE 3rd St., and travel south on SE Tuscawilla Ave. before turning west on SE 5th St. and looping through downtown.