352 WEEKEND EVENT TOP PICKS OCT. 2-4: Art, Carnival and Pets

Kick off October with fall events for a festive start to the harvest season.

A scarecrow against a wooden stand. Fake red and orange leaves hanging from wooden stand.

352todayAmber Battillo/352todayFrom the first Artwalk of the season to an afternoon showing of 'The Exorcist,' there's something going on for everyone in the 352 this weekend.

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – This weekend kicks off October with plenty of fall fun. From a seasonal carnival to a pet-loving holiday market, there’s plenty of family-friendly fun to enjoy in North Central Florida. Check out these top event picks in the 352.

First Friday Artwalk

What: Support local artisans during the first of the monthly art walks for the 2026-2027 season. More than 40 artisans will host booths throughout the square, showcasing and selling artwork. Live music and dance performances will be taking place under the historic gazebo with more live music scattered around the square.
When: Friday, Oct. 2 from 6-9 p.m.
Where: Ocala Historic Downtown Square, 1 SE Broadway St., Ocala.
Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

What: The world’s largest annual event bringing awareness to and raising funds for Alzheimer’s Disease. After the Promise Garden ceremony, walkers show their solidarity and express their support for research with the Walk.
When: Saturday, Oct. 3. Registration opens at 9 a.m.; Promise Garden ceremony @ 10 a.m. with the Walk immediately after.
Where: Tuscawilla Park, 829 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala.
Cost: Free/raised donations.

Learn more here.

Classics and Cocktails—”The Exorcist”

What: William Friedkin’s 1973 possession classic opens a month-long run at the historic Marion Theatre. Rated R, 132 minutes: a mother, two priests, and a pea-soup problem.
When: Saturday, Oct. 3 at 4:30 p.m.
Where: Marion Theatre, 50 S. Magnolia Ave., downtown Ocala
Cost: $5

Learn more here.

Marion County Parks & Recreation Fall Carnival

What: Marion County Parks & Recreation will be hosting their 8th Annual Fall Carnival to celebrate the onset of autumn. Guests can enjoy fall-themed games, haunted stalls, trick or treat trail, a petting zoo and hayrides. Live music will be performed throughout the event along with a chance to receive giveaways. Food trucks will be on-site for guests to enjoy in-between the activities. This event will support Bring the Harvest Home, taking non-perishable donations.
When: Saturday, Oct. 3 from 5-8 p.m.
Where: Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd., Ocala.
Cost: Free to attend. Youth activity wristbands are $5 or donate five non-perishable donations.

Learn more here.

Birds on a Kill at Mutiny

What: New Smyrna Beach post-punk sludge metal band Birds on a Kill hits downtown Ocala with two local openers: hard rockers XPEAKERBOX and rock/punk Love Kills Joy.
When: Saturday, Oct. 3. Doors 8 p.m., show 9 p.m.
Where: Mutiny, 46 S. Magnolia Ave., next to the Marion Theatre
Cost: $5 cover, 21+

Learn more here.

Woof-O-Ween

What: Pet lovers and pets alike are invited to join Woof-O-Ween with vendors featuring items from puppy treats to pet products and services. Pets are welcome and are encouraged to dress in their holiday best for festive, tail-waging fun.
When: Sunday, Oct. 4 from noon-4 p.m.
Where: Ocala Downtown Market, 403 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala.
Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.