OCALA, FL (352today.com) – With February coming to a close and spring fast approaching, local celebrations are popping up. Ocala will be full of high-energy festivities this weekend with Black History celebrations, a fundraiser, markets and more. Here are the top picks for this weekend in the 352.

Melanin Market Pop-Up

  • What: Celebrate Black History Month at the Melanin Market Pop-Up where the community will come together for an evening of culture and history, sharing stories and art.
  • When: Friday, Feb. 27, 2026, from 5-8 p.m.
  • Where: Magnolia Art Exchange, 531 NE 1st Ave., Ocala.
  • Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

10th Annual VOCAL Furball

  • What: The annual VOCAL Furball is back with a theme of Western Extravaganza to support the Voices of Change Animal League. Appetizers and cocktails will be served during a silent auction before a three-course dinner and a live auction. The event is black-tie optional, though guests are encouraged to add something Western to their style with 93.7 K-Country’s Lewis Stokes emceeing for the third year.
  • When: Friday, Feb. 27 from 6-10 p.m.
  • Where: World Equestrian Center Expo Center 1, 1750 NW 80th Ave., Ocala.
  • Cost: $200. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Comic Fest at the Mall

  • What: Hit the Paddock Mall for Pokémon Day with vendors featuring classic comics and Pokémon-themed items. Cosplayers are welcome and encouraged.
  • When: Saturday, Feb. 28 starting at 10 a.m.
  • Where: Paddock Mall, 3100 SW College Rd., Ocala.
  • Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Rhythms of Africa: Dance & Culture

  • What: This weekend is the last chance to attend the Rhythms of Africa where the community can enjoy African dance, drumming and storytelling. Locals will have the opportunity to learn about culture and history through art.
  • When: Saturday, Feb. 28 starting at noon.
  • Where: Mary Sue Rich Community Center, 1821 NW 21st Ave., Ocala.
  • Cost: $15.

Learn more here.

Cast Iron Family Cooking

  • What: Fort King will be hosting Chef Kevin from Crones Cradle Conserve, who will be sharing his knowledge through hands-on learning. Guests will learn how to cook using cast iron before taking a sunset hike through the ground’s trails.
  • When: Saturday, Feb. 28 from 4-7:30 p.m.
  • Where: Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Ft. King St., Ocala.
  • Cost: $20 per person. Children under eight are free with adult ticket.

Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Easter Holiday Market

  • What: Enjoy a family-friendly afternoon of Easter celebrations with a lively market. There will be plenty of vendors selling handcrafted goods and themed items with food trucks nearby to grab a bite while shopping. A photo booth will be on-site with a candy egg toss for kids to partake in high-energy festivities.
  • When: Sunday, March 1 from 12-4 p.m.
  • Where: Ocala Downtown Market, 403 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala.
  • Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.