MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – As autumn paints Marion County in vibrant hues, Ocala comes alive with a series of festivals that celebrate the season’s best offerings. From lively music and culinary delights to family-friendly activities, here are the top fall festivals you won’t want to miss.
1. Two Rivers Music Festival & Food Truck Rally
On Saturday, Oct. 11, from 5 to 10 p.m., Ernie Mills Park in Dunnellon will host the Two Rivers Music Festival and Food Truck Rally. Set where the Rainbow and Withlacoochee rivers meet, this free event features live music spanning rock, jazz, country and folk. Attendees can also savor a variety of dishes from local food trucks, making it a perfect evening for music and culinary enthusiasts alike.
2. Ocala Arts Festival
The Ocala Arts Festival returns to historic downtown Ocala on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 25-26, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. More than 150 artists from across the county will showcase work ranging from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and ceramics. The festival is free and open to the public, with live performances and hands-on activities for children, making it a cultural highlight of the season.
3. Halloween Celebration at World Equestrian Center
Families can celebrate Halloween at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala on Friday, Oct. 31, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. The event includes trick-or-treating, a costume parade, cookie and pumpkin decorating and live entertainment. Children can enjoy face painting and balloon art, while parents explore the festive atmosphere, making it a spooktacular evening for all ages.
4. Mayhem Ranch Fall Festival
On Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 27 through Nov. 2, Mayhem Ranch invites families to its annual fall festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., with last admission at 5 p.m. The festival features a U-pick pumpkin patch, two corn mazes (including a kid-friendly version) and a variety of farm animals including sloths, kangaroos and zebras. Attendees can enjoy live music, pig races, sack races and other games.
5. Marion County Chili Cook-Off
The 44th Annual Marion County Chili Cook-Off will take place on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Southeastern Livestock Pavillion in Ocala. Local chefs compete for the title of best chili, while attendees enjoy a car show, live music and family-friendly activities. It’s a flavorful way to spend a fall Saturday in Marion County.
6. Ocala Food & Wine Festival
The Ocala Food & Wine Festival runs Friday through Sunday, Nov. 7-9, at the World Equestrian Center. Guests can enjoy chef demonstrations, cooking competitions and tastings of fine wines, beers and spirits. Proceeds benefit the Public Education Foundation of Marion County’s ProStart Program, supporting the next generation of culinary talent.
7. McIntosh 1890s Festival
Step back in time at the McIntosh 1890s Festival on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the McIntosh Historic District. The festival features vintage vendors, live music and traditional crafts, offering a nostalgic experience for history buffs and families alike.
8. Ocali Country Days
Ocali Country Days at the Silver River Museum in Ocala takes place Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 8-9, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. This living history festival offers demonstrations of blacksmithing, syrup making and other pioneer crafts, along with live music, historic displays and vendor booths.
9. Oktoberfest at Midtown Station
Celebrate German culture with the Ocala Oktoberfest on Saturday, Sept. 27, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. in downtown Ocala. Guests can enjoy traditional Bavarian fare, craft beer and live music throughout the day. Attendees are encouraged to dress in lederhosen or dirndls for a chance to win prizes. The event will feature classic Oktoberfest games, including the stein-holding competition, as well as additional family-friendly activities.