OCALA, FL (352 Today) – Each Saturday, the Ocala Downtown Market brings together farmers, artisans and small business owners in a lively open-air venue that draws Ocala residents and visitors to the heart of the city.

The Ocala Downtown Market serves as one of several regular public events held in the downtown Ocala area. Operating year-round from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., the market is held under a large, covered pavilion just steps away from the historic downtown square. The space offers both shade and structure for the wide array of vendors who set up shop each week, rain or shine.

Promotional signage for the Sunstruck Florals stand advertises fresh flowers and seedlings with a view of marketgoers and other vendors in the background.
Local vendor, Sunstruck Florals, sells flower cuts and seedlings underneath the market’s main awning. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today

No entrance fee is charged, and parking is available on-site and in surrounding public lots. The site is accessible to people of all ages and abilities, and the venue is also pet-friendly, offering shaded seating and water stations for animals.

The market is designed to promote local commerce and support small-scale entrepreneurship in Marion County and beyond. Dozens of vendors rotate throughout the season, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, baked goods, organic products, clothing, plants and gourmet foods. Food trucks and mobile coffee carts provide convenient dining options for those looking to eat while they shop.

An array of apples, oranges and other fruits are laid out on a table with a red tablecloth in baskets.
A local fresh produce stand sells assorted vegetables and fruits. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
A close-up of bottles of packaged honey sit on a table with a white tablecloth.
Assorted bottles of honey from Southern Honey Co. LLC awaiting to be purchased by marketgoers. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today

Beyond its role as a shopping destination, the Ocala Downtown Market plays an important part in enhancing downtown foot traffic and creating a welcoming atmosphere for families and tourists. Its location encourages visitors to explore nearby restaurants, boutiques and cultural landmarks, contributing to the economic vitality of the city center.

Whether stopping by for fresh vegetables, a handmade candle or a stroll with a furry companion in tow, the Ocala Downtown Market offers a snapshot of Ocala’s weekend rhythm – complete with coffee in hand and local flair at every booth.

A table stocked with olive oil, packaged pita chips and salsas and hummus.
Local food vendor, Jerusalem Street Food, offers homemade pita chips and assorted dips and sauces. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
Homemade jewelry such as necklaces and earrings sit on tiered shelves and tables with decorative plants.
A local jewelry crafter sells homemade necklaces and earrings. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
A food vendor advertises food on a chalkboard sign. The vendor, Grandpa's Grove, offers baked pretzels and cinnamon rolls with a blue teddy bear with a pretzel sit on a stood greeting customers.
One of many local food vendors, Grandpa’s Grove, offer snacks such as freshly baked pretzels and cinnamon rolls. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today