OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The Heart of the Park in Tuscawilla Park hosted its first annual Literary and Poetry Festival on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Poets, authors and artists from around Marion County came out to showcase books, arts, cards, calligraphy, magazines and represent local organizations. From authors such as Glenn Owen, Riza Ramos, M.A. Sciavillo-Lopez, Barry Lewis and Nathaniel Miller to local organizations such as Storytelling Nights, the College of Central Florida, Center for Independent Living and much more. Multiple events took place on stage with theatre performances, singing and a finale where local poets could read and share their poetry to be heard throughout the park.

Here’s a look at the festival and local artists.

  • Two women stand behind a table in a park with a lake in the background.
    The Center for Independant Living made an appearance at the Tuscawilla Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival, sharing information about their organization on April 11, 2026. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
  • A woman sits behind a table with multiple books scattered around.
    Author Ruth Nott featured multiple of her books at the Tuscawilla Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival on April 11, 2026. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
  • A women sits at a small stand with books on top of it. Behind her is a literary festival and market.
    Riza Ramos featured her poetry books at the Tuscawilla Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival on April 11, 2026. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
  • A girl holds her book behind a table in front of a lake.
    Siri Hutton featured her mermaid-themed book at the Tuscawilla Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival on April 11, 2026. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
  • A man sits behind a table with books scattered around. Behind him is train tracks and a lake.
    Author Royce Wilson features his true crime books at the Tuscawilla Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival on April 11, 2026. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
  • A woman stands behind a table with books scattered around. Behind her are railroad tracks and a lake.
    M.A. Sciavillo featured her time travel books at the Tuscawilla Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival on April 11, 2026. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
  • A man holds two copies of his books in his hands while standing in front of a lake. The books are titled Go Papa Go.
    Glenn Owen showcases his book, Go Papa Go, at the Tuscawilla Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival on April 11, 2026. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today
  • A mother and son stand behind a table filled with books and cards. Behind them is a banner that reads, "Friends are Kind by JD."
    Author of Friends Are Kind poses for a picture at the Tuscawilla Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival on April 11, 2026, sharing their desire to donate books to children in need. Courtesy: Amber Battillo/352today