WEEKEND TOP PICKS: Spring Festivals, Racing and Irish Tradition

Celebrate a weekend of spring festivals, Irish performances and a race show in the 352.

By Amber Battillo March 12, 2026 3:00 pm

A brown duck with red around the eyes sits on the edge of water on a grassy downward hill. In the foreground is a brown box with a green border. White and green text inside of the box read, "Spring Festivals | Tour of Destruction | Irish Performances. WEEKEND TOP PICKS. Events Coming this Weekend." — 352todayAmber Battillo/352todayThis weekend is full of spring celebrations, auto racing and Irish performances.

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Mark your calendars with selections from a full list of lively events with Spring Break and St. Patrick’s Day just around the corner. From spring expos and festivals to St. Paddy’s Day live performances of tradition music, locals can celebrate the season. Here are the top picks in the 352 this weekend.

Spring Eats and Artisan Expo

What: S&G Events will be hosting this expo featuring handmade crafts and goods by local artisans, face painting, games and activities for everyone to enjoy. Food vendors will be on-site with festive, spring foods, along with a live DJ for a high-energy day of supporting artistry. This event benefits The Arc Center’s programs as they ask guests for donations of scratch canvases, portrait canvases and non-perishable snacks.
When: Friday, March 14 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: The ARC of Marion, 2800 SE Maricamp Rd, Ocala.
Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Tour of Destruction

What: Enjoy a high-energy slate of auto races at the Ocala Speedway with a variety of decorated vehicles for an exciting evening. The lineup of showcases includes a school bus figure eight race, monster trucks, war off I-4 dirt enduro, boat trailer race, flagpole race, SXS racing and more. A pit-crew party will take place halfway through the evening before the races begin.
When: Saturday, March 14 starting at 3 p.m. with the race beginning at 6 p.m.
Where: Ocala Speedway, 9050 NW Gainesville Rd, Ocala.
Cost: $39.32 for adults, $13.44 for children ages three-12, free for ages two and under.

Learn more and purchase tickets here.

Marion Gardeners Spring Festival

What: The Master Gardeners are celebrating 30 years of spring this weekend with their plant and garden expo. This festival will feature volunteer plant and garden decor vendors, educational seminars, local agriculture experts and a kids’ zone for everyone to enjoy.
When: Saturday, March 14 from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sunday, March 15 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Where: Southeastern Livestock Pavillion, 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd, Ocala.
Cost: $3 for adults, free for ages 12 and under.

Learn more here.

Live Irish Folk Music

What: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day weekend with a live performance honoring traditional Irish music. This timeless sonic tour of Irish folk music will be performed by Scuttered the Bruce, and guests will be immersed in a world of classics. The performance will take place in the beer garden, where guests can also purchase specialty drinks for the evening.
When: Saturday, March 15 from 3-6 p.m.
Where: First Magnitude Brewing Company, 1220 SE Veitch St, Gainesville
Cost: Free to attend.

Learn more here.

Celic Angels Ireland

What: Enjoy an evening of festive flair with traditional Irish performances by Heavenly Celtic Angels, the Trinity Ensemble, and the champion Celtic Knights Dancers. These performances will be showcasing more than 30 classic and contemporary Irish songs.
When: Sunday, March 16 starting at 6 p.m.
Where: Circle Square Cultural Commons, 8395 SW 80th St, Ocala.
Cost: $28-60 depending on package.

Learn more here.

Local

3 hours ago

Questions Remain as Dunnellon City Council Holds Public Hearing on Railroad Tie Fire

Dunnellon City Council held a public hearing with much of the discussion centering around what should be done concerning the Feb. 1, 2026, railroad tie fire, and if it was possible to join Marion County’s injunction.