OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Coming to the need of those in times of crisis, the World Equestrian Center (WEC) opened its doors for evacuees during Hurricane Helene, with more than 1,200 horses sheltering during the Category 4 hurricane.

That figure more than doubled as more than 2,400 horses sheltered at the Ocala-based facility during Hurricane Milton.

“We’re grateful to have provided shelter for more than 2,400 horses and staging space for our linemen and first responders as they prepared to deploy where help was needed most,” WEC posted on its Facebook page. “We want to extend our deepest thanks to our exceptional team for their hard work and dedication in supporting these efforts. Their commitment ensured everything ran smoothly during such a critical time. Our community, and all those impacted across the state, are in our thoughts. Please stay safe.”

Now that the storm has passed, WEC has a lineup of events for every taste and age.

United States Equestrian Federation/United States Dressage Competition

Equestrian sport will resume at WEC, featuring the United States Equestrian Federation/United States Dressage Federation Competition on Oct. 19 and 20, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.

The Second Annual Hocus Pawcus Canine Costume Contest

WEC urges your to “dress your pup in their Halloween best” and join the parade on Oct. 26 from 5-7 p.m. in Expo Center 2 for a chance to win cash prizes, dog swag, and WEC merchandise. Winners will be announced live at 6:30 PM.

Enjoy a day with your furry friends, featuring canine vendors, entertainment, and fall favorites from WEC concessions and cash bars. Meet adoptable dogs from VOCAL and celebrate the spooky season at this fun, free event!

Pre-register your dog online; walk-up participants are welcome as space allows.

Important Notes:

  • Dogs must wear a collar with ID tags and be leashed at all times.
  • Dogs must be up to date on vaccinations.
  • No intact male dogs, female dogs in heat, or puppies under 8 weeks old.
  • Owners are responsible for their dogs’ actions and any damages.
  • Owners must clean up after their dogs.
The Fourth Annual Ocala Food & Wine Festival

You don’t have to travel the world to sample fine dining with the Ocala Food & Wine Festival presented by Lugano Diamonds is scheduled for Nov. 1 through Nov. 3.  This is a 21+ event and you can purchase tickets in advance.  Proceeds benefit the Public Education Foundation of Marion County ProStart Program.

Featured talent includes:

  • Chef Lorena Garcia of Chica Restaurant
  • Pitmaster Rashad Jones, Big Lee’s BBQ
  • Chef Marc Murphy, The Food Networks’ “Chopped”
  • Chef Esther Choi, mŏkbar in Brooklyn
  • Junior Chef Michael Seegobin, Master Chef Junior
  • WEC Pastry Chef Yohann Le Bescond
  • WEC Master Sommelier Roland Micu
  • WEC Executive Chef Jonathan Martini
Ocala Winter Wonderland

Stroll through WEC as more than a million sparkling lights illuminate your way.  Ocala Winter Wonderland returns Friday, Nov. 29 through Monday, Dec.23.  The halls of the Grand Plaza will be fully dressed with holiday cheer.

Some of the showstoppers you won’t want to miss include:

  • A walk-through Christmas tree
  • Lighted carriage
  • Santa Claus
  • Festive entertainment
  • Singers
  • Face painters
  • Balloon Artists
  • Caricaturists
  • Breakfast with Santa
  • Tinsel Trot 5K
2025 Winter Spectacular Show Series

A familiar face on the WEC Ocala winter and summer show jumping circuits, Williston’s Aaron Vale, was on the U.S. team that finished sixth in the Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI) Longines League of Nations final in Barcelona, Spain Oct. 6. The second leg of the FEI Longines League of Nations series returns WEC March 18-23, 2025, closing out the Winter Spectacular Series which begins Jan. 1, 2025.