It’s the most wonderful time of the year—particularly here in the 352. Gorgeous weather, vibrant culture and the perfect balance of downtown charm and wide-open spaces make our community its own unique winter wonderland. From beloved traditional events to unique opportunities and experiences, there’s never a lack of reasons to celebrate the season with friends and neighbors new and old. We’ve collected the best of those opportunities and experiences right here, but keep checking back—we’ll be adding more events, news and fun right through to 2026!

Holiday Guide
1 month ago
The 70th Annual Ocala Christmas Parade: What to Know, Where to Go

It’s almost time for what’s traditionally been the biggest holiday event in Ocala–and the biggest nighttime Christmas parade in Florida.

A garland with decorative red, gold and green Christmas bulbs is strung along a fence surrounding a white gazebo. In the foreground is a graphic that reads, "Santa Greeting | Holiday Festival | Christmas Parade. WEEKEND TOP PICKS. Events Coming this Weekend." Christmas lights hang from the top of the graphic with Santa on the right and a small marching band on the left.
Entertainment
1 month ago
352 WEEKEND TOP PICKS: Santa Greetings and Holiday Celebrations

Free and low-cost events to fill the weekend with holiday festivities and exciting celebrations of the season.

A group of kids pose for a picture next to a golf cart decorated to look like a gingerbread house.
Holiday Guide
1 month ago
Golf Cart Parade Brings Holiday Cheer to Downtown Ocala

The annual Christmas Golf Cart Parade brought festive fun to Historic Downtown Ocala.

Community
1 month ago
Lake County Clerk’s Office Raises Funds, Collects Donations for Local Nonprofit LovExtension

The Lake County Clerk’s Office collected both gifts and monetary donations for Bay and Lake Pharmacy’s “Santa Loves Seniors” drive for Tavares nonprofit LovExtension.

Holiday Guide
1 month ago
Santa & Mrs. Claus to Bring Holiday Cheer to The Arc of Alachua County December 12

Santa Claus and his lovely wife will take some time out of their busy holiday schedule to visit the clients, staff and donors of The Arc of Alachua County this Friday.

A group of people walking besides a decorated trailer with haybale designs.
Holiday Guide
1 month ago
Santa, Sunshine & Small-Town Magic at the Dunnellon Christmas Parade

Dunnellon welcomed the season in true Florida style as glowing floats, marching bands and local organizations filled Pennsylvania Avenue for the annual Christmas parade.

A white sign with blue accents reads, "294 Marion Oaks Community Center." In the background, bushes create a line separating a sidewalk and the community Center. Christmas decorations can be seen in front of the building.
Entertainment
2 months ago
Light Up Marion Oaks: A Bright Event for a Small Community (SLIDESHOW)

The Marion Oaks Community Center illuminated the area in vibrant lights at Light Up Marion Oaks for a festive season.

A illuminated ceiling of Christmas lights hanging overhead.
Holiday Guide
2 months ago
Holiday Magic Returns to World Equestrian Center’s Winter Wonderland

The World Equestrian Center’s Winter Wonderland brings holiday lights and activities back to WEC for the season–though some guests felt the event fell short for the price.

Holiday Guide
2 months ago
Holiday Comedy ‘A Tuna Christmas’ is Back, Officially a Seasonal Tradition at Ocala Civic Theatre

OCALA, FL (352today.com) – If you missed it last year, “A Tuna Christmas”–the middle […]

A woman in a gold dress stands in the foreground while people in suits are blurred in the background.
Holiday Guide
2 months ago
Holiday Style in the 352: Where to Find Festive Formal Attire This Season

These local shops and boutiques are your one-stop-shop for holiday attire around the 352.