MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – This weekend features plenty of outdoor activities for enjoying the cool weather blowing into Marion County. A truck and tractor pull, markets, chili challenge, chalk walk and pet walk will be filling the weekend with lively activities. Here are the top picks for this weekend’s events in the 352.
Ocala Truck and Tractor Pull
- What: This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Ocala Truck and Tractor Pull with multiple classes of vehicles to showcase. The event will feature food, merchandise and collectables for purchase.
- When: Friday-Saturday, Jan. 23-24 from 3 p.m.-9:30 p.m. and Sunday, Jan. 25 starting at noon.
- Where: Marion County Agricultural Center, 2232 NE Jacksonville Rd., Ocala.
- Cost: Friday and Saturday are $20 for adults, $15 for ages 7-15 and Sunday is $25 for adults and free for ages 15 and under.
Learn more here.
Last Saturday of the Month Vendors Market and Plant Sale
- What: Local artisans, small businesses, vibrant plants and a plant nursery will be filling the air at the Last Saturday of the Month market. Guests are encouraged to bring wagons for shopping needs. The event is pet-friendly with family-friendly seating available throughout the property.
- When: Saturday, Jan. 24 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
- Where: Laly Acres Nursery, 8384 SW 38th Ave., Ocala.
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
PAW Chili Challenge & Hub-Cat Car Show
- What: Members of the animal rescue community and locals will be competing in a chili challenge during the sixth annual PAW Chili Challenge with special prizes for participating animal rescues. Vendors will be available in the area for shopping as well as raffles and food trucks for continued entertainment.
- When: Saturday, Jan. 24 starting at 10 a.m.
- Where: Lake Lillian, SE Robinson Rd., Belleview.
- Cost: $8 for tasting bracelet and voting tickets.
Learn more here.
OTrak Chalk Walk
- What: This year marks the Ocala Cultural Arts’ third annual Chalk Walk where guests can walk along the OTrak to watch professional and student chalk artists draw for Best in Show, second place and People’s Choice. Following the competition will be announcement of the winners at 4:30 p.m. Guests can join in drawing around the art park for $5 or browse the non-profit, local artisans and craftsman vendors along the area with food trucks on site. Local performers will be providing live music for a spirited event.
- When: Saturday, Jan. 24 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Where: Tuscawilla Park, 213 NE 5th St., Ocala.
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
Pack Walk
- What: Marion County Animal Services will be leading a guided walk by a ranger through Silver Springs State Park where guests can take shelter dogs for a walk while giving them attention and exercise. All dogs will be adoptable on the same day.
- When: Sunday, Jan. 25 from 9 a.m.-10:30 a.m.
- Where: Silver Springs State Park, 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala.
- Cost: $2 per person for state park admission.
Learn more here.
The Ocala Bridal, Prom & Event Market
- What: Whether looking for bridal outfits, prom dresses or fashions for other coordinated events, this market will feature a variety of themed vendors. The event will be host to a fashion show, raffles and themed decorations for an afternoon of fun and shopping. Food trucks will be onsite for snacks and meals.
- When: Sunday, Jan. 25 from noon-4 p.m.
- Where: The Ocala Downtown Market, 403 SE Osceola Ave., Ocala
- Cost: Free to attend.
Learn more here.
