Ocala Ready for Cattle Drive

While many destinations are still trying to shed the cold weather, Ocala/Marion County is ushering in the spring season with a plethora of activities that encourages visitors to explore this North Central Florida county. Visitors drawn to the area can experience the natural spring water that flows in the Ocala National Forest or the various horse activities that provide the area with the moniker “Horse Capital of the World^TM” but it’s the destination’s festivals and events that keep guests coming back to Ocala/Marion County, Florida year after year.

Have you ever seen cattle roaming along downtown city streets? Don’t miss your chance to witness a real Florida cattle drive in Ocala/Marion County. The annual Cattle Drive and Cowboy Round-Up on February 10^th celebrates Ocala’s farming and ranching heritage, while providing a unique experience that visitors will be talking about long after the cattle have cleared the city streets. Set against the backdrop of Historic Downtown Ocala, authentic cowboys and cowgirls mount horses and let the cattle lead the way as crowds gather along the streets for a glimpse of how things were once done the “cowboy way”. The final destination is Tuscawilla Park, located in the heart of downtown Ocala, where the fun continues as visitors are greeted with live music, vendors, and food trucks, old-timey games for the kids and cowboy demonstrations.

For guests looking for a sweet treat, the annual Habitat for Humanity Strawberry Festival draws an array of visitors to the area each year for both the celebration of delicious strawberries and the great cause behind the festival. This annual fundraiser helps Habitat for Humanity provide cost effective options for families to build new homes; but it’s the fun festivities that brings families and visitors together for the day. March 3^rd marks the return of this annual event and offers everything from a car show, live music, and vendor village, to lots of food options, countless games and

While many participants have been training for years, the HITS Triathlon series encourages those starting out to take part in the novice participatory triathlon – which will feature a 100 meter swim, 3 mile bike ride and a 1 mile run designed for first timers trying to become actively involved. The loop-layout design allows for families and spectators to line the course on March 31^st to cheer on athletes as they make their way through the lush landscapes and lake views.

Not ready to make the leap into full-fledged triathlons but committed to staying active while visiting? If peddling your way through city streets that transform into country roads is more your speed, the Ride For The Arts Gran Fondo happening on April 21^st is a must experience event in Ocala/Marion County. The Marion Cultural Alliance hosts this annual event as a fundraiser to support the arts and cultural community, as well as an opportunity to promote a healthy lifestyle. This cycling event offers a ride for every level, including an escorted ride for kids and families wishing to participate. Serious cyclers will enjoy the traditional elements of starting en masse within the city limits and venturing to quiet, scenic routes that allows for the speed and agility of the sport to take shape. The bike route offers unparalleled views of the farm land for which the destination is known, including oak lined roads that provide shade, rolling hills and horses in open pastures.

Whether you are hitting the trails, cycling through scenic roads or training to compete in an endurance challenge, Ocala/Marion County has the activities to keep you moving. With a multitude of outdoor activities and sporting events unique to the destination, visitors can immerse themselves in the active Florida lifestyle that provides endless hours of fun for visitors.

About: Outdoor adventures abound. Ocala/Marion County offers countless opportunities to connect with nature and relax in a classic Florida destination. Home to the Ocala National Forest, the second largest national forest in the state, as well as historic Silver Springs. This unique destination is ideal for both leisure and business travelers who seek authentic outdoor experiences. Known as the Horse Capital of the World™ with more than 700 horse farms, the County boasts a legacy of breeding and training world champion thoroughbreds. Centrally located less than two hours from Orlando, Daytona Beach and Tampa, Ocala/Marion County is a must-stop when visiting Central Florida. For more information on Ocala/Marion County, visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter, or call toll-free 1.888.FL.OCALA.