Memorial Day 2025: Things To Do in Ocala/Marion County

Support our veterans by attending Memorial Day events in Ocala, honoring local and national heroes with an array of things to do.

Memorial Day in Ocala offers locals and visitors alike the opportunity to commemorate veterans in the United States Army. Whether you’re spending this holiday with family or diving deeper into the historic side of Ocala, we’ve got you covered with a variety of Memorial Day events for this year. From participating in exercise challenges to looking through American history that’s etched in granite, uncover a wide range of things to do for this Memorial Day.

Memorial Day Events

The entrance sign of the Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park.

Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park

This Memorial Day weekend, spend time at one of the area's most meaningful landmarks. Veterans Memorial Park is home to more than 5,000 memorial bricks, 200 benches, and 100 plaques—each honoring those who served. Visit the Medal of Honor monument and presidential memorial, learn about three centuries of military history, and explore unique exhibits like the sculpture "Hero" on the Horse Fever®- Painted Statue Trail.

While you're there, stop inside the Veterans Exhibit & Education Center, where you’ll find authentic uniforms, historic newspaper clippings, and memorabilia from World War II and beyond.

  • Location: 2601 E Fort King Street
  • Open Memorial Day Weekend
  • Admission: Free

Cross Program Tribute

Each year, Veterans Memorial Park fills with personalized white crosses as part of the Cross Program, honoring veterans from around the country. These beautiful displays stand throughout Memorial Day weekend and are available for community members to purchase in memory of a loved one.

  • Location: 2601 E Fort King Street
  • When: Displayed throughout Memorial Day Weekend

Cannon Farms: Memorial Day on the Farm

Looking for some good old-fashioned family fun? Head to Cannon Farms for a Memorial Day celebration filled with fresh watermelon and sweet corn, live music, local vendors, flower picking, and fun activities for kids like hayrides, face painting, and a petting zoo. There’s even a caricature artist on-site! Learn more here.

  • Location: 11801 SW 16th Ave, Ocala
  • When: Sunday, May 25, 2025 | Live music 12–3 p.m.
  • Admission: $5 (includes hayride)

Petting Zoo of Ocala – Memorial Day Monday

The Petting Zoo of Ocala will be open on Memorial Day Monday for an extra day of fun. Active-duty military and veterans receive discounted admission with ID—perfect for a low-key, family-friendly afternoon with animals.

  • Location: 11100 SW 16th Ave, Ocala
  • When: Monday, May 26, 2025
  • Admission: Free for active-duty and veterans

May Dressage at World Equestrian Center

If you’re in town for the long weekend and love equestrian sports, don’t miss the May Dressage show at World Equestrian Center. This prestigious competition features top national and international riders, with events spanning from May 22 to May 25.

  • Location: 1750 NW 80th Ave, Ocala
  • When: May 22–25, 2025
  • Admission: Free Spectator Admission
Bartender behind bar pouring beer from tap at a busy bar/restaurant in Ocala/Marion Florida

Plan Your Weekend

Hosting a backyard BBQ? Stock up on craft beer from one of our local breweries, or book a tour at a local distillery like Fish Hawk Spirits to see how local spirits are made. Tours run Thursday through Sunday, making Memorial Day weekend the perfect time to explore the area's food and drink scene.

Looking for more Memorial Day ideas? Explore our guide on commemorating our military heroes with veteran-friendly activities and discounts. Expand your itinerary by finding restaurants, places to stay, and family-centered attractions.

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