Memorial Day 2026: Things To Do in Ocala/Marion County
Support our veterans by attending Memorial Day events in Ocala and honoring local and national heroes.
Memorials & Monuments
Memorial Day in Ocala/Marion County offers locals and visitors the opportunity to pay respects to U.S. military personnel. Whether you’re spending this holiday with family or diving deeper into the historic side, we’ve got you covered with a variety of Memorial Day events for this year.
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
Memorial Day Events
May Day Barrel Bonanza
The 3rd Annual May Day Barrel Bonanza returns over Memorial Day Weekend, bringing top barrel racing competitors from across the Southeast to World Equestrian Center. This year’s event offers more than $31,500 in additional funds and prizes, making it an even more exciting and competitive weekend.
- Location: 1750 NW 80th Ave, Ocala
- When: May 23–25, 2026
- Admission: Free Spectator Admission
Insider's Tip: Barrel Bonanza isn't the only activity happening at the World Equestrian Center during Memorial Day weekend! Be sure to check out live music from Mark Raisch, KennaDee, Melissa Lee, and Sandra & Alex LeKid on the campus that weekend as well.
Sweet Corn Festival
Come celebrate sweet corn season with a full day of farm fun at Cannon Farms. In addition to tons of sweet corn to enjoy, the festival will have hayrides, a petting zoo, animal feeding, live music, face painting, inflatables, vendors, food trucks, flower picking, photo opportunities, and more. It's a wonderful way to kick off the summer season and make memories with children.
- Location: 11801 SW 180th Ave., Dunnellon
- When: May 23, 2026
- Admission: General Admission $5 | Seniors 65+ and Children Under 2 FREE
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. It's a perfect option for a low-key, family-friendly afternoon with animals.
- Location: 1150 W. Hwy 40, Ocala
- When: Monday, May 25, 2026
- Admission: Adults $14 | Children 2-12 $10 | Seniors $12 | Veterans & Military $11
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 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.
Explore More
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Ocala-Marion County Veterans Memorial Park2601 NE 26th Terrace
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Veterans Exhibit & Education Center2528 E. Silver Springs Blvd
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Reilly Arts Center500 NE 9th Street
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Cannon Farms11801 SW 180th Ave
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Petting Zoo of Ocala11150 W. Hwy 40
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