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Patriotic Skies
July 4 @ 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Celebrate Independence Day with an unforgettable evening at Patriotic Skies! Enjoy a spectacular fireworks display that lights up the night sky, live music to keep you dancing, and a fun-filled Kids Zone featuring games and activities for the whole family. Satisfy your cravings with a variety of delicious food from local food trucks, offering everything from savory snacks to sweet treats. Whether you’re relaxing with loved ones or enjoying the entertainment, this free event is the perfect way to celebrate America’s birthday in style. Don’t miss out – bring your chairs, blankets, and your patriotic spirit!
Become A Sponsor:
This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors. Interested in becoming a sponsor? Please contact Brooke Perry at [email protected] for additional information.
Entertainment
Bryce Mauldin
Bryce Mauldin, originally from Webster, FL, is bringing serious Florida fire to the Nashville country scene. As a fully independent artist, he’s racked up over 20 million streams on his original music and built a massive following across social media with a sound that appeals to fans of both classic and modern country.
From high-energy hits like “City Limits”—channeling the rock-influenced edge of Jason Aldean—to the heartfelt, steel-guitar-driven “Seeing Somebody Else,” Bryce’s music spans generations and styles while staying true to his roots. His songwriting is personal yet universally relatable, giving a voice to fans through real-life storytelling.
With his distinctive style and growing momentum, Bryce Mauldin is quickly carving out his place as one of country music’s rising stars.
Emma Forgette
In the world of country music, few voices shine as brightly and authentically as Emma Forgette’s. Born in New Jersey but rooted in Ocala, Florida, Emma is quickly making her mark on the contemporary country scene.
She began her musical journey just three years ago at age 17, exploring opera, rock, pop, and theater, but always returning to her first love—country music. Her powerful voice and wide range draw comparisons to some of the genre’s greatest female artists, and her dream of performing at the Grand Ole Opry feels well within reach.
Emma’s musical foundation runs deep. She played first-chair flute through school and is now learning guitar, adding to her already impressive artistry. Offstage, she’s a true country girl—living on a family farm, collecting cowboy boots, and embracing the simple joys of rural life.
With talent, heart, and drive, Emma Forgette is a rising star to watch—and this is only the beginning.
Schedule
{More comming soon}
Food Trucks
Savor the flavors of summer with a variety of delicious food trucks at our Fourth of July celebration—serving up everything from classic cookout favorites to sweet treats the whole family will love!
- Best Food Ever
- Brick & Ember Pizza
- Country Boyz BBQ
- Junkie Fries
- Kona Ice
- Pepere’ Joe’s
- Puertorican Cravings
- Royal Hibachi
- Silver Springs Lions Club (funnel cakes!)
- The Dancing Empanada
- The Krafty Kettle
- Urban Dawgs
Free Parking & Shuttles
Free shuttle service will be available from 5 to 11 p.m. from the following locations:
- Marion Technical Institute (1614 SE Fort King St.)
– Shuttle drops off at the Recreation and Parks Administration building (828 NE Eighth Ave.)
– Runs approximately every 30 minutes (ADA accessible) - E.D. Croskey Recreation Center (1510 NW Fourth St.)
– Shuttle drops off at Ocala Skate Park (517 NE Ninth St.)
– Runs approximately every 20 minutes (ADA accessible) - Ocala City Hall (110 SE Watula Ave.)
– Shuttle drops off at the intersection of NE Sanchez Ave. and NE Fourth St.
– Runs approximately every 15 minutes - Marion County Parking Facility (346 NW Second St.)
– Shuttle drops off at the intersection of NE Sanchez Ave. and NE Fourth St.
– Runs approximately every 15 minutes
FAQs
Q: What time will the fireworks start?
A: The show will start promptly at 9:30 p.m.
Q: How long is the show?
A: The show will last approximately 15 minutes.
Q: Where can I park?
A: There will be parking available at the Ocala Skate Park, however, it may be limited due to the number of spaces available. Guests are encouraged to utilize parking at Marion Technical Institute (MTI), the downtown Ocala Parking Garage, Marion County Courthouse or the E.D. Croskey Recreation Center. Complimentary shuttles will be available to take guests to the event zone.
Q: Is ADA parking available?
A: ADA parking will be available in the Reilly Arts Center parking lot, and complimentary shuttles from Marion Technical Institute (MTI) and the E.D. Croskey Recreation Center are ADA accessible.
Q: Which roads will be closed?
A: Sanchez will be closed from NE 4th Street to 9th Street and Watula will be closed from NE 5th Street to NE 9th Street.
Q: Are coolers allowed?
A: Yes, and food trucks will be on-site with food and additional soft drinks available for purchase.
Q: Are chairs provided?
A: No. Please plan to bring your own chair or blanket. Depending on location, you may also be able to view the show from your car.
Q: Can I bring food into the event zone?
A: Yes, however we encourage you to check out our food vendors!
Q: Is there reserved seating available?
A: Only sponsors and special guests will have access to reserved seating.
Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: Yes, however they must be leashed and picked up after.
Q: Is there an age limit to get into the festival?
A: This is an all ages, family friendly event.
Q: What if it rains?
A: Depending on the severity of weather, the event might be delayed, rescheduled or cancelled. All updates will be posted to the official Ocala Recreation & Parks Facebook or Instagram page: @OcalaRecPark
Q: Is there a first aid station/medic on site?
A: Yes, Ocala Fire Rescue will be available
Q: Can I come onsite to sell stuff?
A: Only approved vendors may sell items onsite.
Q: What activities will you have for kids?
A: We will have a kid’s zone complete with multiple bounce houses, a rock wall, and a mechanical alligator!
Q: What is prohibited in the event zone?
A: Prohibited tems are listed below
- No glass
- No alcohol
- No musical instruments
- No weapons of any kind
- No tents, umbrellas or shade structures of any kind
- No glitter of confetti
- No grills
- No balloons, balls or inflatables
- No laser pointers
- No sporting equipment
- Any item deemed unsafe by OPD is not allowed
- Drones
Just a reminder: Alcohol is prohibited on public property, including parks, streets and sidewalks. It is also illegal to possess fireworks that explode or leave the ground.
Q: What is the restroom situation?
A: Restrooms are available on-site near the baseball field and the Tuscawilla Group Pavilion and there will be additional portolets spaced around the event zone. Restrooms are ADA accessible.
Q: What can I bring into the event?
A:
– Baby Strollers with accompanied child
– Sunglasses, hats, fanny packs
– Sunscreen
– Food and drink
– Small camera with no detachable zoom lens or flash
– Lawn chairs: low-profile beach chairs, bag chairs or inflatable couches (They must be set up in the designated chair zone. Chairs may not be set up close to the stage, and holding spots is prohibited)
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