Mid-July in Ocala means two things: real heat and real reasons to get out anyway. This week brings a rock 'n' roll revival downtown, a weekend treasure hunt in Belleview, and a few smart ways to keep your cooling bill in check. Let's get to it.

Not Fade Away: Rock 'n' Roll Re-ignited - Friday, July 17, 7:30pm at the Reilly Arts Center
The songs of Buddy Holly and the early rock era, played live and loud in downtown Ocala. Who it's for: Adults. Get tickets

The Market of Marion - Friday 8 to 3, Saturday and Sunday 8 to 4, in Belleview
More than 1,100 booths of antiques, fresh produce, and local crafts, with free admission and free parking. Who it's for: Families and Adults. Plan your visit

Picturing Paradise: A Free Art Talk - Saturday, July 25, 1pm at the Appleton Museum of Art
Dr. Keri Watson traces Florida in art from Audubon to the Highwaymen, and the whole museum is free all July. Who it's for: Adults and Seniors. See the details

Glass-Bottom Boats in Ocala's Backyard

Silver Springs is one of America's largest springs, the place where the glass-bottom boat was invented, and tours still run daily. It's an easy afternoon out for guests and grandkids, just minutes from town. Plan your trip

Buying a Florida Vacation Rental? Don't Miss This Tax Move

Nancy breaks down cost segregation, a strategy that can let vacation rental buyers write off up to 35 percent of the structure's value in the very first year. Ask your CPA if it fits your situation, then watch the video.

Why Summer Heat Hits Harder After 50

AARP breaks down why older adults face more risk in extreme heat: reduced sweating, cardiovascular strain, and common medications that make it worse.

Key Takeaway: If you take blood pressure or heart medication, ask your doctor how it affects you in the heat, and do not wait until you feel thirsty to drink water. Read more

Five Small Fixes That Can Shrink Your Summer Power Bill

Cooling can eat up as much as 60 percent of a Florida home's energy costs. This quick guide covers closing blinds during peak sun, swapping air filters, sealing drafts, running ceiling fans, and easing the thermostat when the house is empty.

Key Takeaway: Shift heat-producing chores like the oven and dryer to cooler evening hours so your AC has less work to do. See the fixes

Here's how this week's Lake, Marion, and Sumter County activity compares to the same week last year.

Marion County homes sold at a median of $277,450 this week, at about 98 percent of asking. With fewer homes on the market than this time last year, sellers who price right still have the edge.

Source: Stellar MLS. Statistics reflect Lake, Marion, and Sumter Counties' activity from July 5 to July 11, 2026. VLS data not included.

$195,000 | Quiet Corner of Dunnellon
2BR / 1BA Dunnellon home on a peaceful street just minutes from Rainbow Springs, a solid pick for year-round living or a low-key Florida retreat. Listed by the Forrest Team. See Full Details

$308,000 | Space to Spread Out in Southwest Ocala
3BR / 2BA Ocala home in one of the area's fastest-growing corners, with room for family, guests, and everything in between. Listed by Danny Singh. Take a Look

$1,599,000 | A Private Estate in Horse Country
4BR / 4.5BA Dunnellon estate with wide-open space and privacy in every direction, built for the Florida horse country lifestyle. Listed by Michelle Smith. Explore This Home

Overflow guests, a client between closings, or a crew in town for a project: sooner or later everyone needs a comfortable place to put someone up. Baymont's newly renovated Ocala Suites include free breakfast, and the codes in the ad save 10 to 20 percent depending on length of stay. Call (352) 304-6026 or book online.

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