10:00 - 11:00 a.m. | Def-i

11:00 - 11:20 a.m. | Friends of the Public Library

11:20 a.m. - 12:20 p.m. | Def-i

12:20 – 12:35 p.m. | Community Stages

1:00 - 2:00 p.m. | Kuf Knotz & Christine Elise

2:00 - 2:20 p.m. | Ocala Civic Theatre

2:20 - 3:20 p.m. | Kuf Knotz & Christine Elise

3:30 - 5:00 p.m. | Open mic, poetry recital

In celebration of the festival, the first edition of My Place, My Story: Art Park Literary and Poetry Book will be available for free at the event. The book features selected poems from North Central Florida poets and Marion County middle and high school students, who were invited to reflect on the places, memories, and experiences that shape their sense of belonging—whether in physical spaces, feelings, people, a favorite corner of a home, a special spot in nature, or even a secret garden. Some of these poems will be recited live during the festival.

Physical copies of My Place, My Story will also be available at the City of Ocala Cultural Arts Office (201 SW 3rd St, 2nd Floor) and at Marion County Public Library branches. The book is also accessible online for free through the Marion County Public Library’s Biblioboard platform (https://marionfl.biblioboard.com).

Poets retain full ownership of their work. No part of the book may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form without prior written permission from the author(s). By participating in the festival, authors have granted the City of Ocala permission to share their poems for festival purposes, including promotion of the event and inclusion in the poetry book. The opinions and views expressed in the book are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views, policies, or positions of the City of Ocala and Marion County.

Festival attendees can enjoy a variety of delicious food and beverages from our local and regional vendors, including:

• MR & Co., LLC d/b/a Barefoot Baker Sweets & Treats
• Tammy’s Cup of Sunshine
• Lucky's Kitchen
• The Best Brazilian Barbecue Food Truck
• Spice Corner Hernando LLC
• SourMouth Fresh Squeezed Lemonade
• Brick City Hot Dogs

Is there an admission fee?

No, the Art Park Literary and Poetry Festival is completely free to attend! Visitors can enjoy poetry readings, author showcases, live music, and interactive art activities at no cost.

What happens if it rains?

In the event of inclement weather, the Art Park Literary & Poetry Festival will be rescheduled to Saturday, April 18, 2026.

Updates will be posted on the City of Ocala Cultural Arts Instagram page @OcalaCulturalArts. Please check for updates leading up to the event.

 Where can I park?

Visitors can park on-site for free at Tuscawilla Park, along NE Sanchez Avenue. Additional public parking is available nearby throughout downtown Ocala.

Are there public restrooms nearby?

Yes, public restrooms are available on-site at Tuscawilla Art Park.

Is the event accessible for individuals with disabilities?

Yes, the festival is held in an accessible park area with wheelchair-friendly paths. Accessible parking is also available in designated spaces nearby.

Are pets allowed?

Yes! Friendly, leashed pets are welcome to enjoy the event alongside their owners. Please be mindful of large crowds, noise levels, and vendors displays, and always clean up after your pet.