In the fall of 1966, the first art show in Ocala was held in the parking lot of what is now Bank of America. Attendees reported that they had to climb over 2x4’s and nails to view the art, as the building was still under construction. In 1967 FAFO became incorporated and kept bringing the Art Festival to the downtown community. In 1972, Fine Arts for Ocala, locally known as FAFO, was formed and ha
s brought a juried art show to our community each fall since. The Art Festival encircled City Hall and many residents share fond memories of those days. In 2000, due to construction around that venue, the Ocala Arts Festival was moved to McPherson Governmental Complex at 25th Avenue. In 2013 the show returned to its roots in downtown Ocala, including in the parking lot of Bank of America. We have come full circle since 1967. We have 155 outstanding artists, wonderful music at Citizens Circle, beer, wine, artwork from Marion County Students, Food Trucks, talented young people performing at the Gazebo, and some hands-on art activities at the old Chamber lot. Since 1988, Fine Arts for Ocala (FAFO) has been bringing Symphony Under the Stars to the Ocala community. In the early years the event was held at Paddock Park and FAFO hired symphonies from Tampa or Jacksonville. For over 20 years the Ocala Golf Club has been the location on Mother’s Day, and our local Ocala Symphony Orchestra has been contracted to provide the music. Continually voted as one of the favorite community events, it is a fun evening of seeing friends, enjoying a picnic, listening to good music and being dazzled by the ending fireworks display.
