Applications are now officially open for artists, arts organizations, downtown businesses, and business sponsors looking to participate in the upcoming First Friday Art Walk season beginning later this year.
The monthly event series is scheduled to return to Ocala on Friday, October 2, running from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Following the autumn kickoff, the Art Walk will continue on the first Friday of every month through May 2027.
The single exception to the traditional schedule lands in January, when the event will shift to the second Friday, January 8, due to the New Year’s holiday.
The official calendar of event dates for the 2026-2027 season includes October 2, November 6, and December 4 of this year, followed by January 8, February 5, March 5, April 2, and May 7 of next year.
Each installment of the First Friday Art Walk regularly showcases more than 40 local and regional visual artists and arts organizations scattered throughout Ocala’s historic downtown district.
In addition to browsing the visual art displays, visitors can enjoy live art demonstrations, street performers, local musicians, and special performances by area school and dance groups. The events also incorporate family-friendly activities alongside extended shopping and dining hours at participating downtown businesses.
Creatives, organizations, and local shops interested in full-season participation must submit their applications by 11:59 p.m. on Monday, September 7. Any applications received after this deadline will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the season as vendor space becomes available. Registration forms are currently available online through the city’s official Art Walk portal.
For more details regarding the application process or event guidelines, community members can reach out to the City of Ocala Cultural Arts Division by phone at 352-629-8447 or via email at [email protected].