Ocala Home Guide Realty is excited that the Budweiser Clydesdales will participate in our Horse Capital Parade this coming Saturday. Brought to you by the Ocala/Marion County Chamber & Economic Partnership, the 4th annual Horse Capital Parade is a show you won’t want to miss.
The Horse Capital Parade is a vibrant celebration held annually in the heart of Ocala, Florida, known as the “Horse Capital of the World.” This lively event showcases the region’s rich equestrian heritage and its deep-rooted connection to the horse industry. Featuring beautifully adorned floats, marching bands, and a stunning display of horses from various breeds, the parade attracts locals and visitors alike. Participants often include equestrians, riding clubs, and local businesses united by their love for horses.
As families line the streets to watch this spectacular procession, they experience firsthand the spirit of camaraderie that defines Ocala’s community. The parade not only highlights equestrian culture but also promotes tourism and supports local charities through various fundraising initiatives associated with it. Overall, the Horse Capital Parade serves as a joyous reminder of Ocala’s legacy in horse breeding and training while fostering pride among residents in their unique heritage.
Ocala Live Stud is hosting this year’s parade in conjunction with The Live Oak International. This annual equestrian event features many breads of horses from all over the world. The parade, featured in down town Ocala on March 7th, will begin at 4:30 PM.
The 29th Annual Live Oak International
The Live Oak International is the largest combined driving and show jumping tournament in the United States. It has earned a important place among the most respected equestrian events in the country. As a result, it draws competitors from throughout the world. But it was not always the grand affair it is today. At its inception, it was a local event featuring a combined driving competition only. However, it has now evolved into a world class international competition featuring participants from Europe and the United States.
The prestige of the event was impacted by an international show jumping competition added in 2012. Today The Live Oaks International features a grand prix event. It serves as a qualifier for the Longines FEI World Cup™ Jumping North American League. As a result, it has enhanced the Live Oak’s reputation in the world equestrian community.
Live Oak Stud Offers An Ideal Setting For This Event
The venue, Live Oak Stud, is a 5,000 acre property home to a large cattle ranch. Also sharing this acreage is Live Oak Plantation, a successful Thoroughbred breeding, training and racing operation. Racing under white silks with red polka dots and black sleeves, homebreds from the program have enjoyed much success. They have registered Breeders’ Cup World Championships’ wins. They have also earned Eclipse Awards, FTOBA awards, and multiple Grade One wins on the dirt and the turf. In 2018, Live Oak Stud celebrated 50 years of excellence.
This amazing facility is at the forefront of equestrian activities in Marion County. Therefore, it is an outstanding host for this world class annual event.
The Horse Capital Parade
The world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales will be special participants at this year’s parade. The parade will also feature more than sixty horse breeds from farms throughout Marion County.
The Ocala Downtown Square will offer a Vendor Village with various local participants, a beer garden and stagecoach rides. Of course, the highlight will be a “Meet a Horse, Make a Friend” zone where kids can experience and pet live horses. This free, family-friendly event will open at 1 p.m.
The Parade will begin where the Downtown Market and First Presbyterian Church meet. It will then follow the new Osceola Trek, proceed down Fort King Street. Finally, it will circle the Downtown Square and conclude back at the Market.
Plan to enjoy this Ocala highlight next Saturday. It will be fun for the whole family. –
Andy K, Ocala Home Guide Realty.
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