🌾 From Farms to Festivals: The Agritourism Events That Define Marion County

Ocala’s farmland isn’t just for growing — it’s for gathering, celebrating, and creating unforgettable family moments.

🌱 The Story of Marion County’s Farms & Festivals

Long before Ocala became known for its world-class equestrian culture, it was known for something else: its land.
Rich sand-loam soil. Rolling pastures. Rows of blueberry bushes. Peach orchards. Cattle fields. Sunflowers stretching toward endless Florida skies.

Agriculture is the root of Marion County’s identity — and today, it’s also the root of some of the best seasonal events and family-friendly outings near Ocala.

Agritourism has become one of the region’s most charming ways to spend a weekend. Whether you’re picking blueberries with your kids, wandering through sunflower fields, feeding rescued animals, or sipping peach slushies on a shaded porch, these experiences pull you into the rhythm of real Florida life.

This guide highlights four of the most beloved agritourism destinations near Ocala, each offering seasonal events, hands-on experiences, and that unmistakable small-town warmth.

🍓 1. Brown & Brown Farms – Oxford, Florida

Website: https://brownandbrownfarms.com
Address: 13940 US Hwy 301, Oxford, FL 34484
Distance from Ocala: ~30 minutes

One of the most iconic agritourism destinations near Ocala, Brown & Brown Farms is famous for its seasonal festivals — especially its sunflower fields, pumpkin patch, and annual strawberry events.

“Brown & Brown isn’t just a farm — it’s a seasonal celebration with something new every time you visit.”

🌻 Seasonal Events & Festivals

Brown & Brown Farms offers multiple themed events throughout the year:

Spring Strawberry Festival

• Fresh strawberry U-pick

• Strawberry shortcake, jams & baked goods

• Craft vendors

• Kid rides & attractions

• Weekend entertainment

Nothing feels more “Florida spring” than walking out with a bucket of sun-sweet berries.

Summer Sunflower Fields

Acres of flowers create Instagram-worthy backdrops and unforgettable family photos.

Fall Festival & Pumpkin Patch

• Hayrides

• Corn maze

• Fall treats

• Large pumpkin selection

• Live entertainment

Holiday Events

Christmas markets, lights, and specialty bake shop offerings complete the year.

🔎 Local Insight Box

Arrive early for strawberry season — the best berries go fast on weekends.
Locals know: the first Saturday of peak season is always PACKED, so aiming for Friday afternoon or early Sunday morning makes for a more relaxed day.

🫐 2. Abshier Blueberry Farm – Belleview, FL

Website: https://www.facebook.com/abshierblueberryfarm
Address: 3960 SE 115th St, Belleview, FL 34420
Distance from Ocala: ~15 minutes

Nestled quietly in Belleview, Abshier Blueberry Farm is a true Marion County treasure — simple, wholesome, family-oriented, and always welcoming.

“There’s something peaceful about walking the rows, picking berries while you listen to the wind move through the trees.”

🧺 What Makes Abshier Special

• Affordable U-pick blueberries

• No entry fee

• Picnic-friendly atmosphere

• Shade trees with seating

• Friendly owners who explain which bushes are at peak ripeness

U-Pick Season

Typically runs April through June, depending on weather. The berries here are famously large, sweet, and perfect for:

• Baking

• Smoothies

• Freezing

• Snacking by the handful on the drive home

🔎 Local Insight Box

Bring a small cooler. Blueberries stay fresher longer in cool temps, especially for longer drives back into Ocala.

🍑 3. Wet Hammock Farm – Citra, FL

Website: https://www.wethammockfarm.com
Address: 4500 E Highway 318, Citra, FL 32113
Distance from Ocala: ~25 minutes

Wet Hammock Farm is one of Marion County’s best agritourism secrets. Located in the quiet farmland of Citra, this family farm offers blueberry U-pick, peach U-pick, and seasonal fruit events rooted in old-Florida charm.

“Wet Hammock feels like stepping into the kind of Florida your grandparents still talk about.”

🍑 Season Highlights

Blueberry Season

Widely praised for:

• Very reasonable prices

• Delicious berries

• Clean rows

• Great family atmosphere

Peach U-Pick

A rare treat in Florida — juicy, sun-warm peaches harvested right from the tree.

Farm Store

Often stocked with:

• Homemade jams

• Local honey

• Fresh peach slushies (a must-try)

• Seasonal produce

🔎 Local Insight Box

The peach slushies alone are worth the drive. They sell out fast — get one before picking!

🐷 4. Rooterville Animal Sanctuary – Melrose, FL

Website: https://www.rooterville.org
Address: 1208 N County Road 315, Melrose, FL 32666
Distance from Ocala: ~50 minutes

Rooterville isn’t a farm in the traditional sense — it’s a 65-acre animal sanctuary that offers a unique, heartwarming form of agritourism near Ocala. Home to over 100 rescued animals, this destination blends compassion, nature, and unforgettable experiences.

“Rooterville is where families learn kindness — one rescued pig, goat, and cow at a time.”

🐐 What You’ll Experience

• Meet rescued pigs, cows, goats, and donkeys

• Walk the nature trails

• Book guided tours

• Enjoy picnic areas

• Shop their vegan farm store

• Attend seasonal events

🎉 Seasonal Events

Rooterville often hosts:

• Easter celebrations

• Fall family weekends

• Holiday markets

• Yoga with animals

• Volunteer days

It’s an uplifting, educational, and unforgettable outing for kids and adults alike.

🔎 Local Insight Box

Wear closed-toe shoes. You’ll be walking through natural Florida terrain, and friendly goats are known to nudge feet!

🌾 WHY AGRITOURISM MATTERS IN MARION COUNTY

Agritourism isn’t just entertainment — it’s heritage.

These farms show visitors:

• Where their food comes from

• How the land shapes local culture

• Why open spaces matter

• What farming families pour into their craft

They also create:

• Seasonal traditions

• Family memories

• Beautiful experiences rooted in real Florida life

And best of all:
each visit supports small, local, family-run farms.