FAFO

About FAFO

FAFO (Fine Arts for Ocala, Inc.) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to celebrating the arts and expanding art-education opportunities within the Ocala community. Founded in the 1960s, FAFO has since become a prominent voice in Marion County for promoting visual arts, live music, and cultural events. The organization works to engage residents of all ages, seeking to deepen appreciation for creative expression and to make the arts accessible to everyone.

FAFO is best known for producing major community-wide events such as the annual arts festival in downtown Ocala each October and the popular outdoor concert gathering in the spring. These events bring together local artists, musicians, performers and art lovers, offering vibrant spaces for connection, inspiration and cultural celebration. In addition to these gatherings, FAFO provides scholarships to emerging artists, supports art-educators and collaborates with schools and community groups to foster creative learning and cultural participation.

What sets FAFO apart is its local roots and inclusive orientation. As a community-based arts organization, it places a strong emphasis on nurturing home-grown talent, elevating the profile of regional artists, and creating platforms where the public can engage with art in meaningful ways. FAFO’s focus on both large festival-style gatherings and ongoing arts education initiatives ensures that its impact extends well beyond a single weekend — helping build an art-aware community and supporting creative careers.

What They Offer

• Major annual arts events such as a fall arts festival and spring outdoor concert

• Artist scholarships and youth-art education programs

• Partnerships with schools, galleries and community groups to deliver art-and-music programming

• Opportunities for local visual and performing artists to exhibit work and engage the public

• Community-wide initiatives to build cultural awareness and serve as a hub for creative activity

Why Choose FAFO

If you’re looking to support or participate in a vibrant local arts organization that brings cultural energy to Ocala and empowers artists, educators and art-lovers alike, FAFO delivers. With a track record of landmark public events and a commitment to art-education and community access, FAFO offers both celebration and meaningful creative engagement.