All About Marion County Master Gardeners Spring Festival
The Marion County Master Gardeners Spring Festival is one of the most anticipated events for gardeners in central Florida, and 2026 marks a special milestone: the 30th anniversary of this beloved tradition! Hosted by the UF/IFAS Extension Marion County Master Gardeners (a volunteer program dedicated to promoting science-based horticulture and sustainable gardening practices), the festival has grown into the region's largest all in one plant and garden expo since it began in 1996.
Held annually on the second weekend of March, the 2026 event takes place March 14–15 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion in Ocala, Florida (2232 NE Jacksonville Rd, Ocala, FL 34470). This sprawling venue provides plenty of space for hundreds of vendors, educational displays, and enthusiastic crowds eager to kick off the spring planting season.
What to Expect at the Festival
This two-day celebration is more than just a plant sale, it's a full gardening immersion! Attendees can browse an impressive array of vendors offering everything from tropical treasures to native Florida plants.
Key highlights include:
Extensive Plant Sales: Nurseries and growers bring a huge variety, including bromeliads (e.g., Randy's Bromeliads & More, McCrory's Bromeliad Nursery), orchids (Goodwin Orchids, Lady Vanda Orchids), succulents and cacti (Under the Son Cactus & Succulent Grower), natives and pollinator friendly plants (Bee Native Nursery, Scrubland Farms), plumerias, hibiscus, foliage plants, herbs, and more. Whether you're looking for hardy Florida friendly landscaping options or exotic additions to your collection, there's something for every garden style.
Educational Exhibits and Seminars: True to the Master Gardeners' mission, the event features hands on demonstrations, informational booths, and expert advice from UF/IFAS specialists. Topics often cover Florida friendly landscaping, pollinator conservation, blueberry growing, entomology (including bug clubs), and sustainable practices. It's a fantastic opportunity to get your gardening questions answered directly by certified volunteers and experts.
Special Attractions: Look for family friendly zones like the KidZone (with activities from groups like Bills Bees and Florida Garden Railroad Society), wildlife and pollinator focused displays, and community resources from organizations like the City of Ocala Water Resources and UF/IFAS 4-H.
Food Court and Vendors: Grab a bite from food trucks and vendors offering BBQ, Greek foods, ice cream, lemonade, and more…perfect for refueling while you shop.
The festival emphasizes education alongside shopping, helping attendees create beautiful, eco friendly landscapes suited to Florida's unique climate. With dozens of vendors (from foliage specialists to bonsai experts and even solar and home décor options), it's easy to spend hours exploring.
Admission is typically affordable (often around $3 for adults, with kids free-check the official site for 2026 confirmation), and the event runs Saturday 8 a.m.–4 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Bring cash for some vendors, wear comfortable shoes, and don't forget your plant list…or a wagon for all those new additions!
If you're in the Ocala/Marion County area (or willing to travel), this 30th anniversary edition promises to be extra special. It's a wonderful way to connect with fellow gardeners, support local growers, and get inspired for the season ahead. For the latest details, vendor lists, maps, and updates, visit the UF/IFAS Marion County Master Gardeners website or their Facebook page.
Happy gardening, Ocala! 🌿
