Applaud the Arts

MCA annually presents Applaud the Arts, Ocala’s largest gathering of artists, arts organizations, MCA members, and the business community. This signature event kicks off the cultural season in Ocala with the announcement of arts awards, cultural grants recipients and is always set in one of our favorite cultural venues. Following the brief program, guests enjoy tapas, libations, and entertainment.

Applaud the Arts: 25th Anniversary Gala

An Equine-Inspired Silver Anniversary Gala Celebrating 25 Years of Marion Cultural Alliance

Thursday, October 29th, 2026 | 6 – 9 PM

Protea Farms (12088 S Hwy 475, Ocala, FL.)

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Join us for THE MANE EVENT; an unforgettable evening at Applaud the Arts: 25th Anniversary Gala, a silver-tie celebration marking 25 years of artistic excellence and cultural impact in Marion County. Hosted by the Marion Cultural Alliance, this signature event has long been a beloved community tradition — and this year, we elevate the experience in honor of our Silver Anniversary.

Guests will enjoy an elegant, equestrian-inspired evening featuring fine dining, curated entertainment, immersive décor, and meaningful connection with the region’s most passionate supporters of the arts. As our milestone celebration, this year’s gala expands its atmosphere and programming to reflect the legacy we honor and the future we are building together.

We are proud to recognize our Presenting Sponsor – JOAN PLETCHER REAL ESTATE NETWORK, whose leadership and commitment make this extraordinary evening possible and whose support helps sustain arts and culture throughout our community.

A highlight of the evening is the presentation of our Cultural Grant Awards, where local arts nonprofit organizations receive vital funding that fuels performances, exhibitions, educational programs, and community outreach for the year ahead. Guests will witness firsthand the direct impact of their support as grant recipients are celebrated during the evening.

The evening will also feature our annual Art Awards, honoring outstanding advocates, educators, and community leaders whose dedication strengthens and champions the arts in Marion County.

For 25 years, MCA has worked to connect creativity with community. Applaud the Arts is more than a gala — it is a celebration of impact, advocacy, and the power of the arts to inspire, unite, and transform.

We invite you to dress in your finest attire (guests are encouraged to wear silver), raise a glass under the silver glow, and join us for a night where celebration meets purpose.

Thank You to Our 2026 Presenting Sponsor:

Sponsorship opportunities are available! All sponsors are recognized as MCA Business pARTners for one year at the level commemorate with the selected sponsorship level. Contact MCA Executive Director for more information.

visit the sponsor page

Or contact Jaye Baillie, Executive Director by clicking here or by calling (352) 369-1500.

About Applaud the Arts

We Applaud the Arts because…

art creates beauty in our city and connects its people
art is a cornerstone of a healthy and prosperous community
art is an economic driver
art improves education by encouraging creativity, problem solving, and lateral thinking
art improves and inspires economic development, creates jobs and produces tax revenue
art attracts tourism revenue
art is an experience fundamental to our humanity

We hope you will join artists, CEO’s, Entrepreneurs, elected officials, arts patrons, and nonprofit leaders as we gather to applaud the visionary individuals and organizations who play such a vital role in the quality of life in Ocala/Marion County.

Email Jaye Baillie, Executive Director by clicking here for more information or by calling (352) 369-1500.

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APPLAUD THE ARTS 2025 – OLYMPUS ODYSSEY

Step into a world of myth and majesty as Marion Cultural Alliance proudly presents its 18th Annual Applaud the Arts, themed Olympus Odyssey—an evening of divine inspiration and artistic celebration. This year’s unforgettable experience is sponsored by the LILAC Foundation.

Guests will embark on a celestial journey through creativity and community, surrounded by stunning ambiance designed by Party Time Rentals, unique art performances by Artify Ocala, visionary concept design by event chair Kiah Manning, and so much more!

As the night unfolds, we’ll honor excellence in the arts by announcing MCA’s 2025–2026 Grant Recipients and celebrating the outstanding winners of the MCA Art Awards in Service, Vision, and Arts Education POWERED by Duke Energy.

Themed attire is strongly encouraged—channel your inner god or goddess, muse or myth! Prizes will be awarded for the most divine looks of the night.

Don’t miss this signature MCA event—where culture, creativity, and community converge in one unforgettable evening. Your presence supports the vibrant arts scene that makes Marion County thrive.

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