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.

Applaud the Arts: 25th Anniversary Gala

An 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 an unforgettable evening at Applaud the Arts: 25th Anniversary Gala, a formal 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.

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.

MCA’s 25th Anniversary Gala promises to be our best yet, featuring champagne upon arrival, an open bar, entertainment by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra Quartet, a silent auction, an opportunity to meet Tribute25, MCA’s Raffle Horse, and a seated dinner curated by Chef Patti and La Casella Catering. Guests will enjoy the evening in the ambiance of a beautifully renovated 1850 wheat barn at Protea Weddings & Events, magically transformed by Dawn Lovell and Party Time Rentals.

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. This year’s 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 look forward to celebrating this milestone with you and raising a glass to another year of creativity, connection, and community!

Thank You to Our 2026 Presenting Sponsor:

Diamond Partner:

Platinum Partners:

Gold Partner:

Silver Partner:

Jessica McCune & Beth McCall

Friends of Applaud – 250

Media pARTners:

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.

Marion Cultural Alliance, Inc. (MCA) is a 501(c) charitable organization registered with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. A copy of the official registration (#CH551) and the financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Affairs by calling toll-free 1-800-435-7352 within the state or visit the website https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Charities. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. No goods or services were received and it is tax-deductible by law. Marion Cultural Alliance, Inc. does not engage paid solicitors. EIN number: 31.1760490

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.