F.A.F.O

Fine Arts For Ocala (FAFO) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1966 with a mission to promote the appreciation of fine arts and enhance art education within the Ocala community. Entirely volunteer-driven, FAFO brings together artists, educators, and art enthusiasts to foster a vibrant cultural scene in Marion County.

FAFO is best known for organizing two of Ocala’s most anticipated annual events: the Ocala Arts Festival and Symphony Under the Stars. The Ocala Arts Festival, held each October, attracts over 40,000 visitors and features more than 150 artists from across the country, showcasing a diverse array of artworks. Symphony Under the Stars, a cherished Mother’s Day tradition since 1988, offers an evening of live symphonic music under the open sky, complete with a fireworks finale.

Beyond these events, FAFO supports the arts through scholarships, community initiatives, and programs like the Emerging Artists program, which provides resources and exposure to up-and-coming local talent. Through these efforts, FAFO continues to enrich Ocala’s cultural landscape and nurture the next generation of artists.