Fort King National Historic Landmark to Host Inaugural Reenactment, 'Rains' Battle: Fort King's Most Desperate Hour'

OCALA, Fla. (March 24, 2026) - The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department will host its inaugural historical reenactment, "Rains' Battle: Fort King's Most Desperate Hour," on Saturday, March 28 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Fort King St. The event is free and open to the public.

"Rains' Battle" brings to life the conflict between Captain Gabriel J. Rains and his troops and a small, highly mobile band of Seminole warriors, offering attendees an immersive look at a pivotal moment in local history.

Guests are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy a variety of activities leading up to the reenactment. The Fort King Visitor Center and gift shop will offer extended hours, while the Grill n' Chill food truck will be on site serving a selection of food and specialty drinks. Live music by Seminole flute player Vandall Samuels will provide an authentic atmosphere throughout the evening. In addition, local blacksmiths will host a live expo and offer hand-forged items for purchase.

Event Schedule:

• 4 p.m. - Gates open
• 4 to 6 p.m. - Blacksmith expo
• 6 to 7 p.m. - Historical presentations
• 7 p.m. - Battle reenactment begins

Guests should be advised that cannon and musket fire will occur periodically throughout the event.

Parking will be available at the main Fort King lot, as well as the Klein Lot located at 50 NE 41^st Ave. An ADA-accessible tram will be available to assist guests with mobility needs.

For more information, visit https://www.fortkingocala.com.

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About Fort King National Historic Landmark
Fort King is a 40-acre National Historic Landmark home to a life-size reconstruction of the fort and block houses that served as the location that ignited the Second Seminole War in the 1830s. Today, the reconstruction of Fort King serves as an ongoing exploration of Ocala's past. Also on site is the Fort King Visitor's Center, offering displays and artifacts that help bring history to life; the David Laffey Heritage Garden, a teaching garden that is open to the public year-round; a mile-long hiking trail with interpretive signage detailing the history of the land; and the Daughters of the American Revolution memorial site. Fort King is owned jointly by the City of Ocala and Marion County with funding assistance and support from the Fort King Heritage Association. For more information about Fort King, visit www.fortkingocala.com.