Fort King Haunted Trail Returns Oct. 17

OCALA, Fla. (Aug. 28, 2026) - The City of Ocala Recreation and Parks Department, in partnership with the Marion County Public Library System and Ocali Storytelling Guild, will host Fort King Haunted Trail on Saturday, Oct. 17, from 5 to 10 p.m. at Fort King National Historic Landmark, 3925 E. Fort King St. The event is free and open to the public.

After a five-year hiatus, Fort King Haunted Trail returns for an evening of family fun, storytelling and fright.

Festivities begin at 5 p.m. with Family Fun in the Fort, featuring food trucks, field games, photo opportunities, living history demonstrations and more. Families can also enjoy trick-or-treating along the trail from 5 to 8 p.m.

At 7 p.m., the Marion County Public Library System and Ocali Storytelling Guild will present Phantoms in the Fort, sharing stories under the stars. As night falls, the scares intensify. Beginning at 8 p.m., guests can experience a spookier side of Fort King as the Haunted Trail comes to life with scare stations throughout the trail.

Family-friendly costumes are encouraged, and candy will be provided for children.

Free off-site parking will be available at the Duke Energy Power Line Field, approximately one-quarter mile east of Fort King. The parking area is located between NE 43^rd Avenue and NE 44^th Avenue on the north side of East Fort King Street. Free shuttles and trams will operate continuously throughout the event to transport guests to and from Fort King. An ADA-accessible tram will also be available for guests with mobility needs.

Those interested in sponsoring or volunteering for Fort King Haunted Trail may email [email protected].

For more information, including event details and parking information, visit www.fortkingocala.com/hauntedtrail.

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