FINE ARTS FOR OCALA (FAFO) formed in 1967 with the simple mission to promote the appreciation of the fine arts and to enhance art education in our community. With that vision in mind, a determined group of art lovers formed a nonprofit and began the Ocala Arts Festival. Their goal was to allow attendees to enjoy and purchase artwork in a variety of mediums and prices from professional artists across the country and around the world.

The result of their work is a show that has grown in popularity and reputation and now is considered one of Central Florida’s premier fine arts show. As FAFO’s founding members envisioned it, the show provides gallery quality art with an opportunity to interact with the artists and most importantly, it introduces children to the wonder and magic of original art.

FAFO also hosts the Symphony Under the Stars every Mother’s Day in order to bring the performing arts to our community. This event is well loved and considered to be Ocala’s best cultural event for families. Proceeds from this event support FAFO’s art education outreach programs.

FAFO continues to support arts education through scholarships and various community programs.