Happy Friday, Crystal River! Early voting kicks off today ahead of the August 18 primary, and turnout is already strong: more than 500,000 Floridians have cast ballots statewide. Also making headlines this week: potential gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds toured Citrus County, and the county is looking at holding stormwater and utility fees flat for the year ahead.

Over at Crystal River High, today's freshman orientation welcomes the Class of 2030, and families should watch their mailboxes for the 2026-2027 Parent Guide & Calendar; school starts Monday, August 10. CCSO also released Part 3 of its Boating Safety Series, worth a look with more than a month of scalloping season still ahead.

And don't let the workweek end without plans: First Friday takes over Town Square tonight from 5 to 9 PM with live music, food trucks, and shopping, while Big Worley's BBQ rolls into Homosassa Distillery Co. Keep scrolling for the full events lineup, tonight's live music picks, and more.

Early Voting Begins Today in Citrus County

Early voting begins today, giving residents their first chance to cast a ballot ahead of the August 18 primary. Statewide, more than 500,000 Floridians have already voted early — a sign of strong turnout as Election Day approaches.

Citrus County Eyes Keeping Stormwater and Utility Fees Flat

Citrus County is looking at holding stormwater and utility fees flat, meaning no increases for these essential services on the horizon — welcome news for household budgets across the community. Discussions are still underway before it's a done deal.

Potential Gubernatorial Candidate Byron Donalds Visits Citrus County

Potential Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds made a visit to Citrus County this week, drawing statewide attention to the area as the next election cycle heats up.

Federal Appeals Court Upholds Florida's Ban on Children at Drag Shows

A federal appeals court has upheld Florida's law barring minors from attending drag shows, keeping the ban firmly in place statewide. The ruling could affect local entertainment venues and community events going forward.

A Thriving Downtown Doesn't Happen by Accident

A vibrant downtown is the direct result of everyday choices — shopping local, supporting small businesses, and showing up for the community. Every stop at a locally owned shop helps keep Citrus County's business community strong.

CCSO Releases Part 3 of Its Boating Safety Series

With 49 days still left in scalloping season, the Citrus County Sheriff's Office has released Part 3 of its Boating Safety Series, focused on the required equipment every boater needs onboard. Worth a check before your next trip on the water.

Freshman Orientation Welcomes CRHS Class of 2030 Today

Crystal River High School's newest freshmen report for orientation today, spending the morning getting to know campus starting at 8:00 AM, with guardians joining at 11:00 AM.

2026–2027 Parent Guide & Calendar Arriving in Mailboxes

The 2026–2027 Parent Guide & Calendar is arriving in mailboxes across Citrus County, packed with key dates and district resources for the school year. The first day of school is Monday, August 10 — if you haven't received your copy, reach out to [email protected].

Crystal River High Offers Voluntary Kid Guard Student Accident Insurance

Crystal River High School families can now opt into voluntary Kid Guard Student Accident Insurance, covering unexpected injuries and medical expenses during the school year — a way to have some peace of mind before the year gets underway.

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First Friday
Friday | August 7, 2026 | 5 PM – 9 PM
City of Crystal River Government
123 NW US Hwy 19, Crystal River, FL 34428
Join us at Town Square every first Friday of the month for live music, shopping vendors, lawn games, food trucks, and visiting our downtown bars and restaurants.
View Event Details -->

SATURDAY FARM SWAP
Saturday | August 8, 2026 | 6:30 AM – 3 PM
Howard's Flea Market
6373 S. Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa, FL 34446
🐐🌾 Howard’s Flea Market Farm Swap 🐓🐷🥚 Calling all farmers, homesteaders, backyard chicken lovers, gardeners, and animal enthusiasts! Join us EVERY Saturday from 6:30 AM – 3:00 PM at Howard’s Fl…
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Lecanto Toddler Soccer
Saturday | August 8, 2026 | 9 AM
Lecanto Community Park
3798 W. Educational Path, Lecanto, FL
Come Join us in the Fall for toddler soccer!! Our programs will run for 8 weeks beginning Saturday August8 and ending Saturday September 26, 2026 Click on the link below to reserve a spot! The cost a…
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Back-to-School Bunco Bash
Saturday | August 8, 2026 | 11 AM – 3:00 PM
American Legion Post #155
6585 E. Gulf to Lake Hwy, Crystal River, FL 34429
Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. We will have cash prizes, 50-50 and raffle baskets. There will be appetizers and nonalcoholic beverages. Doors will open at 11 AM. Dice will roll at noon…
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Big Worley's BBQ & Burger (BBQ | Burgers)
Friday | August 7, 2026 | 4 PM – 9 PM
Homosassa Distillery Co
8759 W. Tradeways Ct, Homosassa, FL 34448
View Food Truck Info -->

Wallace Blvd. @ Eagles Post #4272
Wallace Blvd.
Friday | August 7, 2026 | 6 PM – 10 PM
Eagles Post #4272
5340 W. Grover Cleveland Blvd., Homosassa, FL
Rocking the Eagles
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Hippy Gypsy @ Papa Willie's Bar & Grill
Hippy Gypsy
Friday | August 7, 2026 | 7 PM – 10 PM
Papa Willie's Bar & Grill (Crystal River, FL)
8115 W. Ferwerda Ct., Crystal River, FL 34428
Write it down. Just to make it a little easier. Every first Friday for the rest of our lives - 7pm to 10pm. Papa Willies- Home of Hippy Gypsy. Starting in 2026
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Groove 41 at The Shed (Old Homosassa)
Groove 41
Saturday | August 8, 2026 | 4 PM – 8:00 PM
The Shed (Old Homosassa)
5300 S Cherokee Way, Homosassa, FL
The ultimate in waterfront dining, right on the Homosassa River.
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Guitar Mike & Friends at Bree's Riverside Restaurant
Guitar Mike & Friends
Saturday | August 8, 2026 | 4 PM – 8 PM
Bree's Riverside Restaurant
29250 Lake Lindsey Rd., Nobleton, FL 34661
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Echo/Sixx Band at St. Johns Tavern
Echo/Sixx Band
Saturday | August 8, 2026 | 8 PM – 12:00 AM
St. Johns Tavern
572 N. Citrus Ave, Crystal River, FL 34428
The Vault will be rocking
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Yearbook Radio Band at Bree's Riverside Restaurant
Yearbook Radio
Sunday | August 9, 2026 | 3 PM – 7 PM
Bree's Riverside Restaurant
29250 Lake Lindsey Rd., Nobleton, FL 34661
View Event Details -->

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Mark and the Inside Crystal River Team