OFM_Profile_Ocoee_425_Profile 3 / 11 / 25 12 : 56 PM Page 1 B U S I N E S S S P O T L I G H T “ As we celebrate Ocoee’s Centennial Year , we reflect on our rich history and the incredible progress our community has made . This milestone is a testament to the resilience , pride and spirit of our residents . Looking ahead , we are excited to continue building a bright future together while honoring the traditions that make Ocoee such a special place to live , work and thrive , ” agree City Manager Craig Shadrix and Mayor Rusty Johnson . The Turn of a City’s Century Mayor Johnson has lived in Ocoee for nearly 70 years , and has witnessed the immersion of arts , The City of Ocoee is celebrating 100 years of history and culture and technology within the city’s rapid advancement with exciting centennial events throughout developments . Streamlined transportation and heightened connectivity , which was the year . by CARLY MURRAY originally initiated in 1959 by the construction of State Road 50 , continues to result in an annually the spring of 1925 , The City of Ocoee capsule in a ceremony located at increasing population . Whether was a small , agricultural township of 820 the historic Withers - Maguire residing in , visiting or working in settlers ; now , 100 years later , it is a House , honoring the city’s Ocoee , it is a central location to other vibrant community of 51,186 residents . memories and culture . IN Central Florida hotspots . To commemorate the transition from Ocoee’s As an additional tribute to However , it is an all - inclusive origins in citrus cultivation to an urbanized Ocoee’s past and ever - evolving experience within the city alone , downtown , city officials have organized a line - up of present , the city is in the midst with exclusive experiences like the events , signifying Ocoee’s continued innovation . of new additions , partnerships annual Ocoee Music Festival ; water On Valentine’s Day , the City of Ocoee Parks and opportunities . The 1,200 - activities and sightseeing at Starke and Leisure Services hosted a centennial event with square - foot McKey Street Lake ; and the recently opened , live music , games , a s’mores pit , carnival rides , craft Centennial Mural by local 20,000 - square - foot Action Sports Park designed stations , a plush bear station and more , which artist Christian Stanley was unveiled on Feb . 4 , and for skateboarders of all ages and skill levels . A indicated the engaging , varied and family - friendly exemplifies Ocoee’s beautiful tropical atmosphere testament to the city’s commitment to quality of events yet to come . Some upcoming with its historic landmarks . A second centennial innovation , an additional 5,000 square feet are themed events include Easter Eggstravaganza on mural located between McKey Street and Bluford reserved for the Action Sports Park’s future April 19 , a Fourth of July Celebration , and Ocoee Ave . is also in the works . expansion . Community Markets with vendors and live music Unity Park , which was added in 2023 , Events and resources coordinated by the City throughout the month . A full event calendar can be provides the ideal scenery for which Ocoee is of Ocoee Parks and Leisure Services allow a found at the city’s new centennial website , known and contains a natural stormwater runoff simplified way to learn about and to become 100YearsOcoee.com . Two events , however , take treatment area . The park is undergoing immersed in both historical commemoration and the spotlight . recognition of its history with the recent festivity - packed celebration . There are also The Centennial Celebration will commence at installation of a memorial wall to reflect upon the ongoing opportunities for Ocoee residents and Bill Breeze Park on May 9 , with a 100 - year 1920 Election Day Massacre and to honor the 263 businesses to get involved , and to become a part of celebration packed with activities , live entertainment , Black residents who were victimized . This is in modern history . food and vendors . This once - in - a - century event will addition to an existing monument — depicted in showcase signature Ocoee talent , flavors and small Stanley’s mural — serving as a reminder that such a businesses . The second event takes place on the 100 - monumental , centennial milestone inevitably year anniversary of Ocoee’s official incorporation as a contains adversity and that Ocoee residents and The City of Ocoee city on May 13 . Collected mementos from both the leaders must learn from it in order to progress and city and its community members will fill a time to heal as a community . Ocoee.org 8 ORLANDO FAMILY april 2025 ORLANDOFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM