Restaurants • January 11, 2026

Restaurants Citrus County Early Winter 2026

by Linda Thomas

My first restaurant blog for 2026. We returned to a couple of places we had not been to in years. We certainly enjoy the variety we have to choose from now in Citrus County.

You just can’t beat the fresh seafood at Seafood Seller in Crystal River. Our party of 10 enjoyed red snapper, Mahi mahi, Fried shrimp, Shrimp scampi, Grouper sandwich, and for dessert Beignets.

Dans Clam Stand in Crystal River: also a great place for seafood. They have live whole lobsters there. Their fried shrimp is very good…Served two different ways. People also had oysters, the grouper finger basket, and a whole 3 pound lobster!

When we first moved here some 25 years ago, Chicken King (486-41) in Hernando was noted for his fried chicken…It has been years since we ordered from there., One day when we were out on our bikes, we decided to stop there for lunch. We ordered the wings, but they were more like fried chicken. They had good vegetable beef soup, and the coleslaw is very good.

Feeling under the weather for New Year’s Eve, we ordered barbecue from 220 Barbeque, Beverly Hills. It’s been awhile since we ordered something from them. The ribs are very good …I like that they do not put the sauce on the ribs…get to add as much as we personally like. Generous portions. The cornbread is delicious. Coleslaw is good.

After Christmas, as I said, we were under the weather, and so we’ve had several takeouts. We have enjoyed Lecanto Panera Bread’s breakfast and lunch sandwiches as well as, the summer squash soup.

Las Magueyes Beverly Hills. We had not had Mexican in a while so we decided to try dinner there this week. Two of us ordered enchiladas, and two of us ordered taco salads ( one chicken and one beef). SERVICE is good and the prices are reasonable.

Blackwater Grille: We had friends coming in from out of town, and so we wanted to treat them to a nice scenic setting restaurant. We drove out to Yankeetown. They were 20 minutes late seating us for our reservation, took quite a while for the food to be cooked. There were several large parties there that night. But the food was excellent. Both Art and Rick had the red snapper cooked Mediterranean style. And Katie and I both had the shrimp dinner cooked Pam style, which has extra shrimp in a cream sauce. Needless to say, Kate and I brought plenty of shrimp home, and the coleslaw is huge too. You see in the picture. They make a wonderful cobbler if you love dessert.

BRUNCHES/LUNCHES:

Firehouse Subs, Lecanto is so convenient for us that we like the ease in picking up a sub (ordered ahead of time ).

We have had Wawa breakfast sandwiches and they’re pretty good.

At Black Diamond Club: last month… we’ve had the tomato soup which was good. I like the breakfast sandwich and the chicken quesadilla, and Art enjoys the hotdog.

Jimmy T’s NY Deli Hernando has great Boars Head meat sandwiches.

New England Cafe Beverly Hills for Friday lunch: New England clam chowder and tuna melt.

Restaurants • November 23, 2025

Citrus County Fall Restaurant Update

by Linda Thomas

Time for monthly restaurant update. We had some good meals out. We have a lot more choices these days …

Crackers Crystal River: We wanted to see how they were coming along after the hurricane damage. Still working in repairs. Food is good and reasonable priced. Scallops and fish are good with lots of sides included.

: scallops

Katch 22 Lecanto: good sized group ordered: Cauliflower, Sea bass, Short ribs, Steak, Wedge salad, Scallops, Shrimp pasta, red snapper, beet salad and bread is included. Gourmet food and good service.

Seafood Seller Crystal River: Popular restaurant for fresh fish, always a wait to get it. Large group ordered: mussels, steam shrimp, grouper sandwich, mahi, and the chowders are very good.

Mexican Los Magueyes Beverly Hills: Our large group overwhelmed them. Four of watched the other eight eat their meal before ours was delivered. Orders included: alhombre, taco salad, fajita salad, quesadilla, and tacos. Food is good and reasonable.

: alhombre

Bonefish in Brooksville; Wednesday is “bang bang” shrimp 1/2 price. Art and I split the wahoo fish (very fresh fish and excellent), augrautin potatoes, Caesar salad; Karen had house salad—it is one of the best around! and lobster ravioli but she said it was not as good as Carrabbas… Mike liked his lobster tails. Bread basket included.

La Casa Di Norma Crystal River: We enjoy this small quiet restaurant where the food is excellent. Mike and I had crab ravioli with shrimp; Art had veal marsala and Karen had a special ravioli dish…

Oscar Penn’s Inverness: quiet night there…we enjoyed Chilean seabass and beef tips with noodles.

Black Diamond buffets: Food Bank dinner; open season party, Both very tasty.

Lunches

Jimmy T. NY Deli Hernando : chicken soup , turkey club, tuna melt, Cuban, Reuben our favs

Black Diamond Club I love the lobster roll, tuna melt on regular bread and chicken salad; the Inslee bbq lunch was very good.

New England Cafe: Beverly Hills : clam chowder Friday, tuna melt, and good cookies.

Cattledog Roasters: cranberry chicken salad on pumpernickel, $9 lobster roll on Friday,

Panera Lecanto: chicken soup, toasted Italiano kitchen sandwich and “ to die for: kitchen sink cookie!

Real Estate • November 14, 2025

Moving Closer to Family Without Losing Yourself: Finding Connection, Space, and Growth

by Linda Thomas

Image via Freepik

From guest blogger Bonnie:

Moving Closer to Family Without Losing Yourself: Finding Connection, Space, and Growth

Relocating to be near family is one of those life moves that mixes excitement with a touch of apprehension. You picture Sunday dinners, spontaneous coffee runs, maybe even a little free childcare—but also the need for privacy, autonomy, and self-direction. Striking the right balance between closeness and independence isn’t about distance—it’s about design.

TL;DR

Moving near family is rewarding but works best when you:

Pick the right neighborhood (comfortable proximity matters more than exact mileage).
Set healthy boundaries early and clearly.
Use the move for growth—career, education, and lifestyle.
Invest in your independence while celebrating connection.

Finding Your Perfect Place

Choosing the right neighborhood is about more than price and commute. It’s about your emotional and physical ecosystem. Look for:

A walkable area—use Walk Score to compare communities.
A mix of parks, cafes, and coworking spaces—these help you maintain your own social rhythm.
Good local schools or learning hubs—handy whether you have kids or want to study yourself.
Safe, quiet streets balanced with nearby bustle (check NeighborhoodScout for local data).

FAQ: Common Questions About Moving Near Family

Q1: How close is “too close”?
There’s no universal rule—but being within 15–30 minutes allows spontaneity without intrusion.

Q2: What if I feel obligated to say yes to everything?
It’s okay to decline invitations. Consistency builds mutual respect faster than overcommitment.

Q3: How do I adjust socially after moving back?
Start with a community group, volunteer role, or hobby class. Check out Meetup or local library boards for low-pressure introductions.

Q4: Should I rent or buy first?
Renting offers flexibility to test the waters—use Realtor.com to explore short leases while deciding.

Setting Boundaries That Strengthen Relationships

Boundaries sound restrictive, but they actually protect relationships from friction. Here’s how to establish yours gracefully:

1. Define Your Privacy Zones.
Decide which spaces are yours—your home, your time, your calendar.

2. Communicate Early.
Set expectations for visits, childcare, or unplanned drop-ins.

3. Use “I” Statements.
Say, “I love spending time with you—let’s plan weekends instead of weekdays,” to prevent defensiveness.

4. Leave Room for Flexibility.
Life happens. Leave room to bend, not break.

Balancing Connection vs. Independence

Goal	Connection Action	Independence Action
Daily Routine	Share a morning walk with a family member	Schedule solo coffee shop work hours
Holidays	Rotate hosting duties	Spend one celebration just with your household
Support System	Offer help during family events	Keep one weekend per month for rest
Communication	Create a shared family group chat	Silence notifications after 9 p.m.

How-To Checklist — Making the Most of the Transition

Do a “values audit.” List what matters most—proximity, affordability, career options, autonomy.
Map your network. Who can help (family, friends, community groups)?
Set up dual goals: one personal (like fitness) and one professional (like skill-building).
Establish a mini-routine before you unpack fully—stability speeds adaptation.
Explore your surroundings using apps like Yelp for quick discoveries.
Plan visits, not surprises. Scheduling helps everyone stay grounded.
Find your “third space.” A local gym, park, or café can become your independence anchor.

Rebuilding Roots Through Learning and Career Growth

Returning home doesn’t mean standing still. Going back to school locally or online is a powerful way to expand your network and reinforce your independence. Education can also bridge personal and professional goals—helping you meet like-minded people, learn practical skills, and create new career pathways.

Pursuing a bachelors of business administration can equip you with tools in accounting, management, and communications while you’re building your new life. Online programs make it easier to juggle work, family, and studies, so you can progress at your own pace while staying connected at home.

Featured Product Spotlight — Creating Calm in Your Space

Adjusting to life near family can mean more guests, more noise, and more to organize. Consider using a smart home system like Google Nest Hub, which lets you set quiet hours, manage lighting, and create peaceful routines. It’s a subtle way to preserve calm and independence while staying accessible.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth Transition

Join a local coworking hub such as WeWork.
Volunteer at community gardens or local nonprofits.
Use Calendly for family scheduling—it saves awkward “you never told me” moments.
Order groceries online through Instacart to save time.
Subscribe to local newsletters or Nextdoor for community updates.
Explore small-business programs via SBA.gov.
Try a weekend getaway every quarter to reset your independence rhythm.

Moving closer to family is less about geography and more about boundaries, communication, and self-awareness. You can be both present and independent—sharing life’s everyday moments while cultivating your own space to grow. The real success lies in creating a life that feels connected, balanced, and wholly your own.

Real Estate • Uncategorized • October 31, 2025

Easy Fixes to Boost a Home’s Curb Appeal

by Linda Thomas

Small, affordable updates, like fresh paint, tidy gardens and lighting, can instantly improve a home’s first impression and strengthen its resale value.

First impressions can shape whether buyers even walk through the front door. Buyers often decide whether to tour a home based on its exterior. Common curb appeal mistakes can easily be fixed with affordable updates that boost a property’s first impression and value:

*Cracked and stained driveways give the sense of poor upkeep, but power washing and sealing can restore them for under $200. (side note: Spoke to two handymen about the sealing cost and they say the sealant is expensive and an average job would not be $200. more$$$)

*Overgrown gardens look disheveled and chaotic. Trimming shrubs, pulling weeds and adding mulch often costs less than $100.

*Faded or peeling paint makes even sturdy homes look dated, while a fresh coat on a front door in navy, green or black delivers instant impact.

*Porches cluttered with old furniture or tools distract buyers, so clearing the space and adding simple touches like potted plants makes it more welcoming.

*Dim entryways or broken fixtures suggest safety concerns, but solar lights under $50 quickly brighten the approach.

*Worn or damaged fencing not only looks dated but raises privacy and security worries. Even small repairs or repainting can help frame the property in a positive light.

*Small, inexpensive updates like these reassure buyers the home has been cared for and can support a stronger resale price.

Real Estate • October 25, 2025

How to Price and “Ready” Your Home for Sale

by Linda Thomas

This week I include a few articles on pricing and staging your home for sale, and doing a pre-listing home inspection…

Pre-listing home inspections: Real estate professionals are reporting a rise in home buyers getting cold feet before closing. A common culprit? A negative home inspection report. The number of canceled contracts has been ticking up in recent months. It’s currently at 6% nationwide, according to the latest REALTORS® Confidence Index.

link to full article:Agents Turn to Pre-Listing Inspections to Prevent Canceled Contracts

Pre-Sale Upgrades May Speed Up Home Sales

Strategic pre-sale improvements like fresh paint, updated landscaping or modernized bathrooms can significantly enhance a home’s appeal, speed up the sale and increase profit, yet are frequently overlooked. Most of the time it is because sellers can’t or don’t want to pay the upfront cost or their inexperienced agents are rushing the home onto the market, even though move-in ready homes often sell faster.

link to full article:Pre-Sale Upgrades May Speed Up Home Sales | Florida Realtors

National Association of Realtors article on pricing:

As a home seller, one of the most important questions to ask your agent is how to determine your home’s listing, or asking, price. Here is what sellers should know about home pricing:

What characteristics of my home will my agent evaluate? Agents will consider many factors when determining their recommended listing price, including, but not limited to, your home’s size, location, amenities, and property condition.

How does the market affect home pricing? In addition to the specific characteristics of your home, current market conditions can have a significant impact on your ultimate asking price. For example, in a market where high interest rates are discouraging prospective home buyers, your agent may recommend lowering the asking price to attract more buyers. Neighborhood developments and trending buyer preferences will also help your agent fine-tune their pricing strategy.

What are “comps”? Comparable sales, or comps, are similar properties that have recently sold in the same area and are used to create a comparative market analysis (CMA). A CMA is an estimate of a property’s value based on comps in the market area that have recently sold, are under contract, or are currently active. This research will help your agent determine your home’s suggested listing price.

What if I want to sell my home as quickly as possible? Your agent will factor your goals and timeline into their listing price recommendation. If you want to sell quickly you may price your home more competitively, while sellers who have more time may set a higher asking price.

Are there any actions I can take to increase my home value? In addition to evaluating the condition of your property, your agent will consider any upgrades or renovations that may increase its value, as well as any issues or repairs that may need to be addressed before listing. You can work with your agent as you prepare to sell your home to decide how best to maximize your home’s value through these potential actions. You may also consider offering certain concessions to help attract buyers, such as covering the cost of home repairs.

Can I ask multiple agents how they would price my home before deciding who to work with? Yes. While you may receive similar recommendations from different agents, an agent’s familiarity with your property’s market may affect their suggested listing price. You can meet with multiple agents before choosing your preferred agent and signing a listing agreement, which includes the established listing price for your home.

Do I have the final say on my asking price? Yes. Your agent will work with you to recommend a listing price that best meets your goals, but you have the final say. However, a key benefit of working with agents who are REALTORS® is leveraging their expertise and knowledge of useful tools, such as the REALTORS® Property Resource, to help inform these decisions.

Is it ever a good idea to accept an offer below my listing price? Your agent will help you evaluate offers. Sometimes the highest offer is not the best offer—cash offers, for example, can speed up the sale process. Contingencies, or the absence of, can also have an impact on the strength of an offer.

Why might my agent recommend lowering my listing price? While the decision to lower the asking price will depend on your specific goals, your agent may recommend considering a lower ask for a variety of reasons, including factors that are dependent on the current market conditions.

Practices may vary based on state and local law. Consult your real estate professional and/or an attorney for details about state law where you are purchasing a home. Please visit facts.realtor for more information and resources.

REALTORS® are members of the National Association of Realtors

Restaurants • Uncategorized • October 18, 2025

Restaurant Report Citrus County October 2025

by Linda Thomas

In the last month we had some great dining experiences.

Learned of a new restaurant: The Three Musketeers, in Crystal River: open Thursday to Monday . We need to check it out. 310 Citrus Ave ( a recommendation from Nextdoor app) 352-586-2450. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575355070454#

Inverness Oscar Penn’s is one of our favorite dining venues. Creative entrees, nice setting and good service. Our group enjoyed: Red snapper Florentine, mussels and clams, Grouper Mediterranean style, ribs, Shrimp Alfredo, and Chicken Stir fry.

Texas Roadhouse Lecanto: I don’t know how they consistently do it, but this restaurant seems to be always hustling because they have good food and great service! It’s a little noisy, but worth it for a good priced and tasty meal. Call ahead. Our table had “Road kill,” Rib steaks, grilled shrimp, and Caesars salad . Excellent.

Wallace’s GREENHOUSE Homosassa: Truly a gourmet restaurant

The service is always good, portions large, and prices are fairly reasonable, and we had a large table that night . We enjoyed: Lobster bisque, parmesan cod, Caprese salad (wrong kind of tomatoes), Pasta with shrimp, salmon, loaded chips, Cobia fish with salsa, vegetable with rice. or fries, and pork chop. They still bring bread to the table!

: large portions

: large portions

: lol good wrong type tomatoes

Sauced Hog (Hernando)

This is a great place for a reasonably priced and great tasting barbecue. Very popular local restaurant, been in business for many years. Karen had pork loin and Mike had a barbecue pulled pork sandwich. Art had beef brisket and I had half a slab of ribs. Yummy coleslaw; the baked potatoes are huge. The pork and beans are good and the potato salad is very good.

Dan’s Clam Crystal River: A good local restaurant for seafood has been famous for their hamburgers. We enjoyed lightly battered fried shrimp (Colossal size and regular size), hamburgers, clams, grouper finger basket, and onion rings. Busy on a Friday, but service was good. We all enjoyed our meals. Key lime pie is good too.

BRUNCH/ LUNCH

Firehouse subs (Lecanto) We love trying the variety of subs they offer. Hook and Ladder and Club Sub our favorites so far.

New England Cafe Beverly Hills: clam chowder Fridays. We’ve always enjoyed their tuna melt and seafood salad, but the clam chowder is as good as any of I’ve had!

Hernando JIMMY T’S NY Deli: chicken noodle soup, turkey club, tuna melt, chicken salad.

BLACK DIAMOND : lobster roll. Turkey dinner was very good.

Cattledogs Roasters (several locations): New menu but love the lobster roll on Fridays ($9!), and pecan chicken salad sandwich on pumpernickel.

Cannot say enough good about the Lecanto’s Chopping Block Meat Market. I Call Ahead. They also carry prime beef, sausage, bacon, chicken, gourmet burgers, pork products, and have frozen seafood and many specialty meat choices, some produce and specialty items . Check them out. (352) 249-7680

Home Maintenance • Real Estate • TO DO • October 10, 2025

Who To Call for Home Services

by Linda Thomas

This week’s Blog: Eight things you should clean every month according to professional cleaners, and an updated who to call list that includes additions for landscape help and painters.

GOOD RESOURCE: The nextdoor app:

Join Nextdoor, an app for neighborhoods where you can get local tips, buy and sell items, and more . https://nextdoor.com/

Eight places in your home you should clean each month according to professional cleaners that includes fan blades, trash cans, baseboars, kitchen cabninets, air vents etc:

full article:8 Things Professional Cleaners Say You Should Clean Every Month

WHO TO CALL FOR SERVICES:

PDF: wh0 to call 10:2025

Home Maintenance • Real Estate • senior living • October 3, 2025

Making A Home for “Aging” In

by Linda Thomas

Image: Freepik

Key Features Aging Home Buyers Should Look for in a Home Built for Aging in Place

Aging in place isn’t about giving up on change—it’s about controlling it. If you’re planning to stay in your next home for the long run, you need more than just charm or curb appeal. You need function, flow, and foresight. The home has to work for your future, not just your now. Small inconveniences today can become real risks tomorrow. That’s why choosing the right features up front is one of the smartest decisions you can make.

Single-Level Floor Plans
Stairs are one of the first things to become a problem, even for active adults. A single-level layout reduces fall risk, minimizes strain, and simplifies daily movement. All essential areas—bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, laundry—should be on the main floor. Homes with zero-step entries or ramps provide extra convenience without feeling clinical. It’s not just about safety; it’s about energy. The fewer physical barriers you have, the longer your independence lasts.

Wide Doorways and Open Hallways
Mobility needs change—walkers, wheelchairs, even just extra space for careful movement can quickly become non-negotiable. A home with 36-inch doorways and spacious hallways makes navigation smoother and safer. This layout helps not only you, but also family, visitors, or caregivers down the line. Cramped corridors become frustrating fast. Open floor plans also reduce the number of tight turns or pinch points. Give yourself room to move comfortably now so you don’t have to retrofit later.

Modern Appliances
New appliances do more than just look good—they reduce physical strain, improve safety, and save time. Features like wall-mounted ovens, side-by-side refrigerators, and front-load washers eliminate awkward bending and lifting. But even new appliances break. That’s why investing in a home warranty is smart—it can cover unexpected repairs and replacements. Look for coverage that includes removal of broken units and protection against breakdowns caused by bad installations or improper repairs—click here for more info. Peace of mind is a feature worth paying for.

Accessible Bathroom Fixtures
Bathrooms are the most common sites of injury for older adults, and many of those incidents are preventable. A zero-threshold shower removes the need to step over a ledge, reducing trip risk. Grab bars aren’t just for emergencies—they offer stability during routine use. Comfort-height toilets reduce joint strain, while non-slip surfaces give critical traction. Even the faucet and shower controls matter—lever-style handles are easier to operate with reduced grip strength. Think of this space not as clinical, but as quietly capable.

Non-Slip Surfaces and Ample Lighting
Good lighting is one of the most overlooked safety features. Aging eyes take longer to adjust and are more sensitive to glare or shadows. Bright, even lighting—especially in hallways, kitchens, and bathrooms—makes a huge difference. Flooring matters too: hard, non-slip surfaces with minimal transitions keep movement smooth and steady. Avoid rugs or raised thresholds that can catch your foot or cane. The right combination of lighting and surface traction is preventative care disguised as design.

Flexible and Adaptable Room Layouts
The way you use space today won’t always be the way you use it tomorrow. A guest room could eventually become an in-home caregiver suite. A hobby room may turn into a quiet medical space or resting area. Look for homes that allow for flexible use—wide doorframes, minimal built-ins, and easy access from central areas. Avoid overly rigid layouts that limit future reconfiguration. The more your home can adapt to you, the less you’ll need to adapt to it.

Universal Design Details Throughout
Universal design isn’t just about accessibility—it’s about removing unnecessary friction from your day. Lever door handles are easier on arthritic hands than knobs. Light switches placed slightly lower and outlets positioned higher reduce bending. Touchless faucets and voice-activated systems remove the need for fine motor control. These features don’t just support aging—they create ease for everyone. A home designed this way simply feels more natural and less effortful.

A home designed for aging in place isn’t about limitations—it’s about lasting freedom. You’re building a foundation for the next decade of your life, and that means thinking ahead while you still have options. When you plan now, you protect your comfort, safety, and dignity later. Aging well means aging wisely, and that starts with your surroundings. Choose a home that won’t age out before you do. You’re not just buying real estate—you’re buying runway.

Discover the charm of Citrus County, Florida, and find your dream home. Explore the best of the Nature Coast and start living the good life today!

Greek Festital 2025: October 17,18,19 flier: Greek festival

TO DO • September 26, 2025

Citrus County Annual and Upcoming Events

by Linda Thomas

What’s coming up “to do” in the Citrus County, FL area? I include many of the annual area festivals. Some do not have definite dates for this year yet, but I tried to include an info link. The info link is listed separately or click on the name of the event.

to do link cc: https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/things-to-do/

MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR BD’s Reese Norris performances at the Homosassa Distillery Friday 10/17 and Friday 11/14 from 6 to 9 pm

Year-round: Market at The Depot; Inverness: 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month; 9 am- 1 pm

September

September 27: Bark in the Park; Floral Park 10-12.

October

October 4: Cooter Festival (activities all month) 10-5
Rock out at this three-day music festival at Liberty Park in Inverness. Enjoy beautiful Lake Henderson, live performances, family-friendly carnival rides, food vendors, and more. (October 31 trick or treating and costume contest.

http://www.inverness-fl.gov/685/Cootertober

October 4: Phil Royal Legacy: 9 th Annual Royal Run; Citrus High School

October 11; Heritage Village Scarecrow Festival 10 am
Bring the kids to this fall celebration at Heritage Village in Crystal River. This festival features pony rides, hayrides, a pumpkin patch and live performances.

http://www.theshoppesofheritagevillage.com/UpcomingEvents.html

Withlacoochee Annual Ride October 5,
On the first Sunday in October, join the cyclists who will ride all 46 miles of the beautiful Withlacoochee State Trail. Or signup to volunteer at this family-friendly event.

https://www.fotwst.org/copy-of-about-us-4

OCTOBER 17-19 ANNUAL Greek Festival Art and Vendor Expo ” Archangel Michael’s Greek Orthodox Church

October 18, Annual CC Blessings Charity Costume Ball 352-341-7707

October 24 Trunk or Treat Crystal River 243 NE 7 th Terrace 352-794-3415

November

Stone Crab Jam; 12-10pm November 1, 9-6pm 560 N Citrus Ave
Sponsored by The Kings Bay Rotary, don’t miss this street festival featuring fresh stone crabs, beer and wine, and live music on three stages. https://stonecrabjam.com/wordpress/

November 1, Lake Hernando Dragon Boat Festival 5am-1 pm 3650 E Lake Pl

November 1: Hooliganism & Monster Trucks: 10-8pm Citrus County Fair Grounds 940-577-2698

Inverness Festival of the Arts ; November 15-16; 10-4pm
An Inverness tradition since 1971, on the first weekend in November, join art lovers to browse 100 booths of fine arts and crafts at this free two-day event.

https://inverness.gov/527/Festival-of-the-Arts

Blues “N Bar-B-Que Mark your calendars. Live blues and mouth-watering barbecue make for a perfect combination at this fun outdoor festival in Homosassa.

https://www.ncfob.com/

Ozello Arts, Crafts, & Blue Crab Festival
A tradition celebrating all things arts, crafts, and blue crab. Enjoy food, drinks, locally made goods, and lots of delicious blue crab delicacies. https://ozello.net/ozello-civic-association/ozello-arts-craft-festival/

Homosassa Arts, Crafts & Seafood Festival (5oth anniversary!) November 8-9; Head to historic Homosassa for fresh seafood, a juried art show, crafts and live entertainment; 5530 S Mason Creek Rd; https://homosassaseafoodfestival.org/50th-anniversary-homosassa-arts-crafts-seafood-festival/

Black Diamond Car Show: Contact Rotary Club

www.blackdiamondinvitationalcarshow.com

December

Celebration of Lights: Dec. 19-23; 26-27 5:30-9 pm enjoy thousands of sparkling lights in the synchronized holiday sound and light show; 4150 S Suncoast Blvd, Homosassa Sponsored by the friends of Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park.

Crystal River Christmas Parade December 6: 6 PM

Floral City Heritage Days held on the first weekend of December this fun and educational event showcases Floral City’s early days. Guests will enjoy: Dress demonstrations, horse cart rides, historic home tours and more.

December 6, 6 pm; Crystal River Tree Lighting; downtown Crystal River; https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/events/

Inverness Christmas Parade December 13,

Fort Cooper Nights of Lights, Fort Cooper State Park will be decked out in lights for this must see Holiday event. Walk under a canopy of sparkling lights, make your own s’mores, and enjoy holiday music and refreshments. https//thefriendsoffortcooper.com

Homosassa River Christmas Boat Parade; A dazzling way to celebrate the holidays with your family. Watch as HOLIDAY themed boats parade down the Homosassa waterfront.

Light Up the Lake; Inverness ; kids will love this Christmas celebration in Inverness featuring train rides live music light displays and a visit from Santa. https://www.inverness-fl.gov/528/Light-Up-the-Lakeup-the-Lake

January

Manatee Festival ( in Crystal River) January 17-18; https://www.gomanateefest.com

February

Ozello Craft Show & Chili Cookoff
Who will win the annual chili cookoff? This family-friendly event features a craft show and lots of delicious chili to sample.

https://ozello.net/ozello-civic-association/ozello-craft-show-chili-cookoff/

March

March 3- Cocktail Party/Silent Auction 4C Fighting Cancer in CC. GOLF tournament

Shrimp-a-Palooza
An annual festival presented by The Rotary Club of Homosassa Charitable Foundation. Join thousands of party goers for a day of food, fun, and live music.

Fort Cooper Days
A historical reenactment from the Second Seminole War. See the battle, experience authentic weapons and uniforms, and enjoy food and refreshments.

Clean Air Ride
This bike ride on the Withlacoochee State Trail benefits the Key Training Center. With four distances ranging from 14 to 100 miles, there’s a way for participants of all skill levels and abilities to join in the fun!

Inverness Big Bass Classic
Anglers will love this annual bass fishing tournament which pays out $1,000 in prizes to the biggest catch every hour!

Floral City Strawberry Festival
Celebrate local producers with fresh and delicious strawberry shortcakes and on-site cooking demos at one of the top events of the year.

Inverness St. Patrick’s Day Festival
Inverness knows how to do St. Patrick’s Day right! Paint the town green with a pub crawl, free live music, and much more.

St. Patrick’s Day on Citrus Avenue
Wear your green and celebrate all things Irish with a parade, live music, and much more on Citrus Avenue.

April

Fort Cooper Bluegrass Festival
Bring your lawn chair and head to Fort Cooper State Park for live bluegrass, food, drinks, and craft vendors under the shady canopy of oak trees.

Taste of Inverness
A food and beer festival in Inverness, featuring a competition for area chefs. Experience the food and fun with live music, art vendors, and more.

May

June

Homosassa River Fireworks Fest & Poker Run
An all-day poker run on the Homosassa River followed by a brilliant fireworks display make for a day of outdoor fun for the entire family!

https://monkeyislandriversideresort.com/

July

Inverness Patriotic Evening
Celebrate the 4th of July in Inverness with a stunning fireworks display over Lake Henderson and live music.

https://www.inverness-fl.gov/550/Patriotuc-Evening

4th of July Celebration
Crystal River’s annual 4th of July celebration takes place at Kings Bay Park and includes a parade, fireworks, live entertainment, food, beer, and wine – and more!

August

Pine Street Jam & Parrothead Party
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Restaurants • September 20, 2025

Restaurant Update Citrus County Fall 2025

by Linda Thomas

We took a little time off this summer and, so have not been to many restaurants until recently, We returned for dinner at Bayside Kraft Kitchen, Back Water Fins Grill and La Casa di Norma. Our favorite places for lunch are still: Jimmy T.‘s New York Deli, New England Café, Panera Bread and Cattledog Coffee Roasters. We did try the new Central Cafe and Bakery in Inverness for lunch.

Bayside Kraft Kitchen (Crystal River) on a Friday when we were there, was missing a chef so SERVICE was not very good. With eight of us for dinner, they delivered our meals, like one at a time instead of everybody getting their meal at once. And, in fact, the last person to receive the meal had to send the overcooked steak back. Not in a hurry to go back there. Pam: salad with chicken okay; Linda salad with shrimp spicy (too spicy); Pat’s chewy ribs not recommended; Don’s steak sent back; Art and John red snapper special was good; Lloyd’s chowder; and shrimp pasta good and Joan lobster tails were good.

Backwater Fins Seafood (Crystal River)) is worth the half hour ride there. It’s been a while since I were there, but their clam chowder is still the best! On Fridays, they have all you can eat haddock for $15.

Our group ordered the following food and everybody was very happy: Clam chowder or crab bisque; Red fish, Haddock, Seafood pasta; Fish tacos; fried shrimp ; oysters, crab balls (all bread not much crab); Cole slaw is good.

We love the size and quiet dining at LaCasa di Norma (Crystal River). Food is excellent. Art enjoys veal marsala, Mike and I like the crab ravioli with shrimp and Karen had the red snapper fresh catch.

LUNCHES:

Central Cafe and Bakery (Inverness) We stopped for lunch and split a Ham and Cheese sandwich…fries are spicy and salty! As a bakery they offered only one kind of pie. Cookies were okay. Not in a hurry to return.

The New England Café (Beverly Hills) serves a good seafood salad, tuna melt and Cuban. At Jimmy T.’s DELI (Hernando) : Art likes his chicken noodle soup almost every time he goes, and we’ve had Cubans there, tuna melts, club sandwiches and pressed crispy wrap. Good chicken salad too.

Panera Bread ’s (Lecanto) menu is always worth checking out. We had a nice sandwich, soup and “everything” cookie there recently.

Cattledog Roasters (multi locations) on Friday they have an excellent lobster roll for $9.00, and the Inverness location has live music at lunch time. We like their pecan cranberry chicken salad and spinach salad.

Black Diamond Club now that we have the dining room open again: I did like their lobster roll special for lunch and chicken pot pie blue plate Sunday dinner. I like the chicken salad. We eat breakfast there every Sunday.

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