Are you looking for fun in Gainesville this weekend? If so, we got you! Here are some of the best things to do in Gainesville over the weekend.
In search of future fun? Visit this blog every week to stay on top of the best upcoming events. Or check out our Community Calendar!
July 26 – 28
Tioga Concert Night featuring The Couch Messiahs
Friday, July 26
7 – 10 p.m.
Bo Diddley Plaza
At this Tioga Concert Night, bring your lawn chairs and blankets and get ready to enjoy live music by The Couch Messiahs! Learn more.
Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza
Friday, July 26
7 – 9 p.m.
Bo Diddley Plaza
Every Friday through August, you can see amazing free music at Bo Diddley Plaza with the Free Fridays Concert Series! This week, enjoy live music at the MusicGNV Showcase: Tribute to Gainesville Bands. Read more.
Depot Park Parkrun
Saturday, July 27
7:30 – 10 a.m.
Depot Park
Depot Park Parkrun is a free, weekly, timed 5K open to everyone, both runners and walkers! Parkrun is a global movement to encourage people to enjoy an active lifestyle. First-time runners must register one time at parkrun.us/register and bring the emailed barcode with them to the event. Find out more here.
July 19 – 21
The Florida Vintage Market
Sunday, July 21
Noon – 5 p.m.
Midpoint Park Eatery
The Florida Vintage Market is returning to Gainesville! There will be over 60 local vintage vendors and small businesses with unique items, including vintage clothing, jewelry and handmade items, to browse. There will also be be food trucks, and you can enjoy a bite to eat at Midpoint Eatery. This event is pet friendly. See more.
Natural Beauty Fest
Saturday, July 20
Noon – 6 p.m.
Deerwood Castle
Come out to embrace the inclusion of different beauty products. There will be live music and vendors showcasing skin care products, jewelry, art and more. Celebrate what makes beauty beautiful in Jacksonville! Learn more.
Comedian EDEN SHER: I Was on a Sitcom
Sunday, July 21
7 – 11 p.m.
The Wooly
Eden Sher starred on the ABC show “The Middle” for 9 years as Sue Heck. Watch Sher in her one-woman comedy show at the Wooly! Doors open at 7 p.m. Continue reading.
July 12 – 14
Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza
Friday, July 12
7 – 9 p.m.
Bo Diddley Plaza
Every Friday through August, you can see amazing free music at Bo Diddley Plaza with the Free Fridays Concert Series! This week, enjoy the Ox Showcase, including country music from Short Stack, Cooper, Jenna Clark. Read more.
July Tioga Movie Night: Jumanji
Friday, July 12
7 – 9 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
Celebrate summer with your friends and family by enjoying an outdoor movie. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs! Learn more.
Jazz on the Green at Celebration Pointe
Saturday, July 13
7 – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe Promenade
At Jazz on the Green, you can relax outside on a blanket and enjoy live music, food, drinks and more! Smooth Operatives will be performing on stage in the Promenade. Keep reading.
The SSAS Event: Fashion Show and Vendor Expo
Sunday, July 14
11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Best Western Gateway Grand
The SSAS Event: Fashion Show and Vendor Expo will be full of glam, shopping and fun! There will be 25 local vendors selling clothes, jewelry, desserts and more. You can also enjoy a mocktail, get a facial and watch Women in the Garden: A Runway Fashion Show. Learn more.
July 4 – 7
Independence Day
Thursday, July 4
Various locations
Celebrate the USA today! Check out our list of the best 4th of July events happening near you.
Goth Night: The Gainesville Oddities Market and Gainesville Fear Garden
Saturday, July 6
7 – 11 p.m.
Gainesville Fear Garden
The Gainesville Fear Garden and the Gainesville Oddities Market are hosting Goth Night, a fear-meets-oddities event! There will be a live DJ, food trucks and 30 oddity vendors! Oddities will include taxidermy, bones, bugs, crystals and more. Keep reading.
Gainesville Cars & Coffee at Tioga
Saturday, July 6
9 – 11 a.m.
Tioga Town Center
At Cars & Coffee at Tioga, local automotive enthusiasts can get together and enjoy a cup of coffee while looking at everyone’s vehicles! All cars are welcome, regardless of whether they are imports, exotics or classics. Learn more.
Birds and Brews: Guided Bird Walks
Sunday, July 7
5:45 – 7 p.m.
First Magnitude Brewing Co.
Join First Magnitude and the Alachua Audubon Society for an informal guided bird-watching tour at Depot Park. Enjoy drinks at the brewery afterward! Learn more here.
June 21 – 23
Tioga Movie Night: Trolls Band Together
Friday, June 21
7 – 9 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
Bring your whole family to this Tioga Movie Night and enjoy the movie “Trolls Band Together” to celebrate the beginning of summer! Don’t forget your blankets and lawn chairs. Learn more.
Summer Soulstice Festival
Saturday, June 22
4 – 11 p.m.
Heartwood Soundstage
Heartwood Soundstage and The Savants are hosting the Summer Soulstice Festival! Doors open at 4 p.m. and the show begins at 4:45 p.m. The show is outdoors, and there will be standing room with limited seating. All ages are welcome! Performers include: The Savants, Lemon City Trio, Raspberry Pie, The Shaelyn Band, The Funky Miracle and Voodoo Child Trio. Find out more and buy tickets here.
The Florida Vintage Market
Sunday, June 23
Noon – 5 p.m.
Midpoint Park Eatery
The Florida Vintage Market is returning to Gainesville! There will be over 60 local vintage vendors and small businesses with unique items including vintage clothing, jewelry and handmade items to browse. There will also be be food trucks, and you can enjoy a bite to eat at Midpoint Eatery. This event is pet friendly. Keep reading.
June 14 – 16
Tioga Concert Night featuring Late Night Delivery
Friday, June 14
7 – 10 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
At this Tioga Concert Night, bring your lawn chairs and blankets and come enjoy free live music by Late Night Delivery! Read more.
Journey to Juneteenth Freedom Walk 5K
Saturday, June 15
7 – 10:30 a.m.
Depot Park
The City of Gainesville is hosting the Journey to Juneteenth Freedom Walk “to educate and engage the Gainesville community on the rich history, legacy and resilience of Black and African Americans locally and nationally.” During the walk, there will be booths sharing the history of these local neighborhoods: Porters Quarters, Springhill, Sugarhill and Lincoln Estates. Learn more.
Williston Watermelon Festival
Saturday, June 15
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Heritage Park Williston
Wild B Boutique is hosting the first annual Williston Watermelon Festival! This festival will be at Heritage Park, and it will have local shopping vendors, food trucks, free watermelon and more. Admission is free! Continue reading.
Kanapaha Gardens Father’s Day Special
Sunday, June 16
9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Spend some quality family time together in nature in this weekend! Fathers of all ages can enjoy the gardens for free on Father’s Day. Learn more.
June 6 – 9
The NCFAA 2024 “Hollywood Nights” Trade Show
Thursday, June 6
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Alachua County Sports & Event Center
The NCFAA 2024 “Hollywood Nights” Trade Show is a Hollywood-themed networking event where you can see over 60 exhibitors and learn about their products and services! You can also enjoy Hollywood-themed games, free dinner, entertainment and prizes. Find out more here.
Drink GNV Brewery Tour
Friday, June 7
3 – 8 p.m.
First Magnitude Brewing Co.
At the Drink GNV Brewery Tour, take a tour of Gainesville’s breweries, including Blackadder, Cypress & Grove, First Magnitude, Dry Wrought Cider and Swamp Head! Everyone will receive a commemorative DRINK GNV Pint Glass, a raffle ticket for gift cards and prizes and a snack and water on the bus. Learn more.
Depot Park Parkrun
Saturday, June 8
7:30 – 10 a.m.
Depot Park
Every Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m., you can go to Depot Park for the Depot Park Parkrun! It is a free, weekly, timed 5K open to everyone. You can run or walk, depending on what you prefer. Parkrun is a global movement to encourage people to enjoy an active lifestyle. First-time runners must register one time at parkrun.us/register and bring the emailed barcode with them to the event. Find out more here.
Jazz on the Green at Celebration Pointe
Saturday, June 8
7 – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe Promenade
At Jazz on the Green, you can relax outside on a blanket and enjoy live music, food, drinks and more! Smooth Operatives will be performing on stage in the Promenade. Keep reading.
May 31 – June 2
Gainesville Cars & Coffee at Tioga
Saturday, June 1
9 – 11 a.m.
Tioga Town Center
At Cars & Coffee at Tioga, local automotive enthusiasts can get together and enjoy a cup of coffee while looking at everyone’s vehicles! All cars are welcome, regardless of whether they are imports, exotics or classics. Read more.
Creek Family Fest
Saturday, June 1
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Tuscawilla Preserve
The Creek Family Fest is a free event! You can explore Tuscawilla Preserve and visit environmental education stations! Activities include bug catching, bird watching, arts and crafts and more. View the full schedule and learn more here.
American Heart Association Gainesville Heart Ball
Saturday, June 1
6:30 – 11 p.m.
Holloway Touchdown Terrace at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
American Heart Association Gainesville Heart Ball brings supporters together for an evening in the ballroom to raise the funds for the American Heart Association through a live auction. Learn more here.
Pink Fest
Saturday, June 1
11:00 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Celebration Pointe
Pink Fest brings awareness to all cancers while educating and uplifting the community. It recognizes those currently battling any form of cancer and those who have lost their battle with cancer. There is a 1K walk/run that will commence at noon. There will also be educational vendors, a DJ and more. Keep reading.
May 24-26
Amber Brooke Farms All-New Sweet Corn Festival
Saturday, May 25 –
Sunday, May 26
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Amber Brooke Farms Williston
Kick of the harvest season with this all-new festival! There will be u-pick corn, zucchini, squash, sunflowers, zinnias and more. You can also enjoy all-you-can-eat corn, food trucks, corn-themed activities, photo ops, live music and your favorite farm activities. See the full event schedule here.
Ocala Daisy Dash 5K
Saturday, May 25
8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
World Equestrian Center
At the Ocala Daisy Dash 5K, sign up to either run or walk a 5k on a professionally designed race course, finishing under the arch on the WEC Grand Plaza. Enjoy a pancake breakfast and all-day Spring Festival activities after the race. Read more and sign up.
Palatka Blue Crab Festival
Friday, May 24 –
Sunday, May 26
10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Downtown Palatka Waterfront
Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend at the Palatka Blue Crab Festival! For almost 30 years, this event has featured day-long concert line-ups, tons of vendors, food trucks, activities for all ages and a kids’ zone! Learn more here.
Memorial Day Events
Wondering what to do for Memorial Day Weekend? Find out what events are happening in the Gainesville area.
May 17 – 19
79th Annual Newberry Watermelon Festival
Saturday, May 18
9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Country Way Town Square
The 79th Annual Newberry Watermelon Festival will have over 100 vendors! Come out and enjoy food, arts, games, entertainment and a kids fun zone. Learn more.
Amber Brooke Farms All-New Sweet Corn Festival
Saturday, May 18 –
Sunday, May 19
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Amber Brooke Farms Williston
Kick of the harvest season with this all-new festival! There will be u-pick corn, zucchini, squash, sunflowers, zinnias and more. You can also enjoy all-you-can-eat corn, food trucks, corn-themed activities, photo ops, live music and your favorite farm activities. See the full event schedule here.
Habits for Healthier Digestion
Saturday, May 18
4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Heart Mind Healing
Learn about how to improve your digestion through sustainable nutrition, lifestyle and mindset strategies. Nutritional Therapist Megan Garza helps women holistically improve their digestion to reduce bloating, have regular bowel movements and alleviate food sensitivities. Use code WELLNESS10 to get 10% off your first class at Heart Mind Healing! Register here.
5th Annual .4K Oakmont Slacker Run
Saturday, May 18
10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
12027 SW 33rd Place
If you’ve been wanting to run a race but lack motivation or determination, this run is for you. Run less than a quarter of a mile, get a free shirt and help children in need at the Oakmont 5th Annual Slacker Run! All proceeds benefit the Child Advocacy Center. Learn more.
Know Your Numbers: Using the Enneagram and Numerology to Demystify Your Life
Sunday, May 19
2 – 4 p.m.
Heart Mind Healing
Learn about the energy of numbers and how the Enneagram and numerology can help you understand yourself and others. At this event, led by licensed Mental Health and Marriage and Family Therapist Katie Fields, PhD, you can explore your Enneagram type, the meaning of your birthdate and birth name and more. Use code WELLNESS10 to get 10% off your first class at Heart Mind Healing! Register here.
May 9 – 12
St. Augustine Food + Wine Festival 2024
Through Sunday, May 12
Various times
St. Augustine
The St. Augustine Food + Wine Festival 2024 is a culinary celebration that will showcase both local and celebrity guest chefs and winemakers. It offers a variety of events for everyone, from wine tasting to master classes. Click here to read more and view the full event schedule.
Mother’s Day Events
Check out all the Mother’s Day events happening in Gainesville!
Mother’s Day Transforming Grief Workshop
Sunday, May 12
2 – 4 p.m.
Heart Mind Healing
Mother’s Day can be a beautiful and also deeply sorrowful day. In this two-hour workshop, Transforming Grief Specialist Shanti Vani will share helpful ways to respond to grief and loss, explore different kinds of grief and discuss some of the taboos and misinformation around grief, trauma and loss. Register here and use code WELLNESS10 to get 10% off your first class at Heart Mind Healing!
GROW HUB Spring Pop Up Shops
Saturday, May 11
9 a.m – 3 p.m.
GROW HUB
Join GROW HUB on the second Saturday of March, April, and May for their Spring Pop-Up Shop series! The event is free, outdoors, and fun for all ages. Shop from local vendors and enjoy an amazing selection of plants and art. They will also have live music, food, and kids activities! Learn more.
Jazz on the Green at Celebration Pointe
Saturday, May 11
7 – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe Promenade
At Jazz on the Green, you can relax outside on a blanket and enjoy live music, food, drinks and more! Smooth Operatives will be performing on stage in the Promenade. Keep reading.
May 3 – 5
Toss for a Cure Cornhole Tournament
Saturday, May 4
Noon – 5 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
The Toss for a Cure Cornhole Tournament at the Tioga Town Center Amphitheater will benefit Chase the Cure and JDRF! You can sign up to compete and raise money. There is a competitive division and a recreational division. The competitive first place team will will $500, and the recreational first place team will win $250. Sign up and learn more here.
66th Annual Spring Parade of Homes ™
Saturday, May 4 –
Sunday, May 5
Noon – 5 p.m.
Homes in the Alachua County area
At the he 66th Annual Spring Parade of Homes ™, builders, developers and designers will be presenting the best the Alachua County area has to offer. If you are looking to buy a new home or looking for inspiration to upgrade your own home, this event is for you. Admission is free. Learn more.
Gainesville Oddities Market May: Day of the Dead Festival
Sunday, May 5
Noon – 5 p.m.
Bo Diddley Plaza
Celebrate Cinco De Mayo with a Day of the Dead festival! There will be live music, food trucks and 87 vendors showcasing and selling every oddity you can think of, including taxidermy, crystals, bugs, clothing and more. Admission and parking is free.
9th Annual Garden Show and Spring Festival
Saturday, May 4 –
Sunday, May 5
9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens
At the 9th Annual Garden Show and Spring Festival, enjoy live music and visit vendors from all over Florida who will be selling plants, crafts, food and more while experiencing the botanical gardens at a discounted admission price! Continue reading.
April 26 – 28
24th Annual Mary Wise Scramble for Pace
Friday, April 26
University of Florida Mark Bostick Golf Course
Help support and provide girls and young women a better future at the 24th Annual Mary Wise Golf Scramble for Pace. “For more than 35 years Pace has provided girls and young women a chance for a better future through education, counseling, training and advocacy,” according to the Pace Center website.
UF/IFAS Fang Fest at Amber Brooke Farms
Saturday, April 27
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Amber Brooke Farms Williston
Come learn about native Florida snakes and pick blueberries at Amber Brooke Farms! Fang Fest takes place during the Blueberry Festival, and admission is $15 total for entry to both events. This new event is designed teach visitors the skills and knowledge to live with Florida’s snakes and better appreciate them. There will be snake-related activities (for both kids and adults), wildlife exhibitors and all the other fun festivities that come with the Amber Brooke Farms Blueberry Festival! Read more.
Amber Brooke Farms Blueberry Festival
Saturday, April 27 –
Sunday, April 28
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Amber Brooke Farms
This is the last weekend of the Amber Brooke Farms Blueberry Festival! There will be blueberry u-pick, a blueberry pie eating contest, photo ops with the Blueberry Mascot, food items for purchase, a bubble barn, yard games, wagon rides and more. Plus, the archery range, gemstone mining, u-pick vegetables and u-pick sunflowers will be open. Find out more and purchase tickets here.
Spring GLAM Craft Show
Sunday, April 28
Noon – 5 p.m.
Cypress & Grove Brewing Co.
The Spring GLAM Craft Show offers a fresh shopping experience with local vendors that create unique, handmade items. Enjoy a day full of art, food and beer! Find out more here.
Tyler’s Hope for a Dystonia Cure Crawfish Boil
Saturday, April 27
8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Momentum Labs
Support Tyler’s Hope for a Dystonia Cure by attending this year’s crawfish boil! Enjoy all-you-can-eat Cajun style crawfish and gumbo, live music, a corn hole tournament, bounce houses and more! Click here for more information.
10th Annual Tree Fest
Saturday, April 27
Noon – 11 p.m.
Swamp Head Brewery
Join Solar Impact, Inc. and Swamp Head Brewery at the 10th Annual Tree Fest! Celebrate the environment by raising money to plant trees with the Alachua Conservation Trust. There will be food trucks, family-friendly activities, live music and Swamp Head beer. Four trees will be planted for the purchase of every beer and 20 trees for the purchase of every Tree Fest T-Shirt. Last year, 111,737 trees were planted! Read more.
April 18 – 21
GCM Food Fest
Thursday, April 18
5:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Celebration Pointe
The GCM Food Festival at Celebration Pointe will have food from some of the best restaurants, including Piesanos, Gigi’s Cup Cakes, Bleubird Wings & Chicken Co. and more! There will also be live music by Elio and games for the whole family. Read more.
Amber Brooke Farms Blueberry Festival
Saturday, April 20 –
Sunday, April 21
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Amber Brooke Farms
The Amber Brooke Farms Blueberry Festival is happening this weekend! There will be blueberry u-pick, a blueberry pie eating contest, photo ops with the Blueberry Mascot, food items for purchase, a bubble barn, yard games, wagon rides and more. Plus, the archery range, gemstone mining, u-pick vegetables and u-pick sunflowers will be open. Find out more and purchase tickets here.
The Water State Festival
Saturday, April 20
Noon – 6 p.m.
Depot Park
Come celebrate our Florida waters at the Water State Festival! At this free event, you can look at the latest paddle boards and kayaks, go shopping for outdoor gear, stop at food trucks, explore water science displays, meet live mermaids and more! You can also enjoy free entry at the Cade Museum for the water-inspired art show and science exhibits. This event benefit the Florida Springs Institute, a non-profit organization that protects our waters and springs through education and science. Find out more here.
Tioga’s Got Talent by 2nd Act Productions
Saturday, April 20
7 – 9 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
Do you want to see the talent Tioga has to offer? Come see the people in your community sing, dance, perform magic, do stand-up comedy, juggling, gymnastics and more! There will be two age divisions: the Junior Division (ages 8-17) and the Adult Division (ages 18+). Each division will have eight acts – no more than five minutes long each – and prizes from local businesses will be awarded after each division. This event is free! This event is hosted by 2nd Act Productions is a new, a local non-profit aiming to start a community theater in the Jonesville/Newberry area. Learn more.
WestFest Music Festival
Saturday, April 20
4 – 9 p.m.
Lois Forte Park
WestFest Music Festival is a fun, free family and community music festival! There will be live music, food trucks, kids activities and more. The musical talent includes: Logan Ryan Band, The Ben Carter Band, Houston Keen, Cam Wheaton. Bring your lawn chairs! Find out more here.
April 12 – 14
Blueberry, Veggie & Sunflower U-Pick at Amber Brooke Farms
Saturday, April 13 –
Sunday, April 14
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Amber Brooke Farms
Get ready for blueberry, sunflower and veggie u-pick at Amber Brooke Farms this weekend! In addition to u-pick, you can also shop for handcrafted products at the General Store, such as raw and unfiltered honey, hand made jams and jellies, coffee and more! Find out more here.
Looking for more places to visit this blueberry season? Click below to view local u-pick farms.
GROW HUB Spring Pop Up Shops
Saturday, April 13
9 a.m – 3 p.m.
GROW HUB
Join GROW HUB on the second Saturday of March, April, and May for their Spring Pop-Up Shop series! The event is free, outdoors, and fun for all ages. Shop from local vendors and enjoy an amazing selection of plants and art. They will also have live music, food, and kids activities! Learn more.
52nd Annual Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival
Saturday, April 13 –
Sunday, April 14
10 a.m – 4 p.m.
Santa Fe College
This historic Spring Arts Festival will be hosted at the main campus of Santa Fe college and highlight diverse regional and local visual artists, student performances and independent businesses. Click here to find out more.
Singing Bowl Meditation / Sound Bath
Friday, April 12
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Heart Mind Healing
Get comfortable, relax and let the vibrations of the singing bowls move through you. Feel free to bring your own meditation cushions and mats, or use the ones provided by the venue. Register here and use code WELLNESS10 to get 10% off your first class at Heart Mind Healing!
Jazz on the Green at Celebration Pointe
Saturday, April 13
7 – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe Promenade
At Jazz on the Green, you can relax outside on a blanket and enjoy live music, food, drinks and more! Smooth Operatives will be performing on stage in the Promenade. Keep reading.
Hoggtowne Bronze Concert: New Horizons
Sunday, April 14
4 – 6 p.m.
First Presbyterian Church of Gainesville
Come Watch the Hoggtowne Bronze Concert! Hoggtowne Bronze is the premiere handbell ensemble in North Central Florida. You can hear a variety of music performed by auditioned handbell ringers, including music from United States and Japanese composers. The show concert will end with Katy Perry’s “Firework.” Admission is Free! Learn more.
April 5 – 7
UF Bike Rodeo Safety and Health Fair
Saturday, April 6
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
UF Health Professional Park
At the 2024 UF Bike Rodeo Safety and Health Fair, UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, UFPD and other community partners will teach you how to help your child stay safe and healthy this summer. Kids can do a bicycle obstacle course, interactive games and other activities!
Gainesville Oddities Market
Sunday, April 7
Noon – 5 p.m.
Bo Diddley Plaza
Come to the first ever Gainesville Oddities Market! There will be over 70 vendors selling odd things such as bones, bugs, taxidermy, art, fashion, witchy items and more! There will also be live music on stage and food trucks. This event is free and family friendly! Read more.
One Decanting Evening: A Tasting Experience
Sunday, April 7
3 – 6 p.m.
Valley View
One Decanting Evening: A Tasting Experience supports the Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida. You will be able to taste and enjoy a variety of wines while raising money for families with critically ill children. This event will be filled with good wine, good food, and great company while supporting those in need. Click here for more information.
Old Florida Celebration of the Arts
Saturday, April 6 –
Sunday, April 7
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Historic 2nd Street
The Annual Spring Arts Festival in Cedar Key is a free fine arts and crafts festival! It has been named one of the Top Art Small Town Fairs in America, and welcomes only 100 artists and craftsmen. Proceeds from this event will go toward the Cedar Key Arts Center and local non-profits that serve homemade items and local seafood in beachfront City Park. Read more here.
Party for the Planet
Saturday, April 6
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
At Party for the Planet, you can explore the zoo and participate in fun activities such as animal encounters, games, crafts, training demonstrations, keeper talks and more! There will be food trucks. Tickets purchased on the day of the event. View full event schedule.
Gator Clot Trot
Saturday, April 6
8 a.m. – Noon
Santa Fe College
Come run the Gator Clot Trot 5K race to raise funds and awareness for bleeding disorders! Sign up here.
Annual Newberry Main Street Spring Festival
Saturday, April 6
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Newberry Historic District
Welcome spring at the annual Newberry Main Street Spring Festival! There will be food trucks, a live band, over 170 vendors, a family fun zone with two interactive kids’ shows, a petting zoo, face painting and more! Learn more.
Past Life Regression Workshop
Friday, April 5
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Newberry Historic District
At the Past Life Regression Workshop, you can gain access to vital lessons to either release or regain in this present lifetime with certified Hypnotherapist Jazmin Calderon-Marquez. Wear clothing that is comfortable for meditation; cushions and blankets will be provided or you may bring your own. Register here and use code WELLNESS10 to get 10% off your first class!
March 29 – 31
Dance Alive Champagne Gala
Saturday, March 30
5:30 – 11 p.m.
Legacy Park Multipurpose Center
Come to this fundraiser for dining, dancing, a silent auction, Dance Alive dancers and celebrity stars! Learn more about the Dance Alive Champagne Gala here.
Spring Outdoor Market
Saturday, March 30
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Williston Horseman’s Park
Say goodbye to winter and hello to warmer weather with the Spring Outdoor Market! There will be over 85+ vendors, food trucks and more. Click here to learn more.
Easter Brunch
Sunday, March 31
2 p.m.
Sweetwater Branch Inn
Come out to Sweetwater Branch Inn for a morning filled with delicious food, good company and Easter cheer! You can enjoy a spread of brunch favorites, take photos in the Victorian Garden and enjoy outside games like corn hole and giant Jenga. Learn more and purchase tickets.
March 21 – 24
Welcome Spring Group Meditation with Reiki Healing
Thursday, March 21
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Heart Mind Healing
Join Caitlyn for a powerful meditation to welcome Spring! Each participant will receive an individual Reiki healing from Caitlyn to clear what’s no longer serving and invite in the energy you are welcoming in as the seasons shift. Click here to register.
1st Annual Strawberry Festival at The Bryer Patch
Saturday, March 23
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Bryer Patch
The 1st Annual Strawberry Festival at The Bryer Patch will have a U-pick strawberry patch, wagon rides, U-pick flower patches, farm animal petting, photo ops, corn hole, live music, food vendors and more! Learn more here.
Annual Mid-Century Modern Home Tour
Saturday, March 23
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Gainesville Garden Club
The Annual Mid-Century Modern Home Tour showcases some of the best designed homes in Gainesville that were built from 1945 to 1975. There will also be food trucks, a swag shop and more! Click here for more information about the event and how to get tickets.
March 15 – 17
St. Patrick’s at First Magnitude
Saturday, March 16
7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
First Magnitude Brewing Company
Enjoy local beer and Irish Americana music Saturday night to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day weekend! Find out more here.
March Moo-dness at Critter Hills
Sunday, March 17
Noon – 4 p.m.
Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary Critter Hills location
At March Moo-dness at Critter Hills, you’ll be able to meet Seymour the water buffalo, Cinnamon the bison, buffalo babies, horses, donkeys and countless cows! You can also enjoy food from local plant-based vendors. This event is at Critter Hills, which is just up the street from Critter Creek. Learn more.
Fit2Run Green & Gold 5K
Sunday, March 17
10 a.m.
Fit2Run at Celebration Pointe
Wear green and gold to celebrate St. Patricks Day at this free fun run! Participants in this run will be entered into a drawing for the chance to win a free pair of shoes. Keep reading.
March 7 – 10
NHRA Gatornationals
Thursday, March 7 –
Sunday, March 10
Gainesville Raceway
Watch the drag racing series at the NHRA Gatornationals, a fun, family-friendly annual National Hot Rod Association event! There will be racing and more all weekend long. View the full schedule here.
GROW HUB Spring Pop Up Shops
Saturday, March 9
9 a.m – 3 p.m.
GROW HUB
Join GROW HUB on the second Saturday of March, April, and May for their Spring Pop-Up Shop series! The event is free, outdoors, and fun for all ages. Shop from local vendors and enjoy an amazing selection of plants and art. They will also have live music, food, and kids activities! Learn more.
Group Mediumship Session
Saturday, March 9
4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
Heart Mind Healing
Visit Heart Mind Healing for a heartwarming Group Mediumship Session where Alyssa the medium will connect with the spirit world, bringing messages of love and guidance. Experience the comfort of a supportive community, embrace the energy, share in the messages and leave with a sense of peace and connection. Space is limited. Register here and use code WELLNESS10 to get 10% off your first class!
Jazz on the Green at Celebration Pointe
Saturday, March 9
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe Promenade
At Jazz on the Green, you can relax outside on a blanket and enjoy live music, food, drinks and more! Smooth Operatives will be performing on stage in the Promenade. Keep reading.
March 1 – 3
Lyrics for Life: A Night of Making Music Matter
Saturday, March. 2
7 – 10 p.m.
Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Lyrics for Life: A Night of Making Music Matter is an intimate concert event in support of Stop Children’s Cancer, the Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation and other charities to help fight children’s cancer. There will also be a silent auction featuring items from the music industries biggest names. Keep reading to find out more.
Amber Brooke Farms Strawberry Festival
Saturday, March. 2 –
Sunday, March 3
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Amber Brooke Farms
At the third annual Amber Brooke Farms Strawberry Festival, there will be tons of strawberries to pick, strawberry-themed activities and treats, arts and crafts vendors, live music and food trucks! There will also be all of your favorite farm activities like the slide hill, bubble barn, barrel train and more! Keep reading.
Thornebrook Spring Arts Festival
Saturday, March 2 –
Sunday, March 3
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Shoppes At Thornebrook
The Thornebrook Spring Arts Festival will have vendors, live music and pieces from your favorite artists including paintings, sculptures, photography, glass works, wood carvings and more. Find out more here.
Dudley Farm: Plowing Up The Past
Friday, March 1 –
Saturday, March 2
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Dudley Farm Historic State Park
Come to Plowing Up The Past at Dudley Farm to see how fields are plowed for spring plantings, different types of field plows and antique tractors! You can also see different kinds of antique tractors that show life circa 1930 – 1940 and reflect of rural American history. Keep reading.
Millhopper Family Dentistry’s Care to Share Free Dental Day
Saturday, March 2
8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Millhopper Family Dentistry
Millhopper Family Dentistry is offering free smiles to anyone who needs dental work with this event! The first 100 people will receive dental work – patients in need of a filling, extraction, or cleaning – to help those in need of emergency care. This event is first come first served, so arrive early. Find out more.
Feb. 23 – 25
Heartwood Music Festival
Friday, Feb. 23 –
Sunday, Feb 25
Friday 4 – 9 p.m.
Saturday Noon – 11 p.m.
Sunday Noon – 10 p.m.
Heartwood Soundstage
This weekend is the Heartwood Music Festival! This is the city’s annual celebration of original local music and art. Come out and enjoy some live music from local talent. Also, students with a valid student ID can get into the festival for free this year! Click here to read more and view the lineup.
10th Annual Pints and Predators at First Magnitude Brewing Co.
Saturday, Feb. 24
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
First Magnitude Brewing Co.
Join us for the 10th Annual Pints and Predators at First Magnitude Brewing Co.! Your local wildlife rehabilitation community – Sunrise Wildlife Rehabilitation, Lubee Bat Conservancy and many more – will be at this educational festival and fundraiser with live birds of prey, creatures of the night and more! Find out more here.
North Florida Outdoor Expo
Saturday, Feb. 24
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center
UF/IFAS is hosting the North Florida Outdoor Expo! This is a fun event for families of outdoor enthusiasts like hunters, fishermen, hikers and more. Keep reading.
Spring Job Fair at the Library
Friday, Feb. 23
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Headquarters Library
If you’re in search of a new career, this event is for you! At the Spring Job Fair at the Library, you can talk directly with potential employers, ask questions, get information, and share your resume. Learn more.
Created Gainesville: Life Reclaimed – All Things New
Saturday, Feb. 24
6:30 – 9 p.m.
1908 Grand
Created Gainesville, a nonprofit organization committed to reaching and restoring lives impacted by human trafficking and sexploitation since its establishment in 2012, is hosting its 6th annual fundraising event, “Life Reclaimed – All Things New.” You can help restore lives, families, relationships, communities, and more by attending this event. Read more here.
Sunny’s Pre-School Open House
Friday, Feb. 23
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Sun Country Sports Center
Come out to Sunny’s Pre-school Open House! This pre-school is dedicated to fostering a love for learning in your little ones. At the event, you can explore our vibrant classrooms, meet the passionate educators and discover the engaging curriculum designed to nurture both academic, physical and social development.
Feb. 16 – 18
16th Annual Fiddler Crab Festival
Friday, Feb. 16 –
Sunday, Feb 18
6 – 11 p.m.
Fiddler’s Restaurant and Resort
At the 16th annual Fiddler Crab Festival, there will be over 300 vendors, food, live rock and country music, fireworks, family fun and fiddler crab races! Admission is $5, and people of all ages are welcome. Click here for more information.
Ranger-Led Tour at Devil’s Millhopper
Saturday, Feb. 17
10 – 11 a.m.
Devils Millhopper Geological State Park
Get outside and explore this Saturday morning! Learn about Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park on this ranger-led tour occurring every Saturday at 10 a.m. Read more.
Depot Park Parkrun
Saturday, Feb. 17
7:30 – 10 a.m.
Depot Park
Every Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m., you can go to Depot Park for the Depot Park Parkrun! It is a free, weekly, timed 5K open to everyone! You can run or walk, depending on what you prefer. Parkrun is a global movement to encourage people to enjoy an active lifestyle. First-time runners must register one time at parkrun.us/register and bring the emailed barcode with them to the event. Find out more here.
Feb. 9 -11
Miles for Meridian
Saturday, Feb. 10
8 a.m.
Tioga Town Center
The 5th annual Miles for Meridian is a chocolate-themed 5k walk/run/roll to raise awareness for those affected by mental illness. All proceeds will benefit Meridian Behavioral Healthcare, Inc. Their mission is to “promote the health, recovery, and well-being of those affected by mental illnesses and substance use disorders through prevention, coordinated treatment, and supportive services.” Find out more here.
A Farm Valentine with Chef Charlie Keller of Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille
Saturday, Feb. 10
3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Swallowtail Farm
Enjoy an early Valentine’s dinner with your loved one at A Farm Valentine with Chef Charlie Keller of Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille! You and your sweetheart can dine on a meal made with fresh farm ingredients, sip on cocktails and devour a delicious dessert. Read more.
Jazz on the Green at Celebration Pointe
Saturday, Feb. 10
7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe Promenade
At Jazz on the Green, you can relax outside on a blanket and enjoy live music, food, drinks and more! Joe Breidenstine Quintet will be performing on stage in the Promenade. Keep reading.
Awaken Your Magic with Guided Imagery
Sunday, Feb. 11
10 a.m. – Noon
Heart Mind Healing
Go on a journey of self-exploration and unlock the hidden reservoirs of your potential through the gentle and safe power of hypnosis in this class led by Certified Hypnotherapist Jazmin Calderon-Marquez. No experience necessary. Dress comfortably and bring a journal! Find out more and register.
Embrace Tranquility: An Introduction to Yoga Nidra
Sunday, Feb. 11
2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Heart Mind Healing
Discover the ancient practice of Yoga Nidra, a technique promoting relaxation, emotional healing, and rest. Learn how to access the healing power of your own body and mind, release stress and improve your well-being. Find out more and register.
Dance Alive National Ballet presents Love in the Swamp
Saturday, Feb. 10
7:30 p.m.
Phillips Center
Dance Alive National Ballet is putting on an amazing show all about love in time for Valentine’s Day!
Feb. 2 – 4
First Annual Blues and BBQ Festival
Saturday, Feb. 3
9 a.m.
Newberry Historic District
At the first annual Blues and BBQ Festival, enjoy a BBQ competition with cash prizes, a car and truck show, live music from local blues groups, vendors and a family fun zone! Find out more here.
17th Annual Souper Fun Sunday
Sunday, Feb. 4
1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Saint Francis Catholic Academy
For 17 years, Souper Fun Sunday has been Gainesville’s premier soup tasting competition. This delicious event will feature soups from nearly 30 local restaurants and caterers. Local celebrity judges will determine the Judges Choice winners in the Seafood, Non-Seafood and Vegetarian categories. The almost 600 people in attendance will cast their vote in each category to determine the People’s Choice winners as well as Best Table Display. Read more.
Personal Acupressure for Restorative Health
Saturday, Feb. 3
4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Heart Mind Healing
With Personal Acupressure for Restorative Health, come play with valuable, easy-to-use self-care tools that can empower your innate ability to heal physically, mentally, and spiritually. As an acupressure therapist, Cristina Eury of Ancient Flow Therapy serves those seeking holistic support to optimize health while lowering stress, pain, and healing time. Learn how to transform your daily physical health and emotional well-being for a more balanced, grounded, and energized life. Register and read more here.
Annual Springs Run 7.2K
Saturday, Feb. 3
11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
First Magnitude Brewing Co.
Participate in the annual Springs Run 7.2K and enjoy drinks, music and more afterward! All profits will benefit the Florida Springs Institute. Find out more.
Race for Rehab: Color Run 5k
Saturday, Feb. 3
8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Flavet Field
The Race for Rehab: Color Run 5k benefits the UF Department of Physical Therapy community outreach programs including Equal Access Clinic, Children on the Go and more. Keep reading here.
Jan. 26 – 28
Amber Brooke Farms Sip & Savor
Saturday, Jan. 27 and Sunday, Jan. 28
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Amber Brooke Farms
At Amber Brooke Farms Sip & Savor, the whole family can have some fun! There will be food trucks, wine and beer. There will also be live music, happy hour with half-priced drinks and strawberry u-pick! Other activities include archery (admission sold separately), gemstone mining (admission sold separately), a bubble barn, face painting, corn hole, a barrel train, playgrounds, family tug-o-war and more! See more.
37th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire
Saturday, Jan. 27 and Sunday, Jan. 28
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Depot Park
The magical 37th annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire will come to life as Hoggetowne goes Downtown to Depot Park! It will include beloved highlights such as artisans, craftspeople, olde world demonstrations, stage combat, medieval music and dancing. At the marketplace, you can find one-of-a-kind blacksmithing, jewelry, hand-blown glassware, leather crafts, period fashions and more. There will also be a food court with blooming onions, sweet potato fries, succulent ribs, giant turkey legs and more! Learn more.
Bats & Brews 2024
Saturday, Jan. 27
Noon – 4 p.m.
Swamp Head Brewery
At Bats & Brews, meet some of the bats from Lubee Bat Conservancy and learn about how our ecosystems benefit from these misunderstood mammals. Swamp Head is brewing Sky Puppies Beer specially for this event. $1 from each Sky Puppies purchase will go toward Lubee. Admission is free! Read more here.
The Original Gainesville Food Truck Rally
Saturday, Jan. 27
4 p.m.
High Dive
At the Original Gainesville Food Truck Rally, enjoy unique food and a free concert with local music! Food trucks include Mexi Cocina, Monsta Lobsta, Southern Taste Mobile Kitchen and more. Free music inside the High Dive begins at 4:30 p.m., and local bands Sigs Inside, Monk-E and Stick Around will be performing! This event benefits Habitat for Humanity. Find out more.
Gainesville Record Fair
Sunday, Jan. 28
Noon – 5 p.m.
Cypress & Grove Brewing Co.
The Gainesville Record Fair will have live DJs, food trucks and over 25 vendor tables with vinyl records, CDs, tapes, posters, collectibles, music merchandise and more! There will also be games and locally crafted beer. Admission is free. Read more.
Ye Olde Parkrunne (Free 5K)
Saturday, Jan. 27
7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m.
Depot Park
Come out to Depot Park for Ye Olde Parkrunne, a free 5K at Depot Park! Get in the spirit and kick off the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire by dressing in medieval clothing! There will be chess to play along the course of the run. This parkrun is part of the free Depot Park 5k parkrun series that takes place every Saturday morning. Register at parkrun.us/register. Learn more here.
