Are you in search of fun for your kiddos – or yourself – this weekend in Gainesville? If so, we have you covered! Here are some of the best events in Gainesville for you and your family.
Looking for more fun in the future? Check back here every week for the best upcoming events. Or view 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.
Annual Stop The Violence Back To School Rally
Saturday, July 27
9 a.m. – Noon
Santa Fe College Gym
The 25th Annual Stop The Violence Back To School Rally is hosted by P.A.V.E. (People Against Violence Enterprises, Inc.), 8th Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office and the Children’s Trust of Alachua County. This event will be giving away 5,000 free backpacks filled with school supplies! There will also be a keynote speaker. View event.
July 19 – 21
Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza
Friday, July 19
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 jazz and swing music by the Gainesville Big Band. Read more.
UF/IFAS Family Fishing Day
Saturday, July 20
8 a.m – Noon
UF/IFAS Family Fishing Day Location: 7922 NW 71st St, Gainesville
Enjoy one of the monthly UF/IFAS Family Fishing Days this weekend! Learn more and view the full Family Fishing Day schedule here.
Amvets Post 88 Ladies auxiliary Back to School Jamboree
Saturday, July 20
11 a.m – 2 p.m.
Amvets Post 88
At this jamboree, there will be street tacos, a BBQ food truck, carnival games for kids – including a dunk tank – and prizes! They will also be giving away free backpacks. Learn more.
July 12 – 14
Summer Farm Fest at Haile Farmers Market
Saturday, July 13
8:30 a.m. – Noon
Haile Plantation
Head out to Haile to enjoy fresh, local produce, meats, honey, oils and more! At this event, you can enjoy extra vendors, crafts and a kids’ corner! Haile Farmers Market has been connecting farmers and the community since 1998. Find out 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.
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 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.
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.
Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza
Friday, July 5
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 music by the band Pet Detectives. Read more.
The Home Depot Kids Workshops
Saturday, July 6
9 – 10:30 p.m.
The Home Depot
At The Home Depot Kids Workshops, join Home Depot staff to learn to create different crafts! This month, you can build a mini soccer game toy. Find out more.
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.
Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza
Friday, June 21
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 music by The Interwaves, PT and Cassette. Read more.
First Annual School’s Out Block Party
Saturday, June 22
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
NW 1st Street
The Early Learning Coalition of Alachua County, Mermaid Knick Knack’s and Charlie’s Snow Shack are hosting a School’s Out Block Party! From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., there will be food trucks, giveaways, vendors, games, activities and more. Continue 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 1st 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.
UF/IFAS Father’s Day Family Fishing Day
Saturday, June 15
8 a.m – Noon
UF/IFAS Family Fishing Day Location: 7922 NW 71st St, Gainesville
Enjoy one of the monthly UF/IFAS Family Fishing Days for Father’s Day weekend! Learn more and view the full Family Fishing Day schedule here.
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.
Kanapaha Gardens Father’s Day Special
Sunday, June 16
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
4th Ave Food Park
Visit 4th Ave Food Park for the final Kids Day of the summer! There will be bubbles, Lulu’s gelato, balloon animals, live music, face painting, marionettes and more to keep your little ones entertained. You can also enjoy a Father’s Day lunch from one of the vendors! See more.
June 7 – 9
New Worlds Reading Expedition
Friday, June 7
4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
St. Anne Early Learning Center
Join the New Worlds Reading Initiative and the Early Learning Coalition of Alachua County for an afternoon of free fun, food, and reading activities as we kick off the summer! This event will include reading aloud, workshops for parents, reading activities, games, prizes free resources and more. Continue reading.
Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza
Friday, June 7
7 – 9 p.m.
Bo Diddley Plaza
Every Friday through August, go see amazing free music at Bo Diddley Plaza with the Free Fridays Concert Series! This week, enjoy contemporary jazz music by the band Mindwalk. Read more.
Feed the Horses at Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses
Friday, June 7
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Mill Creek Farm
Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses is open to the public on Saturdays and allows visitors to feed the retired horses! Admission is 2 carrots, but the more the merrier. Learn more.
May 31 – June 2
Tioga Movie Night: Free Willy
Friday, May 31
7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
At this Tioga Movie Night, bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy the movie “Free Willy” to kick off summer vacation! Learn more.
Chiefland Watermelon Festival
Saturday, June 1
8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
23 SE 2nd Avenue, Chiefland
Come out to the 70th annual watermelon festival in Chiefland! At the Chiefland Watermelon Festival, you can eat free sliced watermelon, listen to music, enjoy a parade at 11 a.m. and explore different vendors! Find out more here.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Memorial Day Events
Wondering what to do for Memorial Day Weekend? Find out what events are happening in the Gainesville area.
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.
Haile Farmers Market
Saturday, May 25
8:30 a.m. – Noon
Haile Plantation
Head out to Haile to enjoy fresh, local produce, meats, honey, oils and more! Haile Farmers Market has been connecting farmers and the community since 1998.
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.
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.
Tu Fiesta Radio Presents Elio Piedra
Friday, May 17
7 – 10 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
Enjoy music by Elio Piedra at the Tioga Town Center! You can also grab dinner at a local restaurant during the show. Find out more 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!
FAFO’s Symphony Under the Stars
Sunday, May 12
3 – 9 p.m.
Ocala Golf Club
FAFO’s Symphony Under the Stars is happening on Mother’s Day! Bring food and drinks and watch a performance by the Ocala Symphony Orchestra followed by a Fireworks display. Keep reading.
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.
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.
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.
May the Fourth Be With You Tioga Movie Night
Saturday, May 4
7:30 – 10 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
Come out to the May the Fourth Be With You Tioga Movie Night: Star Wars The Force Awakens! Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy this sci-fi flick to celebrate May 4! Learn more.
April 25 – 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.
Harlem Globetrotters 2024 World Tour – Presented By Jersey Mike’s Subs
Thursday, April 25
7 – 9 p.m.
Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center
Don’t miss your chance to be a part of the world-famous Harlem Globetrotters global tour as they take the court! See the Globetrotter stars dribble, spin, slam and dunk against their rivals, the Washington Generals. There will also be opportunities for pre-game, post-game and in-game fan engagement. Learn more and buy tickets here.
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.
April Tioga Movie Night: Toy Story
Friday, April 26
7:30 – 9 p.m.
Tioga Town Center
Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy April’s Tioga Movie Night, which will feature Toy Story! Read more here.
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.
Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale
Saturday, April 20 –
Wednesday, April 24
9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Saturday)
Noon – 6 p.m. (Sunday – Wednesday)
The Friends of the Library
The Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale will have more than just books! There will be art, comic books, manga, CDs, DVDs, vinyl, records and more. All proceeds will go toward the Alachua County Library District and area literacy projects. B.Y.O.B – bring your own bags or boxes! Read more.
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.
Sun Country Dance Theater’s 16th Annual Spring Concert
Saturday, April 20
2:30 – 5 p.m.
Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
Sun Country Dance Theatre (SCDT) is presenting its 16th Annual Spring Youth Concert, featuring their original story ballet, “Little Red Riding Hood.” This ballet was adapted from the fairy tale and follows Little Red throughout many adventures on her birthday. The performance also will showcase the SCDT dancers performing an array of new works by both resident and guest choreographers, including styles from classical ballet to contemporary and modern dance. Purchase tickets 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.
Rooterville 20th Anniversary Celebration
Saturday, April 13
5 – 8 p.m.
Rooterville Animal Sanctuary
Come out to the Rooterville 20th Anniversary Celebration! There will be live music, wine tasting, a silent auction, food and spirits! The sanctuary will also be open for you to see all the animals. Keep reading!
Swallowtail Farm’s Spring Brunch – Alpin Farm Dining Experience
Sunday, April 14
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Swallowtail Farm
Enjoy a brunch with Alpin Bistro! This French twist on brunch will feature classic and new treats you can enjoy in the mossy oak hammocks. Find out more here.
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.
UF/IFAS Family Fishing Day and Easter Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 13
8 a.m – Noon
UF/IFAS Family Fishing Day Location: 7922 NW 71st St, Gainesville
Enjoy one of the monthly UF/IFAS Family Fishing Days and a belated Easter egg hunt! Learn more and view the full Family Fishing Day schedule.
April 5 – 7
There are many events happening this weekend! View the ones below and more here.
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!
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.
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.
Free Movie on the Lawn: Downtown Newberry – THE LORAX
Friday, April 5
7:30 – 9 p.m.
Newberry Municipal
Come to Downtown Newberry for a free movie! “The Lorax” movie will begin at sundown at Barry Park next to the Newberry Municipal Building. Bring your blankets and chairs, and feel free to grab a bite to eat from a restaurant or shop along Main Street before the movie! Learn more.
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.
Archers for Autism Fun Shoot
Saturday, April 6
8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Gator Bowmen Archery Range
The Gator Bowmen Archery Club is hosting the first annual Archers for Autism Fun Shoot to benefit the University of Florida Center for Autism and Related Disabilities! There will be fun shoots, a silent auction, food, prizes, t-shirts and more. Keep reading.
Celebrate Florida College Decision Day
Friday, April 5
7 – 9 p.m.
Celebration Pointe
The Greater Gainesville Chamber Foundation and Alachua County Public Schools invites you to celebrate Florida College Decision Day with your kids! Students, along with their families and friends, are invited to celebrate the academic achievements of the 2024 graduating seniors at Celebration Pointe on the stage in the Promenade.
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.
March 29 – 31
ERAS TOUR: School’s Out iDance Party- 3/29 Day Camp!
Saturday, March 30
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Williston Horseman’s Park
If your child loves Taylor Swift, this event is for them! They can learn choreography from the Eras tour, make friendship bracelets, participate in a cookie decorating contest, enjoy some pizza and more! This event is for ages 5 and up. Register here.
Easter Egg Hunts and Events!
Easter is this weekend! Check out our Easter event guide to see what events are happening this weekend.
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.
ON YOUR FEET! The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan
Saturday, March 30
7:30 – 9 p.m.
Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts
ON YOUR FEET! is the inspiring true story about heart, heritage and two people who believe in their talent — and each other — to become an international sensation: Gloria and Emilio Estefan. Come see this story in musical form! Learn more here.
March 21 – 24
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.
Stomp the Swamp for Autism
Saturday, March 23
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Come out to Gate 7 at the Ben Hill Griffin Stadium for the 15th Annual Stomp the Swamp for Autism! Individuals with autism or a related disability, their families, community members and more can walk or run the stadium steps or laps around the stadium to raise funds for the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD). Keep reading.
Gator Fly In and Armed Services Appreciation Day
Saturday, March 23
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Gainesville Regional Airport
At Gator Fly In and Armed Services Appreciation Day, you can honor the armed services! This free event will have airplane and helicopter rides as well as vendors, music, classic cars, food trucks and a kids corner. Learn more here.
“Get AFTER IT” Performance Day & Grand American Launch Party
Saturday, March 23
11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Gainesville Harley-Davidson
Bring your kids to the “Get AFTER IT” Performance Day & Grand American Launch Party for a day full of fun! You can watch the “WHEELIE WIZARD” do his magic, experience a live motorcycle stunt show, enjoy refreshments and more. Click here to view more information.
March 15 – 17
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.
Gainesville Community Band St. Patrick’s Day Concert
Friday, March 15
7 p.m.
St. Patrick’s Catholic Church
Enjoy music by the Gainesville Community Band to celebrate St.Patrick’s Day! This concert takes place at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, located at 500 NE 16th Ave. Find out more here.
Cade Museum Maker Workshop Series
Saturday, March 16
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cade Museum
Visit the Cade Museum every Saturday for its Maker Workshop Series! This is an innovative program for kids ages 9 and up to participate in hands-on “maker sessions” to build and create using different materials, electronics and coding platforms. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Read more.
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.
Buchholz Players present The Three Musketeers
Thursday, March 7 –
Saturday, March 9
7 p.m
Buchholz High School
En Garde! Buchholz Players present The Three Musketeers featuring lavish sword fights and sweeping romance. This adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel evokes a time where honor and love ruled all. Online tickets are $10 general admission, $8 students/seniors, and at the door tickets are $12 general admission, $10 students/seniors. Learn more.
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.
11th Shakespeare Festival at Millhopper Montessori School (MMS)
Friday, March 1
1:30 – 5 p.m.
Abundant Grace Stage
Millhopper Montessori School (MMS) middle school students will present re-written scenes from Twelfth Night at our biennial Shakespeare Festival. The following scenes will be performed, according to the MMS media release:
Act I Scene 2, and Scene 3 (performed by the 8th graders), act I, Scene 4, and Scene 5 (performed by the 6th graders) and act III, Scene 4 (performed by the 7th graders)
Find out more here.
Free Movie in Barry Park
Friday, March 1
6:30 p.m.
The field next to the Newberry Municipal building
Come out for a free movie in Barry Park located next to the Newberry Municipal building! Disney’s Brave will be playing, and there will also be free activities for your children sponsored by local Newberry Businesses and the Newberry Area Chamber of Commerce. Learn more.
Clay County Fairgrounds 8th Annual Strawberry Fest
Saturday, March 2 –
Sunday, March 3
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Clay County Fairgrounds
The 8th Annual Strawberry Fest at the Clay County Fairgrounds in Green Cove Springs is fun for the whole family! There will be Plant City strawberries, arts and crafts, food, bounce houses, live entertainment, pony rides, face painting, a petting farm, games and more! Keep reading.
Buchholz Players present The Three Musketeers
Friday, March 1 –
Sunday, March 3
Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m.
Sunday at 2 p.m.
Buchholz High School
En Garde! Buchholz Players present The Three Musketeers featuring lavish sword fights and sweeping romance. This adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’ classic novel evokes a time where honor and love ruled all. Online tickets are $10 general admission, $8 students/seniors, and at the door tickets are $12 general admission, $10 students/seniors. Learn more.
Feb. 23 – 25
Amber Brooke Farms Strawberry Festival
Saturday, Feb. 24 –
Sunday, Feb. 25
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.
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.
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. Learn more.
4th Annual Strawberry Fest at Suwannee County Fairgrounds
Saturday, Feb. 24 –
Sunday, Feb. 25
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Suwannee County Fairgrounds
The fourth annual Strawberry Fest at Suwannee County Fairgrounds is fun for the whole family! There will be Plant City strawberries, bounce houses, strawberry shortcake, live entertainment, face painting, a pie eating content, an axe throwing tournament and more! Learn more.
Looking for more strawberry picking?
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.
Feb. 16 – 18
Anthropologie Community Pop-Up Market Celebrating Black History
Saturday, Feb. 17
Noon – 4 p.m.
Anthropologie at 2850 SW 35th Dr
Celebrate Black History and support and shop local black-owned businesses at Anthropologie’s Community Pop-Up Market! The local vendors include Sugar Baby’s Cookies, Diasporic Pigments, My Soulful Intentions, local author Danisha Huntley, Jayda’s Jam and more! You can also chat with members of The Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center to learn about the history and culture of African-derived cultures, highlighting those in Gainesville and North Central Florida and the African American music legacy. Keep reading here.
LifeSouth 5K & Party in the Plaza
Saturday, Feb. 17
9 a.m. – Noon
Bo Diddley Plaza
The LifeSouth Race is an initiative of the LifeSouth Community Foundation, which educates K-12 students about the need for blood donation. This event will begin with the 5k, which will start downtown and take you through the Bed and Breakfast district, on to Hawthorne trail and back downtown. Then, the Party in the Plaza will take place where there will be booths from local vendors, live entertainment, food and drinks. Find out more!
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.
Celebrate Lunar New Year as a Family!
Saturday, Feb. 10
Lunar New Year is this weekend! Take time to celebrate the year of the dragon as a family, even if you’ve never celebrated before.
UF/IFAS Family Day at the Dairy Farm
Saturday, Feb. 10
9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
UF/IFAS Dairy Unit
Come out to the eighth annual UF IFAS Family Day at the Dairy Farm at the UF Dairy Unit! This open house is an educational event for both children and adults, and you will get to see a real working dairy farm and learn about dairy farming practices! Keep reading.
Go strawberry picking!
All month
It’s strawberry season! Strawberry picking is an opportunity to get outside, enjoy the weather and have fun with your whole family.
Brushes and Brunch
Sunday, Feb. 11
Brunch starts at 10 a.m.
Class starts at 10:30 a.m.
Langan Acres
At Brushes and Brunch, Langan Acres and Corks and Colors Studio will host an early Valentine’s Day painting class and brunch! Painting supplies, instruction and brunch are included with event ticket. Find out more.
Gal-entine’s Hat Making Class
Sunday, Feb. 11
Brunch starts at 2:30 p.m.
Class starts at 3 p.m.
Langan Acres
Enjoy a hat making class at Langan Acres for Galentine’s Day! Your ticket includes hat-making instruction, your choice of felt hat, decorative supplies and a charcuterie board. Learn more.
Falling in Love with Reading
Saturday, Feb. 10
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Abiding Savior Lutheran Church
This event will make you fall head over heels for reading for Valentine’s Day! It help you and your child bond through reading. There will be book giveaways, fun and interactive reading activities for kids, parent tips on how to encourage reading at home and free literacy growth resources. Learn more here.
Girls Do Science 2024
Saturday, Feb. 10
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Abiding Savior Lutheran Church
At Girls Do Science 2024, celebrate International Women and Girls in Science Day with activities, experiments and conversations with scientists! This free event aims to further achieve gender equality and encourage women in science. Read more.
Brick City Anime Festival
Saturday, Feb. 10 –
Sunday, Feb. 11
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
World Equestrian Center
At Brick City Anime Festival, meet voice actors from your favorite Japanese animated shows. Kids 10 and under get in for free! Learn more here.
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.
Cade Museum Tinker Workshop Series
Saturday, Feb. 3
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cade Museum
Visit the Cade Museum every Saturday for its Tinker Workshop Series! This is an innovative program for kids ages 9 and up to participate in hands-on “maker sessions” to build and create using different materials, electronics and coding platforms. Children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Read more.
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.
Frogs and Friends Fridays
Friday, Feb. 2
2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Morningside Nature Center
Frogs and Friends Fridays is a free event is held at 2 p.m. the first Friday of each month! At the outdoor screened pavilion at Morningside Nature Center, you and your child can learn about amphibians and reptiles! 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.
Sunshine State Book Festival
Friday, Jan. 26 and Saturday, Jan. 27
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Hilton University of Florida Conference Center
Browse books and mingle with fellow book-lovers at the Sunshine State Book Festival! There will also be an opportunity to meet some of the 200 regional and local authors at the festival and get your books autographed. On Saturday, there will be a kids story time from noon until 4 p.m.! Find out more here.