We are proud to live in this mindful, resourceful and resilient community, and to share with you all that we have to offer – What’s Good.
Wear your mask and stay at safe physical distances while you enjoy the most of each day. Please adhere to public safety guidelines to reduce the spread of COVID-19.
Be safe and be well,– Your partners at Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
The below information was accurate at the time of publishing. Due to the current fluctuating environment, please contact organizers directly to double-check details.
Safety First. Be Informed About COVID19
In Alachua County, certain types of businesses require masks. Masks or face coverings are also required when social distancing is not possible. For additional details on the requirement as well as any exemption information please read the latest Alachua County Emergency Order.
For additional Coronavirus (COVID-19) information, visit the Alachua County COVID19 Community Resource Portal, the Alachua County Facebook page, call the Coronavirus Information Line at 866-779-6121, visit the Florida Department of Health website, and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
It’s All for You. Rock Your Roadster with Hometown Hitmakers Sister Hazel Live at the Drive-In Concert Series
Friday, October 23, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. | The Post Farm
28957 W Newberry Rd., Newberry, FL 32669
Calling all “Hazelnuts!” Join platinum recording artists Sister Hazel as they share their uplifting music and positive vibes at their first outdoor drive-in concert performance in Alachua County at The Post Farm in Newberry. The drive-in format is part of a current national trend that allows you to enjoy the concert from your own designated parking spot with a view of the stage. The evening opens with country singer/songwriter Joe Bachman. Coolers are permitted and food trucks are onsite. Find tickets, event information and safety protocols here.
Celebrate Tom Petty’s 70th Birthday with a Star-Studded Virtual Festival Honoring His Life and Musical Legacy
Friday, October 23, 4:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. | Online Event with the Tom Petty Estate
Donations on TomPetty.com support Save Our Stages (NIVA), UF Arts in Medicine, Digitunity and MusiCares
For the first time ever, the Petty estate is working alongside fans and engaging with the music community to celebrate and pay tribute to Tom Petty. In 2017, Jason and Sarah Hedges created the first annual Tom Petty Birthday Bash in Tom Petty’s hometown of Gainesville, FL. Fans gathered for the free, six-hour show of all Petty tunes, performed in the legendary musician’s honor. The celebration has grown into a fully-fledged music festival featuring local as well as national acts, with fans traveling across the country to celebrate the life and legacy of Tom Petty.
Due to the ongoing pandemic, this year’s special Tom Petty Birthday Bash, honoring what would have been his 70th birthday, is a virtual event with 5 hours of performances, testimonials and tributes from friends and fans including Stevie Nicks, Chris Stapleton, Post Malone, Foo Fighters, The Killers, Norah Jones, The Raconteurs, Jason Isbell, a very special performance by Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench and many more. Hear an audio broadcast on SiriusXM at 4:30 p.m. featuring Jason and Sarah Hedges, with local and emerging artists covering deep cuts curated by the duo. At 7 p.m. the online concert event goes live on Amazon Music’s Twitch Channel and TomPetty.com
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Plan Your Visit to Gainesville and Alachua County without Leaving Your Best Friend Behind
Plan your visit to Gainesville and Alachua County without leaving your pup behind. Hotels and lodging providers are happy to welcome your pet. Bring your furry friend with you to explore the outdoors and grab a bite at pet-friendly local restaurants. A getaway just would not be the same without your companion. Click here and learn more about pet-friendly Gainesville and Alachua County, FL.
Relive the Iconic Music of Journey and Styx with Majesty of Rock
Saturday, October 24, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Legacy Park Amphitheater
15400 Peggy Rd., Alachua, FL 32615
Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and get ready to ROCK. There is plenty of room for everyone to spread out and be safe and comfortable.
Majesty of Rock is a mega talented group of musicians who banded together to faithfully recreate the sound and feel of the two super groups: Journey and Styx. Fronted by the masterful voice of John D’Agostino, this band also boasts the talents of four exceptional artists who not only capture every nuance of Journey in their iconic Steve Perry days, but also the vocal essence of Dennis DeYoung and Tommy Shaw of Styx.
Groove to Old School R&B with Little Jake Mitchell and the Soul Searchers at Playlist at the Pointe
Friday, October 23, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Celebration Pointe
4949 Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
Little Jake Mitchell, known as “Mr. Excitement” was UF’s first African-American musical artist at Gator Growl in 1960. His musical accolades include performances with icons like James Brown. Band members include Tran “The Piano Man” Whitley and drummer, Hal “Halag8r” Saylor, a strolling horn section and the full-time emcee/announcer, Kenny “The Conductor” Eunice. Pull up a chair or throw down a blanket and enjoy the music as the sun sets. Food and beverages are available from Celebration Pointe restaurants.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with Special Hair-Raising Release of Candy-Flavored Craft Beers To-Go
Saturday October 24, 12 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Swamp Head Brewery3650 SW 42nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
Cruise by Swamp Head Brewery for an annual Halloween celebration featuring candy-inspired beers, available for one very spine-chilling night. Choose from a variety of eight candy beers starting at 12 p.m. on Saturday. Order online here and pick up by 8 p.m.
Find Your Perfect Prickly Companion at the Outdoor Plant Pop-Up Sale
Saturday, October 24, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. | The AUK Market
2031 NW 6th St., Gainesville, FL 32609
Stop in and find yourself some new plant friends. Saturday’s plant sale takes place in the outdoor courtyard next to The Auk Market and Curia on the Drag. All social distancing precautions will be in place and masks are required. Featured plants include cactus cuttings by the foot, handmade kokedama (decorative moss-covered balls of soil) and an array of tropical & desert plants.
Dress Like a Star and Celebrate Moon to Mars at the Cade Museum
Sunday, October 25, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. | Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
811 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
The last Sunday of every month features fun themes at the Cade Museum. Sunday’s theme is “Be A Star.” Dress up like a star for discounted admission. Whether it’s a celestial star like Polaris or Betelgeuse, or a glamourous celebrity. It’s up to your imagination.
Score a Record Haul of Exclusive Vinyl Music at Record Store Day
Saturday, October 24, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Hear Again Records
210 SE 1st St. Suite 105, Gainesville, FL 32601
RRecord Store Day is a big deal for music collectors and fans of vinyl records. In 2020 , releases have been split across 3 dates August – October, view the RSD release schedule here. For a safe buying experience, only a few shoppers are allowed in the store at a time. Masks, sanitized hands and gloves are required to enter the store. Plan ahead for your Record Store Day haul and view more details on the Facebook event page.
Reflect on the Historic Meeting Between Chinua Achebe and James Baldwin at UF 40 Years Ago at Interrogate & Commemorate
Thursday, October 22 – Friday, October 23 | Online Event with the Center for African American Studies at the University of Florida
In April 1980 renowned African writer Chinua Achebe and African American literary giant James Baldwin met for the first time in Gainesville, Florida. The occasion was the African Literature Association conference devoted to the African Aesthetic.
On the 40th anniversary of Baldwin and Achebe’s historic encounter at the University of Florida, this two-day event invites return and reflection, featuring distinguished guest speaker Alachua County poet laureate E. Stanley Richardson. The first day probes the experiential archive through oral history, memoir, and artifact. The second day invites literary engagement around reading, representing and writing the nexus of Africa and America in the present on the UF campus and across the community.
Browse Retro Clothing and Handmade Goods at Florida Vintage Market
Sunday, October 25, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. | High Dive
210 SW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
This unique shopping experience features a variety of vendors including Gazzelli Sport Vintage, Relax Salt Rooms, Tropical Roots Plant Co., Always True and many more. Get tasty bites from EIM Thai food truck onsite. Photo taken prior to COVID-19. Masks are required.
Dive Into Freshwater Springs and Learn from Experts at Cave Fest
Monday, October 25 – Saturday, October 31 | Extreme Exposure Adventure Center
18481 High Springs Main St., High Springs, FL 32643
Cave Fest 2020 features presentations, workshops, guided dives and demos. Take the opportunity to explore new to you dive locations, learn from leading instructors and simply enjoy some great diving. Registration is required.
Celebrate the New Home of the High Springs Farmer’s Market
Tuesday, October 27, 2:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. | High Springs Farmer’s Market Pavilion
23517 NW 185th Rd., High Springs, FL 32643
The ribbon cutting of the High Springs Farmer’s Market Pavilion features guest speakers, Miss Florida Gator 2020, Newberry Watermelon Queen and more special guests. Light refreshments served. The High Springs Farmer’s Market features local produce and artisan goods every Friday 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Take a Supernatural Trip to New Orleans for the Final Weekend of Dracula on Stage
Now through Sunday, October 25 | High Springs Playhouse 23416 W U.S. Hwy 27, High Springs, FL 32643
Bram Stoker’s classic thriller is set in the French Quarter of New Orleans at the beginning of the jazz age. Into this Creole and Cajun culture in the courtyard behind Dr. Seward’s home, Dracula begins attacking his victims. Clark has mixed in voodoo rituals, drumming, Spring Carnivale strangers in masks, even comic characters such as Aunt Quincy who likes to drink as much as she likes to eat chocolates. Tickets must be purchased prior to arrival.
Find Festive Family-Friendly Fun This Weekend and Celebrate the Fall Season
Take a Haunted Hay Ride at Celebration Pointe on Thursday and Friday and listen to a spooky story narrated on headphones. Masks are required.
Hollow Oaks Corn Maze features family-friendly fun all weekend including a corn maze, hayride, photo opportunities and a Children’s Area with pumpkin bowling and more.
Find a corn maze, hayrides, a bounce house at the Peanut Patch and Corn Maze on Friday and Saturday.
Newberry’s Cornfield Maze delivers laughs during the day and scares at night with a corn maze, haunted house, hayrides and a kids play area.
The annual Fall Festival at Roger’s Farm takes place this weekend with train rides, corn maze, pumpkin patch, a corn cannon and more.
Jazz Up Your Week with the Trumpet Stylings of Joe Breidenstine
Monday, October 26, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | The Keys Grill and Piano Bar
4860 Celebration Pointe Ave. #30, Gainesville, FL 32608
Trumpeter Joe Breidenstine has performed around the world. Some of his most memorable performances have been with Lou Rawls, Tito Puente, Jon Faddis, George Benson, David “fathead” Newman and many others.
On Mondays, The Keys Grill and Piano Bar sets the stage for an ensemble of Gainesville’s best talent and a fresh play list to start your week off right with an evening of jazzy grooves, delicious bites, and tasty cocktails, with half price wine and Florida craft draughts for $4.
Get a Soundtrack of Soulful Blues and Americana during Songs from the Heart with Kyle Keller and Beartoe
Friday, October 23, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Online Event with Heartwood Soundstage
Kyle Keller and Beartoe bring high energy guitar and vocals to everything from Motown to bluegrass.
Heartwood Soundstage is a state-of-the-art recording studio, video production facility, and intimate performance venue – built by musicians for music lovers and music makers.
Discover the Latest Birding News from Local Experts on a Live “Bird Cast” from the Alachua Audubon Society
Thursday, October 15, 6:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. | Online Event with Alachua Audubon Society
Before adding bird-watching to your next adventure, take a little time to open your world to the species in our area. Migrating Bank Swallows and Semipalmated Sandpipers have already been spotted. Photo by Andy Reago and Chrissy McClarren.
The weekly broadcast from the Alachua Audubon Society highlights local news and notes, observations and occurrences from birding experts. Fall migration is already off to a start, find out about the latest developments and tune in on Facebook or Zoom.
Find out how to start birding here!
Find information about the top birding sites in Alachua County.
Tune-In to Gainesville LIVE! with Chris McCarty
Friday, October 23, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Online Event with Free Fridays Concert Series
Chris McCarty is one of Florida’s premiere alternative/acoustic performers. He’s shared the stage with James Brown, the Dave Mathews Band, Jason Mraz, Colbie Callait, Sugar Ray and more.
Gainesville LIVE! is brought to you by the City of Gainesville as a temporary way to share with the public the joy of the Free Fridays Concert Series. The series typically takes place from May to October when hundreds of visitors and locals head to the Bo Diddley Plaza in downtown Gainesville to listen and dance to a superb assembly of bands and talented musicians. It is the region’s longest running free outdoor live music series.
Rent a Canoe, Kayak or Paddleboard for an Adventure on the Santa Fe River. Cruise by Freshwater Springs, Wildlife and Natural Scenery.
Open Daily | Santa Fe Canoe Outpost
21410 NW US Hwy. 441, High Springs, FL 32643
Cruise down the Santa Fe River in your stress-free time capsule… err, we mean in your canoe, kayak or stand up paddleboard. All three are available for rent from the Santa Fe Canoe Outpost. Go up river for a leisurely ride back or explore several freshwater springs located downriver. Reservations are required. See trip times and safety measures here.
Explore Additional Parks and Trails Get Outside and Discover Gainesville and Alachua County’s Bountiful Outdoor Open Spaces with over one hundred miles of hiking and biking trails.
Find the park that suits you best! Most of the parks and trails in Alachua County have reopened including – Alachua County Parks, Playgrounds and Preserves, City of Gainesville Parks and Playgrounds, Alachua Conservation Trust preserves and all Florida State Parks.
Find the list of Alachua County Parks and Preserves here.
Find our What’s Good Now list of additional open spaces to explore here.
When enjoying the outdoors, please strictly adhere to public health safety guidelines, keep 6 feet away from others, avoid large groups of people and follow all State and local ordinances. Note that due to the changing environment and regulations, open hours are subject to change and some facilities may not be available.
Arts & Theatre
Coming up Friday, October 30 at 7 p.m. via Zoom The Hippodrome Theatre presents Those Two Are Definitely Getting Murdered by Kaitlyn McClincy
Talkback with playwright to follow.
Ruby and Tess are best friends who have a passion for pop culture, ghouls and the paranormal. On their way to a campy hub for a fantastic evening, their aspirations are dashed in stereotypical fashion, and they are forced to spend the night elsewhere. They are having the best time. Oh yeah, and Santa Claus is trying to murder them tonight. Those two are definitely getting murdered.
Private Performance of The Stronger at Black C Art Gallery
Now Through October 30
Music & Performance
Rocky Horror Picture Show Live on Stage at High Dive
Thursday, October 22, 8:30 p.m.
Comedy Night In Person + Live Stream at High Dive
Friday, October 23, 9 p.m.
80’s Rock with HeadrusH Live at Mother’s Pub & Grill North GainesvilleFriday, October 23, 9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Rock and Blues with Cassie Keenum at Lightnin’ Salvage
Saturday, October 24, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Marquis in Spades, Captain & the Lady Killers Live Stream + Beer Garden at High Dive
Saturday, October 24, 8:30 p.m.
Alt-Indie Rock with Jordan Burchel during the Virtual Concert Series Presented by MusicGNV
Monday, October 26, 7 p.m.
Country Music Wednesdays at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Wednesday, October 28, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Rock and folk hits, Jazz, Latin and World Music with Gosia & Ali at The Keys Grill and Piano Bar
Wednesday, October 28, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Keg of Laughs Comedy Hour at World of Beer
Wednesday, October 28, 8 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Craft Breweries
Boos & Brews at Blackadder Brewing Company
Monday, October 26, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Brainaholics Trivia at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Tuesday, October 27, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Beer Bingo Tuesday at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Tuesday, October 27, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
The Nightmare Before Christmas on the Big Screen at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Wednesday, October 28, 7:30 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.
$6 Burger Wednesday at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Wednesday, October 28, 12 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Trivia Night at Blackadder Brewing Company Gainesville
Wednesday, October 28, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Cornhole Tourney at High Springs Brewing Company
Wednesday, October 28, 6 p.m.
U-Picks & Farmer’s Markets
Cypress & Grove Farmer’s Market
Mondays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Union Street Farmer’s Market at Celebration Pointe
Wednesdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
GNV Market at Heartwood Soundstage with Knee-Slapping American Music from The Divebombers
Thursdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
High Springs Farmer’s Market
Fridays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Alachua County Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Haile Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Waldo Farmer’s Market
Saturdays and Sundays, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Bites & Brunch
Haunted House Tour at Downtown Wine and Cheese
Now through October 31, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Ravioli Pasta Making Class at The Fat Tuscan
Friday, October 30, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Dine at Local Restaurants and Enjoy New Outside Seating Options
Some restaurants are welcoming diners back into their dining rooms. You may also notice additional outdoor seating expanded onto sidewalks, into parking lots or into the street.
Did you know that our dining scene regularly makes national headlines? Find out why We Chomp with the best of them!
Find a searchable list of Alachua County restaurants here.
Sports
Grip It. Rip It. Sip It.
Try Axe Throwing at The Hatchetbury
213 NW 8th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
Mud Racing and Costume Contest at Halloween Truck or Treat at Waldo Motorsports
Saturday, October 24, 7 p.m.
Grassroots Motorsports $2000 Challenge (Racers Only) at Gainesville Raceway
Saturday, October 24 – Sunday, October 25
Aim for the Bullseye at Funtastic Fridays
Friday, October 16, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. | Easton Newberry Archery Center
24880 NW 16 Ave., Newberry, FL 32669
Join the most fun you can have with a bow for open shooting and archery games including tic-tac-toe, battle ship, bowling with bows and more. A free orientation is required and is offered at 5 p.m.
If you worked up an appetite after all that fun, you may wish to visit nearby restaurants like Arepas Milko, Villaggio Pizzeria, Woodyard Grill or nearby Tioga Town Center.
Mountain Bike Rides with Goodbike
Thursday, October 22, 7 p.m., Medium Pace for the Intermediate/Advanced Rider
Monday, October 26, 7 p.m., Brisk Pace for the Advanced Rider
Parks & Trails
Trek Through Cool Trails: Top 5 Family-Friendly and Dog-Friendly Shaded Hikes
Spending time in nature has been proven to benefit the mind, body and spirit, so round up the kids, find the dog, or go solo and reacquaint yourself with the outdoors on Alachua County’s nature trails.
River & Springs
Swim Into the Freshwater Springs and Experience Nature Near Gainesville
The springs are a perfect way to get outside and explore the untouched natural side of Florida. Did you know North Florida is home to over 1,000 freshwater springs? The water flows crystal clear at 72 degrees all year round so make a splash on your Gainesville and Alachua County itinerary.
Museums & Galleries
Spatial Inclinations at SoMa Art Media Hub
Outdoor event with live music and art exhibit. Friday, October 23
In, Of, From: Experiments in Sound at University Gallery
Now Through Friday, December 4
Matheson Museum Online Exhibit: Trailblazers 150 Years of Women in Alachua County
“A Sense of Place” Online Exhibit with Gainesville Fine Arts Association
Explore Florida’s History and Walk With Flying Butterflies at the Florida Museum
Open Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Browse Galleries Featuring Over 600 Works at the Harn Museum of Art
Open Thursday- Saturday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Spark Wonder at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
Fridays – Saturdays, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Save The Date
Find Halloween Events in Gainesville and Alachua County
Dance Alive National Ballet Presents Ballet and Beyond, October 31
Gator Cup at Easton Newberry Archery Center, November 6-8
For a complete list of events please visit www.visitgainesville.com/events/
Thank you for your continued partnership! Please keep in communication with us by sharing your events, updates and news with our team by emailing info@visitgainesville.com.
Your participation, communication, and sharing of events and programs is a key way for us to market our community to visitors and to enhance the engagement of residents in all of the incredible programs you create.
Put simply, the more you share with us, the more we have to promote. Please read the attached PDF document for additional ways in which your organization can participate.
Visit Gainesville, Alachua County | (352) 374-5260 | 33 North Main Street, Gainesville 32601 Never miss an event: Follow Visit Gainesville, Alachua County on social media.
This publication contains information about events, venues and activities in Alachua County, Florida. Reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the information is accurate. We are not responsible for errors or omissions in the information provided. For complete details, contact the host directly. The information is not advice, and should not be treated as such. Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing paragraph, we do not represent, warrant, undertake or guarantee that the information is correct, accurate, complete or non-misleading. We will not be liable to you in respect of any special, indirect or consequential loss or damage. If a section of this disclaimer is determined by any court or other competent authority to be unlawful and/or unenforceable, the other sections of this disclaimer continue in effect.
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