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The below information was accurate at the time of publishing. Please contact organizers directly to double-check details.
Treat the Mom in Your Life with Our List of Events and Brunch Options for Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is Sunday, May 14 and there’s still time to plan a special day for moms and mom figures. Find our list of special events, attractions with free admission and restaurants featuring Mother’s Day menus.
Celebrate Gainesville’s Music and Arts Heritage at the 2-Day Wombash Music Festival Featuring Sister Hazel
Friday May 12, 6 p.m. – 11 p.m | First Magnitude Brewing Company1220 SE Veitch St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Saturday, May 13, 12 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. | Heartwood Soundstage619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
The annual birthday celebration of local radio station “The Wombat” 90.1 features a 2-day music lineup. Friday at First Magnitude Brewing Company, enjoy the Jordan Burchel Band, The Slims and Avi Bortnick’s Cornpone. Saturday’s performances at Heartwood Soundstage feature Sister Hazel, What It Is, Morningbell, Sooza Brass Band, Little Jake and the Soul Searchers and The Ones to Blame. Enjoy an array of food trucks each day. Weekend passes and Friday tickets available, find more details at TheWombash.com.
Spring Into Summer with a Special Evening of Art at Museum Nights
Thursday, May 11, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | The Harn Museum of Art
3259 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608
The Harn celebrates Florida with a night featuring the exhibition “Florida Impressions,” a music tribute to Dr. Tom Petty and local musicians with Jason Hedges, kid-friendly art stations, free treats and more. Admission is free.Image: Albert Ernest Backus, “Road through the Orange Grove”
Savor a Brunch Menu Developed by a Collaboration of Chefs at Swallowtail Farm’s Brunch Experience
Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Swallowtail Farm
7301 SE 92nd Terr., Gainesville, FL 32641
Swallow Tail Farm’s final dining experience of the season is the very first brunch at the new farm location. The culinary team features Chefs Emily Piazza and Joseph Pierce of Mosswood Farm Store & Bakery with beautiful baked delights, Chef Jenna Melon recreating a historic recipe from Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and Chef Jeffrey Allen of Cheffrey’s Food Truck sears top cuts of 100% grass-fed beef.
Dining experiences at Swallowtail Farm include alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, one-hour farm tour with founder Noah Shitama and live music.
Head to the Ballpark for the Final Gators Baseball Home Series as No. 7 Florida takes on No. 5 Vanderbilt
Friday, May 12, 5:30 p.m., Saturday, May 13, 6:30 p.m., Sunday, May 14, 1 p.m.
Condron Family Ballpark | 2800 Citrus Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608
The regular season finale is the biggest of the year with a Top-10 matchup between the Florida Gators and Vanderbilt Commodores. The first 500 fans on Friday can get a free Florida Baseball grocery tote. Fans arriving early on Saturday can choose an item from the Gators Closet Cleanout. On Sunday, moms arriving through the gate get a free flower.
Dance with Jazz and Funk with Gruv Therapy at Jazz on the Green
Saturday, May 13, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Celebration Pointe
4949 Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
Gruv Therapy delivers a special blend of jazz, R&B and instrumental funk. Spread a blanket under the setting sun or pull up a chair and enjoy live music on the promenade. Enjoy food, drinks and sweet treats from nearby restaurants.
See Top Archers Take Aim at the Easton Foundations Gator Cup
Friday, May 12, 10:30 a.m., Saturday, May 13, 8 a.m., Sunday, May 14, 8 a.m.
Easton Newberry Archery Center
24880 NW 16th Ave, Newberry, FL 32669
The largest archery event of the year is a USA Archery Team qualifier. Over 700 registered competitors represent teams from across the country. Spectators are welcome and admission is free. Premium seating is available online.Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Spot Wildlife on a Ranger-Led Walking Tour at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Saturday, May 13, 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. | Sweetwater Wetlands Park
325 SW Williston Rd., Gainesville, FL 32641
Learn about the park’s history and important role in water management. Get a detailed view of plants and animals found throughout the wetlands. Recent bird sightings include Chimney Swift, Osprey, Great Crested Flycatcher, Carolina Chickadee, Savannah Sparrow and more. Bring water, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. The tour is free with general park admission.
Go Behind the Scenes at the Sip and Stroll: Tour of the Hippodrome Theatre
Sunday, May 14, 4 p.m. | Hippodrome Theatre
25 SE 2nd Pl., Gainesville, FL 32601
Explore areas of the Hippodrome that are typically off-limits to the public. Ask questions and gain insight into the inner workings of the Hippodrome. From the Hipp’s Lower Level basement and up to the little-known third floor, uncover hidden secrets of the theatre.
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Pop-Up Markets
Grand Opening of Aerie in Butler Town Center
Thursday, May 11, 10 a.m.
20th Anniversary of 5.11 Tactical and Book Sining by Steve Sweeting, author of “Street Stoic” at 5.11 Tactical
Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Handmade Vendors, Live Music, Native Seed Bombs, Kids Activities and More at Spring Pop-Up Shop at Grow Hub
Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Browse Art, Jewelry, Vintage and More at the Mother’s Day May Market at The AUK Market
Saturday, May 13, 12 p.m – 5 p.m.
Mother’s Day Muffins and Mimosas Art Market at Artisans Guild Gallery
Sunday, May 14, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Shop local boutiques and national brands at Butler Enterprises, Celebration Pointe, The Oaks Mall and Shoppes at Thornebrook.
Arts & Theatre
The Spongebob Musical Presented by Star Center Theatre and Sharing School at UF Phillips Center
Tuesday, May 16, 7 p.m.
Events & Festivals
(sold out) Comedic Live Storytelling with Guts and Glory GNV at Decisions, Decisions at The Wooly
Thursday, May 11, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Terrarium Art Night at Island Grove Wine Tasting House
Thursday, May 12, 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Gainesville Opportunity Center Bike Day 2023 Starting at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Saturday, May 13, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Gainesville Cars and Coffee at Butler Town Center
Sunday, May 14, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Mother’s Day Floral Market with Sunny and Share Stems at 4th Ave Food Park
Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Free 2nd Saturday Street Circus at GNV Streatery (10 SW 1st Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601)
Saturday, May 13, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Music & Performance
Rock and Roll with Seven Year Witch and Tristan Tritt at High Dive
Thursday, May 11, 7 p.m.
The Gainesville Big Band at Baby J’s
Thursday, May 11, 8 p.m.
Classic Rock with Wild Blue Yonder at One Love Café
Friday, May 12, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Jazz with the Swazz Band at Baby J’s
Friday, May 12, 8 p.m.
Emo Punk with The Joytraders at Loosey’s Downtown
Friday, May 12, 8 p.m.
Indie Rock with Aleutian Low at The Bull
Friday, May 12, 9 p.m.
Jazz with Decyo and the Newcombs at Lightnin’ Salvage
Saturday, May 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Concierto de Dia de las Madres at Bo Diddley Plaza
Saturday, May 13, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Jazz Night with Cathy DeWitt at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Saturday, May 13, 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Music on the Patio with “Phil “Jazzdad” Thomas and Friends at A. Quinn Jones Museum & Cultural Center
Saturday, May 13, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Fusion Jazz and Rock with Dopapod and Tamayo at High Dive
Saturday, May 13, 8 p.m.
All-vinyl Set with Jazz Hop Hop Funk and Soul with DJ Wax Atom at Baby J’s
Saturday, May 13, 9 p.m.
Mother’s Day Concert with Gainesville Community Band at Saint Patricks Church
Sunday, May 14, 3 p.m.
Blues with Moondog at One Love Café
Sunday, May 14, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Rock with Camacho at Loosey’s Downtown
Sunday, May 14, 7 p.m.
Strings and Folk with Wire Birds at Lightinin’ Salvage
Wednesday, May 17, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Craft Breweries
FUNdamentals of Flamenco Fusion at Blackadder Brewing Company
Saturday, May 13, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Gainesville Dance Academy Irish Dance at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company
Saturday, May 13, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Mother’s Day with Free Beer for Moms and Jazz with JZNT at Blackadder Brewing Company
Sunday, May 14, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Reggae Sunday at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company
Sunday, May 14, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
U-Picks & Farmers Markets
U-Pick Flowers at Mother’s Day at The Bryer Patch
Saturday, May 13 – Sunday, May 14, 2 p.m. – sundown
Strawberry U-Pick at Frog Song Organics
Saturday, May 13, 2 p.m. – 5 pm.
U-Pick Blueberries at Santa Fe Blueberries
Open Daily, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
U-Pick Blueberries at Aunt Zelma’s Blueberries
Friday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
U-Pick Blueberries at Straughn Farms in Archer
Wednesday – Friday, 4 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday – Sunday, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Grove Street Farmers Market with Live Music
Mondays, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Archer Farmers Market Spring Plant Sale at Archer Historical Society Railroad Museum
Tuesday, March 7, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
GNV Market at South Main Station Featuring Live Music
Thursdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
High Springs Farmers Market
Fridays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Mother’s Day Festival at Alachua Farmers Market
Saturday, May 13, 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Newberry Farmers Market
Saturdays, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Haile Village Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Waldo Farmers Market
Saturdays and Sundays, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Bites and Brunch
Wine Tasting at Superette Wine and Provisions
Thursday, May 11, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, May 11, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
(sold out) Spring Farm-to-Table Dinner at the Giving Garden
Saturday, May 13, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Mother’s Day Brunch Menu at The Swamp Restaurant
Sunday, May 14, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at Covey Kitchen and Cocktails
Sunday, May 14, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mother’s Day MVP Menu at Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille
Sunday, May 14, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Mother’s Day Brunch at Sweetwater Branch Inn
Sunday, May 14, 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
(sold out) Mother’s Day Brunch and Tarts Cooking Class at The Fat Tuscan
Sunday, May 14, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sports
2023 NCAA Women’s Lacrosse Tournament Rounds 1 and 2: Gators Lacrosse vs. Jacksonville University
Friday, May 12, 4 p.m.
Winner faces Mercer/Notre Dame on Sunday, May 12, 12:30 p.m.
Insider Exposure May Madness Basketball Tournament at Legacy Park Multipurpose Center
Friday, May 12 – Sunday, May 14
USSSA Rex and Brody Softball Tournament at Champions Park
Saturday, May 13 – Sunday, May 14
Car Show, Swap Meet and Mega Test and Tune Drag Racing at Gainesville Raceway
Saturday, May 13, 8 a.m.
Gainesville Roller Rebels All Stars vs. Orlando Roller Derby at MLK Center
Saturday, May 13, 6 p.m.
Gators Baseball Meet and Greet at Alumni Hall
Monday, May 15, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
Parks & Trails
Accessible Tram Tours at Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Ongoing, Check for Availability
Thursday, May 11, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
Tuesday, May 17, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
History and Lore Hike with Adventure Outpost at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park
Friday, May 12, 10 a.m.
Free Timed 5K at Depot Park parkrun
Saturday, May 6, 7:30 a.m.
Wednesday Bird Walks at the Wetlands at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Wednesday, May 17, 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.
River & Springs
Splash in the Wave Pool or Float Down the Lazy River at Kulaqua River Ranch Community Days with Free Admission for Moms
Sunday, May 4, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Paddle 8 Springs in 8 Miles or Slowly Float Down the Santa Fe River at Poe Springs Park with Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures
Friday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Float or Splash Into Freshwater Springs
North Florida is home to the largest collection of first-magnitude springs in the United States.
Museums & Galleries
New at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention, Leonardo Divinci: Machines in Motion
Sunday, May 14, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The new traveling exhibit allows guests to discover and interact with 40 full-scale machines that were built after in-depth study of Leonardo da Vinci’s designs by a group of scientists and skilled craftsmen in Florence, Italy. The exhibit will be on display through Sunday, January 7.
Interwoven Waters: Exploring Florida’s Interconnected Waterwayswith Vasilios Kosmakos at Matheson History Museum
Saturday, May 13, 4 p.m.
New at the Matheson History Museum, We Are Here: Stories from Multilingual Speakers in North Central Florida
Museum Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Opening Reception: Friday, May 19, 7 p.m.
Art & Mindfulness: Coming to Your Senses with Trish Magyari at the Harn Museum of Art
Saturday, May 13, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Now on View at the Harn Museum of Art: Posing Beauty in African American Culture at the Harn Museum of Art
Tuesdays – Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Thursdays, 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., Fridays – Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sundays, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Posing Beauty in African American Culture explores the ways in which African and African American beauty has been represented in historical and contemporary contexts through a diverse range of media including photography, video, fashion and advertising.
Get Up Close and Explore the World of Arachnids at Spiders Alive! at the Florida Museum of Natural History
With more than a dozen live species from around the world, the new exhibit dives into the world of spiders, scorpions and their relatives. Featured animals on display include the Asian Forest Scorpion, Brazilian Red and White Tarantula, Southern Black Widow, Wolf Spider and more. Go hands-on with large touchable models revealing a closer look at spider anatomy. Plan your visit online.
Photo courtesy Florida Museum / Jeff Gage
Discover a Unique African American Culture at Gullah Geechee – African Connections and Cultural Traditions in America at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Save The Date
Journey to Juneteenth Kickoff, May 19
Newberry Watermelon Festival, May 20
Grassroots Motorsports $2000 Challenge at Gainesville Raceway, May 27-28
Free Friday Concert Series, June 2 – August 25
Swallowtail Farm Food is Medicine Conference, June 10-11
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.
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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.
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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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