What’s Good Guide of Weekly Events in Gainesville and Alachua County, October 12-18, 2023

whats good guide of weekly events
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Find fun Friday the 13th events and fall festivals with What’s Good. Browse the night market at Shoppes at Thornebrook. Watch the opening weekend of Sweeney Todd the Demon Barber of Fleet Street on stage at Acrosstown Repertory Theatre. Add family fun in Waldo at the annual Fall Festival.

Learn from agriculture demonstrations at the 2023 UF/IFAS Extension Extravaganza. Get outside and explore the newly opened trails at Phifer Flatwoods Preserve and view the solar eclipse and go stargazing at Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center.

Read on for more of What’s Good.

Be safe and be well,
Your partners at Visit Gainesville, Alachua County

Be Informed: The below information was accurate at the time of publishing. 
Please contact organizers directly to double-check details.


extension extravaganza

See Demos from Alachua County 4-H, Browse Plants from Master Gardeners and Enjoy Family-Friendly Activities at the UF/IFAS Extension Extravaganza and Food Truck Rally
Saturday, October 14, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center
23100 W Newberry Rd., Newberry, FL 32669 

Bring the family for a day of fun and learning with activities featuring UF/IFAS departments. Kids can hop on train rides and jump in the bounce house. Grab a bite from the variety of food trucks onsite including Arepa Burger, Cilantro Tacos, Germain Chicken Sandwiches, Twisted Tikka and more. Join walking tours of Florida Friendly Landscaping at 11 a.m., 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. Educational presentations include landscaping, herbs and livestock. Admission is free.


indigenous peoples day

Honor the Original Inhabitants of America with Indigenous People’s Day Celebrations 

American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians have built vibrant and diverse cultures — safeguarding land, language, spirit, knowledge, and tradition across the generations. On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, our Nation celebrates the invaluable contributions and resilience of Indigenous peoples. Following are local events in honor of this day: 

Museum Nights Celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Week
Thursday, October 12, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Harn Museum of Art

3259 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608
Join the Harn Museum and experience dance, drumming and art by indigenous artists. Other activities, developed by non-Native students, offer opportunities to reflect on and acknowledge the cultures of indigenous peoples. 

Indigenous Peoples’ Day Celebration
Saturday, October 14 | Morningside Nature Center

3540 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32641
Enjoy ceremonies and traditional drumming and dance. Step back in time at the living history encampment.


world music fest

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the UF World Music Festival
Friday, October 13, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Bo Diddley Plaza

Downtown Gainesville

Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of world music under the stars. The evening features Arismar do Espirito Santo, a special guest from Brazil, Maharajah Flamenco Trio and several ensembles with unique mixtures of musical instruments, repertoires and arrangements providing new perspectives on interpreting diverse musical regions.

Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.


waldo fall festival

Pack Up the Car for Family Fun at the City of Waldo’s Annual Fall Festival
Saturday, October 14, 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. | Waldo City Square

14450 NE 148th Ave., Waldo, FL 32694

Find Waldo at the corner of fall and fun! Join the 30th annual Waldo Fall Festival for family-friendly activities including games, food, prizes and more at Waldo City Square. Admission is free.


art walk high springs

Stroll Through Vibrant Downtown High Springs and Meet Local Artists at the High Springs Art Walk
Saturday, October 14, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. | Downtown High Springs

See live painting from muralist Pat Valcante and clay technique demonstrations from Lynda Cross. Downtown High Springs also offers many eclectic restaurants and shops showcasing the community’s vibrant personality and charm.

Unique Notions celebrates their 5-year anniversary. Outside Lanza Gallery & Art Supplies, see the latest creations from Debra Ridgdill’s Potz Pottery. Inside the gallery view works by mosaic artist Karen Koegel. Good News Arts presents “All things left unsaid” a solo exhibition of quilt based mixed media works by Silently Stitched.


rainbow sidewalk

Celebrate LGBT History Month with Local Events

The Pride Community Center of North Central Florida hosts a calendar of events leading up to the 2023 Gainesville Pride Festival on Saturday, October 21. 

Spooky Pride Drag Show at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Friday, October 13, 7 p.m.

Hosted by the one and only Emma Gration, this sultry and spooky show features special guests Violet PrimaDonna, Shauntel St.James Black, Aurora Whorealis, and Inertia Summer Darling.

Alachua’s Queer History Gallery at Matheson History Museum
Saturday, October 14 – Saturday, October 28

The temporary exhibit in the Main Gallery interprets the history of the LGBTQ+ community featuring their recently acquired collection from the Pride Community Center of North Central Florida. The gallery takes a broad view of Gainesville’s queer community and its important institutions during the long fight for equality while displaying memorabilia and artifacts.

Pride at Prairie Creek at Prairie Creek Lodge
Sunday, October 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m

Guided hikes, watch live wildlife demonstrations, learn about the conservation and queer inclusivity work being done in our community from the organizations themselves, shop local vendors, and enter a drawing of chance for some REI Pride goodies and more

Queer Makers Market at 4th Ave Food Park
Sunday, October 15, 11 a.m.

Browse queer makers and artists.

Pride Trivia at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Tuesday, October 17, 6:30 p.m.

The special Pride edition of Brainaholics team trivia features FM Bucks prizes for first, second and third place. Food available from food trucks.

Drag Bingo at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Wednesday, October 18, 8 p.m.

Enjoy a fun and fabulous game of bingo fit for a Qween with Drag Bingo hosted by the extraordinary Emma Gration. 

Pride Walk and Talk with Alachua Conservation Trust at Tuscawilla Preserve
Friday, October 20, 3 p.m.

Join Alachua Conservation Trust for a community hike at Tuscawilla Preserve

Queer Joy Street Party at The Bull
Friday, October 20, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

On the eve of Gainesville’s Annual Pride Festival, enjoy local queer-owned businesses, speed friendship dating and networking, live music, prizes and costume contest.

Pride Sip N’ Spin at Studio TM Ceramics
Friday, October 20, 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Get your hands dirty and learn wheel-throwing skills.

Gainesville Pride Festival 2023 at Bo Diddley Plaza
Saturday, October 21, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Browe over 100 vendors and enjoy live entertainment from LGBTQ+ performers in downtown Gainesville. Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County

Rhinestones & Rust: A Queer Country Showcase at Civic Media Center
Saturday, October 21, 8 p.m.

Rhinestones & Rust: A Queer Country Showcase, featuring performances by Brooklyn-based artists Paisley Fields and Wiley Gaby, alongside Gainesville’s own Wax Wings and Cooper. Get ready to strut your stuff with line dancing instruction with Alice Hix.


heartwood soundstage lineup

Catch One or Catch Them All – Heartwood Soundstage’s FIRE Line Up Heats Things Up, Just Before Tom Petty Weekend
Quality live indie music is alive and well in Gainesville, Florida. This week Heartwood Soundstage presents:

As Seen on Bravo’s Vanderpump Rules, Tom Sandoval and the Most Extras Party Cover Band at Heartwood Soundstage
Thursday, October 12, 9 p.m.

Indie Live Outdoor Concerts Series Presents Soul Candy, Madwoman, Quail Hollow and Buboy at Heartwood Soundstage
Friday, October 13, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.

(sold out)Indie with Travis Atria Performing the New Album “Atria” with 18-Piece Orchestra at Heartwood Soundstage
Saturday, October 14, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Music of the Allman Brothers Band with Steelin’ Peaches at Heartwood Soundstage
Saturday, October 14, 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.
The line up heats up the stage next week for Tom Petty Weekend, October 20 – 22, the official festival of Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers Fan Club and Tom Petty Nation featuring Shovels and Rope, Jake Thistle, Jeff Slate, Shine and The Shakers and more.


sweeney todd

See a Tale of Revenge Unfold on Stage at the Opening Weekend of Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, A Musical Thriller
Friday, October 13 – Sunday, October 29 | Acrosstown Repertory Theatre
3501 SW 2nd Ave. STE O, Gainesville, FL 32607

Sit on the edge of your seat for a suspenseful tale of crime and revenge. Barber Sweeney Todd returns to London to uncover the past, along the way meeting pie shop owner Mrs. Nellie Lovett, and begins a life of crime. Content contains adult themes. 


friday the 13th market

Get Spooky at the Shoppes at Thornebrook’s Friday the 13th Night Market
Friday, October 13, 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Shoppes at Thornebrook

2441 NW 43rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606

Trick-or-treat along the sidewalks that meander through the Shoppes at Thornebrook. Browse Halloween-themed  goods from local artisans including Grinning Mugs, Onyx and Iris, Sunshine Clay Studio, Hannele’s Stitches and more . Enjoy music from Kiss 105.3 FM. Grab a bite from food trucks Rollin Sliders, Vegan Gator, Frenchmen Street Food and Back Porch Burgers. 


bazar a la carte

Pump the Jam. Join the Street Party and Browse Local Vendors at the Bazar À La Carte Night Festival
Saturday, October 14, 6 p.m. – 11 p.m. | How Bazar
60 SW 2nd St., Gainesville, FL 32601

The How Bazar takes over 2nd Street in Downtown Gainesville for an outdoor night market and festival. Enjoy a fashion show, over 100 artisan vendors, skate jam, food trucks, DJs, the new Bazar Marching Band and more. 


international car show

Zoom in for a Close-Up View of Real Life “Hot Wheels” at the International Car Show
Saturday, October 14, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Butler Town Center

3217 SW 35th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32601

The 3rd Annual International Car Show features vintage and modern cars and motorcycles from Mercedes to Audi and Ferrari to Lamborghini. Also on display is “Cannonball” Jack May’s Cannonball Dino. Admission is free for spectators.


nobuntu

Experience Rich Voices from the All-Woman A Cappella Quartet Nobuntu
Sunday, October 15, 7:30 p.m. | UF Phillips Center

3201 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611

The word Nobuntu is an African concept that values humility, love, unity, and family from a woman’s perspective. Nobuntu covers the gamut from gospel to traditional Zimbabwean songs to Afro-jazz. Augmented only using minimal percussion, they emphasize pure voices, authentic dance movements, and the use of traditional instruments.


blues band on stage

Cheer on Your Favorite Blues Bands to Represent North Central Florida at the Regional Blues Challenge at Gainesville’s Home for Live Music – High Dive
Sunday, October 15, 4 p.m. | High Dive
210 SW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601

North Central Florida Blues Society’s Regional Blues Challenge allows winning bands to advance to the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. Sunday’s lineup includes Pete Garfinkel, Sweet William, Barry Brogan, Blues Prescription, Ramblin’ Mutts and Southern Junction Blues Band. Support your favorite band or discover a new act.


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Pop-Up Markets and Retail Shopping

fall pop at grow hub

Plants and Kids Activities at the Fall Pop-Up Shop at Grow Hub
Saturday, October 14, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Plants and Live Music with Local Vendors at the Fall Pop-Up at Landscapes Unlimited Nursery
Saturday, October 14, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

5th Anniversary Pop-Up Market at The AUK Market
Saturday, October 14, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

outdoor market

Browse Retro Fashions and More at the The Florida Vintage Market at Midpoint Park and Eatery
Sunday, October 15, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Shop local boutiques and national brands at Butler Enterprises, Celebration Pointe, The Oaks Mall and Shoppes at Thornebrook.


Arts & Theatre

new works festival

2023 New Works Festival at the Hippodrome Theatre
Since its inception in 2020, The Hippodrome Theatre’s annual New Works Festival has been a beacon for narrative voices in Florida, nurturing the development of plays in both traditional and experimental forms. This festival serves as a vibrant mosaic, reflecting the rich tapestry of artists in Florida and their compelling stories, which offer a unique perspective on the American experience.
The Art of Floating by Jennifer A. Kokai
Friday, October 13, 7:30 p.m.
A play about death, faith, and learning to float through Jello.
Slaymaker by Bethany Dickens Assaf
Saturday, October 15, 7:30 p.m.
Jay and Meghan both agree: ‘Slaymaker’ is the badassest surname for anyone ever – especially a Magic The Gathering champion (or a champion in the making).

two muskateers

Laugh Out Loud at the Fast-Paced Comedy The Two Musketeers at Santa Fe College Jackson N. Sasser Fine Arts Hall
Friday, October 13, 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, October 14, 9:30 p.m.
Based on the classic novel “The Three Musketeers” by Alexandre Dumas, “The Two Musketeers!” is the story of a company of actors who find themselves short on funds for a production. Since the show must go on, six actors play multiple roles as they fight to save France, their queen and their own skins. The action includes sword fights, romantic entanglements, plot twists and even some cross-dressing.

The Color Purple: Teen Edition at Star Center Theatre
Now through Saturday, October 14
The Color Purple is an inspiring family saga that tells the unforgettable story of a woman who, through love, finds the strength to triumph over adversity and discover her unique voice in the world.


Events & Festivals

in disguise storytelling meetup

Self Narrate Storytelling Meetup: In Disguise at The Bull
Thursday, October 12, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Oktoberfest at Haile Village Center
Friday, October 13, 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Bike Night at Dave and Buster’s
Friday, October 13, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

uf family fishing days

“Spooky Candy Day” Family Fishing at UF/IFAS Fishing Ponds
Saturday, October 14, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Camellias, Azaleas, Succulents and More at the 2023 Fall Plant Sale at Wilmot Botanical Gardens
Saturday, October 14, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Yoga with Little Goats at Krazy Hearts Farm
Saturday, October 14, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.

Arts, Crafts, Food Trucks and Family Fun at Northeast Fall Fest at Citizens Field
Saturday, October 14, 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Dogs in Costume with German Beer and Music at Barktoberfest at Lebowski’s Brew Pub
Saturday, October 14, 1 p.m.

solar eclipse and star gazing

Solar Eclipse Viewing and Stargazing at Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center
Saturday, October 14, 1 p.m. – 10 p.m.

House Numbers Welding and Plasma Cutting Workshop at [Fe]ver Metal Art Center
Saturday, October 14, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Happy Sailor Book Launch of “With My Little Spade” with Author Richard Rosengarten and Illustrator Thais Bolton at Santa Fe College Blount Center
Sunday, October 15, 3 p.m.

corn maze

Newberry Cornfield Maze and Haunted House
Now through Saturday, October 28

Crossroads Farm & Apiary Fall Festival
Now through – October 31

Peanut Patch and Corn Maze
Now through – Saturday, October 28

Hollow Oaks Corn Maze
Now through – Sunday, November 5

The Gainesville Fear Garden Presents The Haunt Lab
Now through Friday, November 3

pumpkin festival

Pumpkin Festival at The Bryer Patch
Saturday, October 14 – Sunday, October 15, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.


Music & Performance

Poetry Jam at Civic Media Center
Thursday, October 12, 8 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Comedian Uncle Lazer at High Dive
Thursday, October 12, 8 p.m.

Bass and Beats with Sentere, Tsketch, Cannabass and Drew Love at The Wooly
Thursday, October 12, 10 p.m. – 1:45 a.m.

Jazz Night with The Oak Trio at 4th Ave Food Park
Friday, October 13, 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Classic Rock with Wild Blue Yonder at One Love Café
Friday, October 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Pre-War Blues with John Ford at Lightnin’ Salvage
Friday, October 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

tioga concert night

Throwback 80s and 90s with Tamayo at Tioga Town Center
Friday, October 13, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Dueling Pianos with Leon Novembre and Brad Heron at the Keys Grill and Piano Bar
Friday, October 13 – Saturday, October 14, 9 p.m. – 12 a.m.

Classic Rock and Motown with Raftus Brown at One Love Café
Saturday, October 14, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Metal with Apex at High Dive
Saturday, October 14, 8 p.m.

ordinary boys

Ordinary Boys Tribute to the Music of The Smiths and Morrissey at The Wooly
Friday, October 13, 8 p.m. – 11:55 p.m.

Soul Jazz Classics with The Edward White Quartet at Baby J’s Bar
Friday, October 13, 9 p.m.

Jazz Night with Cathy DeWitt and Jerry Carris at Beakers and Flask Wine Co.
Saturday, October 14, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Singer-Songwriter Dominic Delaney at Civic Media Center
Saturday, October 14, 7 p.m.

Rock and Roll with Late Night Losers at The Bull
Saturday, October 14, 7 p.m.

Country, Rock and Caribbean with In The Moment at the Great Outdoors Restaurant
Saturday, October 14, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Jazz, Hip Hop, Funk and Soul All Vinyl Set with DJ Wax Atom at Baby J’s Bar
Saturday, October 14, 9 p.m. 

Voices Rising Community Chorus Fall Concert “From Stage and Screen” at First United Methodist Church
Sunday, October 15, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. ​

Gainesville Big Band Fall Concert at Meizon Church
Sunday, October 15, 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Piano Recital with Dr. Hsiang Tu at The Historic Thomas Center
Sunday, October 15, 2 p.m.

Glitter Folk with Scott Yoder at Loosey’s Downtown
Sunday, October 15, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Sonic Art with Shara Lunon at How Bazar
Tuesday, October 17, 6 p.m.

Traditional Irish Session at Lightnin’ Salvage
Tuesday, October 17, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Swing Dancing at Sip N Swing at The Bull
Tuesday, October 17, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.


Craft Breweries

Image of the Sippin' Seven Ale Trail logo depicting a blue bison witj seven blue birds siting on the Bison's back. Photo also shows a pint glass with the same logo. Text on image says: Award-winning breweries. Gainesville. Alachua. High Springs. Visit Gainesville.com

Add to the gameday weekend on the Sippin’ Seven Alachua Count Ale Trail. Check-in at local breweries and earn points with the free digital pass. Learn more and sign up online.

Learn more and sign up for free at VisitGainesville.com/sippinseven.

Click here and check out the most recent edition of the Sippin’ Seven On Tap newsletter featuring fun upcoming events at local breweries.

Oktoberfest at High Springs Brewing Company
Friday, October 13, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.

(sold out) Freaky Friday: Live Storytelling with Guts and Glory GNV at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company
Friday, October 13, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

dont brew me like that

Tom Petty Themed Beer Releases at Don’t Brew Me Like That at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Saturday, October 14, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

plant swap and sale

Plant Swamp and Sale at Swamp Head Brewery
Sunday, October 15, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Gainesville Fall Record Fair at Cypress Grove and Brewing Company
Sunday, October 15, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

U-Picks & Farmers Markets

Grove Street Farmers Market with Live Music
Mondays, 4 p.m. –7 p.m.

Archer Farmers Market at Archer Historical Society Railroad Museum
Tuesdays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

GNV Market at South Main Station
Thursdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Fall Farmers Market at Celebration Pointe
Thursdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

High Springs Farmers Market
Fridays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Alachua County Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Haile Village Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Waldo Farmers and Flea Market
Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Union Street Farmers Market at Bo Diddley Plaza
Wednesdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

farmers market

NEW: Newberry Farmers and Makers Market
Saturday, October 14, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.


Bites and Brunch

Wine Tasting at Superette Wine and Provisions
Thursday, October 12, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 

Wine Tasting at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, October 12, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Wine Tasting at the Traveler Wine Bar
Thursday, October 12, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Spooky Art Night at Island Grove Wine Tasting House
Friday, October 13, 6:30 p.m.

A Black Cat Affair with Games, Drinks and Hor d’Oeuvers at The Traveler Wine Bar
Friday, October 13, 7 p.m.

Wine Tasting Class – Aperitifs, Vermouths and Amaros with Melody Wilson at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Saturday, October 14, 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.

All About Tarts Cooking Class at The Fat Tuscan
Saturday, October 14, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Macaron and Wine Pairing Flight to Europe: The Mediterranean at Le Macaron
Saturday, October 14, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Spooky Cocktails with Becca Barbaree from Mark’s Prime at The Laurel Oak Inn
Monday, October 16, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.


Sports

Live Broadcast of Gator Talk at The Keys Grill and Piano Bar
Thursday, October 12, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Gators Men’s and Women’s Swimming and Diving vs. University of Virginia at UF O’Connell Center
Friday, October 13, 11 a.m.

archery targets

Funtastic Fridays at Easton Newberry Archery Center
Friday, October 13, 5:30 p.m.

1st Annual Alachua County Alumni Basketball Tournament at Legacy Park Multipurpose Center
Saturday, October 14, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Join Fellow Gearheads and See Exotic Sports Cars Compete at Import Face-Off
Saturday, October 14, 7 p.m. – 12 a.m.

Premier Girls Fastpitch Show Me the Money Softball Tournament at Champions Park
Saturday, October 14 – Sunday, October 15

22nd Annual Senior Games: Table Tennis at Alachua County Sports and Events Center
Saturday, October 14

Gators Softball Fall Exhibition vs. Jacksonville at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium
Saturday, October 14, 12 p.m.

Gators Softball Fall Exhibition vs. USF at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium
Tuesday, October 17, 6 p.m.

people playing pickleball

Join Open Gym Sessions for Pickleball, Volleyball, Basketball and Cheerleading at the Alachua County Sports and Events Center


Parks & Trails

trail map

Explore the Newly Opened Trails at Phifer Flatwoods Preserve

Accessible Tram Tours at Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Ongoing, Check for Availability
Friday, October 13, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, October 14, 9 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Sunday, October 15, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Monday, October 16, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Weekly Walk & Talk with Alachua Conservation Trust at Santa Fe River Preserve
Friday, October 13, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

group at devils millhopper

Ranger-Led Tour at Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park
Saturday, October 14, 10 a.m.

la chua trail boardwalk

Birding Field Trip with Alachua Audubon Society at La Chua Trail
Saturday, October 14, 8 a.m.

Free Timed 5K at Depot Park parkrun
Saturday, October 14, 7:30 a.m.

Jean Dorney Memorial Wildflower Walk at Morningside Nature Center
Saturday, October 14, 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.


River & Springs

paddling on the santa fe river

Enjoy Cooler Weather and Explore the Outdoors and with Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures and Visit 8 Springs in 8 Miles
Friday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Fed by the underground Floridan Aquifer, North Florida has one of the highest concentrations of springs in the world. Anderson’s Outdoor Adventure offers an easy way to experience 8 springs in 8 miles. Paddle along the Santa Fe River in a canoe or kayak and experience crystal clear water, see native wildlife and relax in a tranquil nature setting. 

tubing at the springs

Float or Splash Into Freshwater Springs
North Florida is home to the largest collection of first-magnitude springs in the United States. The springs make a perfect destination for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and relaxing in nature. If you’re looking for outdoor fun, we’ve got you covered with our list of nearby springs, great places to stay and fun things to do.


Museums & Galleries

Oil Painting with a Live Model Workshop at GFAA
Saturday, October 14 – Sunday, October 15, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Ask a Scientist: Black in Natural History Museums at the Florida Museum of Natural History
Saturday, October 14, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. 

The Gullah Geechee Exhibit: African Connections and Cultural Traditions Closing Reception at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Saturday, October 14, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Donuts and Drawing at Good News Arts
Friday, October 13, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

dinosaur display

Chill with Cool Dinos at the New Interactive Exhibit “Antarctic Dinosaurs” at the Florida Museum of Natural History
Now through April 21

Step back in time and discover life beneath the ice in Antarctic Dinosaurs. Uncover the history of the world’s southernmost continent and the unique species that have called it home in this interactive, family-friendly experience. Antarctic Dinosaurs is on display through April 21.Photo courtesy of Bria Woods for the Witte Museum

Go Behind-the-Scenes with a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer at the new Exhibit “Tom Petty: Among the Wildflowers”
Open Now through December 31, Thursday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
811 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 

Tom Petty: Among the Wildflowers explores the joys, pains, and creative awakenings that Gainesville native Tom Petty experienced while pouring his soul into his magnum opus, Wildflowers, released in November 1994. The exhibit includes artifacts previously on display at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio.  Explore three unique aspects of the Wildflowers creative process: songwriting, recording, and reception and delivery. The exhibit runs through December 31.


Save The Date

Nick Carter at UF Phillips Center, October 19

Tom Petty Weekend at Heartwood Soundstage, October 20-22

Fall Plant Sale and Orchid Show at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, October 21-22

Florida Bat Festival at Lubee Bat Conservancy, October 21

FEST 21, October 27-29

How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse, October 27-30

Dance Alive National Ballet Presents Swan Lake, October 27

48th Micanopy Fall Festival, October 28-29

42nd Annual Downtown Festival and Art Show in Downtown Gainesville, November 18-19



For a complete list of events please visit www.visitgainesville.com/events/

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