What’s Good Guide of Weekly Events in Gainesville and Alachua County, February 29 – March 6, 2024

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Leap into the first weekend in March with What’s Good. Enjoy music under the stars with the Live and Local music concert at Bo Diddley Plaza in Downtown Gainesville. Celebrate arts and creativity with the Shoppes at Thornebrook Springs Arts Festival or join a walking tour of the Walldogs murals, plus browse artwork at Art Fair on the Green in High Springs. Make a day of it with lunch or dinner at a local restaurant, craft beer and live music at High Springs Brewing Company.

Meet the next generation of farmers at the Alachua County Youth Fair and Livestock Show. Plow Up the Past at Dudley Farm Historic State Park See with vintage farm equipment and tractors or feel the thrill of watching top collegiate athletes wiz by at the National Junior College Athletic Association Indoor Track and Field Championships.

Read on for more of What’s Good,
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.


spring arts festival thornebrook

Celebrate Arts and Creativity with the Thornebrook Springs Arts Festival
Saturday, March 2 – Sunday, March 3, 10 am. – 5 p.m. | Shoppes at Thornebrook
2441 NW 43rd St., Gainesville FL, 32606

Browse more than 60 artists with displays of painting, sculpture, photography, glass works, fiber arts, wood carvings, pottery, jewelry, and more.

Grab a bite from Shoppes at Thornebrook restaurants Bageland, Cintron, Mini Momo and Thornebrook Chocolates. Food trucks include Bleu Rain, Eim Thai, Latin Food Blessing, A Sweeter Option and Back Porch Burgers.


art fair on the green

Take a Picturesque Walking Tour of the High Springs Walldogs Murals and Browse Art Displays at Art Fair on the Green
Saturday, March 2 – Sunday, March 3, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Downtown High Springs
18554 High Springs Main St., High Springs, FL 32643

Artist booths line High Springs for a weekend of art. At 1 p.m. on both days, join a walking mural tour of hand-painted installations from Walldogs artists. Enjoy live music, food and craft beer at High Springs Brewing Company. Stroll through the charming downtown and find restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and antique stores. Pets on a leash are welcome and admission is free. 


scamore lane march market

Browse Vintage Goods from Over 40 Vendors at Sycamore Lane March Vintage Market
Friday, March 1, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

3824 SW 170th St., Archer, FL 32618

Sycamore Lane’s seasonal outdoor market features a relaxed sip and shop experience with a large selection of vintage goods.  Enjoy beer, wine and live music as you browse furniture, décor and more.  Friday night features live music with classic rock and modern hits from Faster Than Flash. 


youth fair and livestock show

Enjoy Exhibitions and Meet the Next Generation of Farmers Alachua County Youth Fair and Livestock Show
Friday, March 1 – Tuesday, March 5 | Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center
23100 W Newberry Rd., Newberry, FL 32669

The annual Alachua County Youth Fair and Livestock Show features over 300 Alachua County 4-H and FFA youth aged 8-18, showing their animals and skills. Food trucks will be onsite.

The fair is an educational platform for the youth in Alachua County interested in agriculture.
View the complete schedule of events (pdf). Admission is free.


live and local

Singer-Songwriter Noah Moses Kicks Off the Live and Local Concert Series
Friday, March 1, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Bo Diddley Plaza

Downtown Gainesville

Bring your friends and family, bring dinner, and come see Gainesville’s newest and hottest music at Bo Diddley Plaza. The March Live and Local Concert Series features a month of free concerts showcasing local acts and kicks off with great tunes by Noah Moses. Noah is deeply inspired by the 70’s styles of music, along with modern folk bands like Mumford and Sons. His music is said to be raw and honest letting the human condition shine through in his songs. The Live and Local Concert Series continues each Friday in March. Admission is free.


plowing up the past

See Old Tractors and Vintage Farm Equipment in Action at Plowing Up the Past
Friday, March 1 – Saturday, March 2, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Dudley Farm Historic State Park

18730 W Newberry Rd., Gainesville, FL 32669

Join Dudley Farm and see how fields were plowed for the spring plantings. See different types of field plows and antique tractors. These antique tractors are a display of farming equipment and a way of life circa 1930s and 1940s, a reflection of rural American history. Observe, as participants work the land plowing and discing. Volunteers in period clothing demonste period crafts and interpret the farm’s history.


swampcon

Celebrate Fandom with a Weekend of Magic and Family Friendly Fun at Swampcon: Cirque Du Gator
Saturday, March 2 – Sunday, March 3, 10:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. | UF Reitz Union

686 Museum Rd., Gainesville, FL 32603

Presented by the UF Anime Club, Swampcon celebrates Japanese arts and fashion, gaming, pop culture, cosplay, and performance arts across fandoms. Admission is free, RSVP online.


njcaa indoor track and field

See Elite Athletes Compete at the 2024 NJCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships
Friday, March 1 – Saturday, March 2 | Alachua County Sports and Events Center

4870 Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608

Feel the thrill of watching top track athletes compete at the two-day National Junior College Athletic Association Indoor Track and Field Championships. This event is being held in Alachua County for the first time at the newly developed state-of-the-art indoor banked track at the Alachua County Sports and Events Center at Celebration Pointe. Single day and weekend passes are available online. Free admission for kids under the age of 5.


tedx gainesville

Be Inspired by Stories from Community Leaders at TEDxGainesville
Saturday, March 2, 5:30 p.m. | Hippodrome Theatre

25 SE 2nd Pl., Gainesville, FL 32601

TEDxGainesville highlights local individuals and stories to open minds and transform the Greater Gainesville community. Hear from leaders in education, computer engineering, poetry and spoken word, human emotion and more. 
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County


step afrika

Be Captivated by the Energy and Percussive Footwork of Step Afrika!
Tuesday, March 5, 7:30 p.m. | UF Phillips Center

3201 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611

Step Afrika! is dedicated to the tradition of stepping, blending percussive styles practiced by historically African American fraternities and sororities, and traditional African and contemporary dance into a compelling experience. Much more than just movement, they integrate songs, storytelling, humor, and audience participation. 


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Pop-Up Markets and Retail Shopping

Grove Galleria Pop-Up Market at Flashbacks Recycled Fashions
Saturday, March 2, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.

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


Events & Festivals

UF Center for Arts, Migration and Entrepreneurship 2024 Migration in Film Series: The Citizen at Hippodrome Cinema
Thursday, February 29, 6 p.m.

Newberry First Fridays Movie in the Park: Brave at Barry Park
Friday, March 1, 6:30 p.m.

cars and coffee

Gainesville Cars and Coffee at Tioga Town Center
Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.

My Withered Legs and Other Essays Book Launch with Sandra Gail Lambert at Matheson History Museum
Sunday, March 3, 2 p.m.

Organ Concert with James O’Donnell at First Presbyterian Church
Sunday, March 3, 4 p.m.

UF Center for Arts, Migration and Entrepreneurship 2024 Migration in Film Series: Everything, Everywhere, all at Once at Hippodrome Cinema
Monday, March 4, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Twice the Trouble Book Launch with Ash Clifton at Alachua County Library District Headquarters
Tuesday, March 5, 6 p.m.


Music & Performance

Singer-Songwriter Barry Sides at Bingo Deli and Pub
Friday, March 1, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Classic Rock with Couch Messiahs at One Love Café
Friday, March 1, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Rock with The Stews at High Dive
Friday, March 1, 8 p.m.

Rock with Palomino Blond at Loosey’s Downtown
Friday, March 1, 8 p.m.

Alt-Rock with David Singley at Lightnin’ Salvage
Saturday, March 2, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Rock with Whiskey Jones at One Love Café
Saturday, March 2, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

“A Sweet Taste of Broadway” with Gainesville Youth Chorus at Glen Springs Auditorium
Saturday, March 2, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Gainesville Master Chorale and Orchestra with UF Choral Union Present Puccini’s Messa di Gloria and Vivaldi’s Bassoon Concerto La Notte at University Auditorium
Saturday, March 2, 7:20 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Lyrics for Live, an Evening of Making Music Matter with Sister Hazel and Pat Monahan at UF Phillips Center
Saturday, March 2, 8 p.m.

Electronic Music with Acraze at Vivid Music Hall
Saturday, March 2, 9 p.m.

UF Chinese Ensemble at The Historic Thomas Center
Sunday, March 3, 2 p.m.

Organ Concert with Jerry O’Connell at First Presbyterian Church
Sunday, March 3, 4 p.m.

The Hogtown Rounders Writers Round at Lightnin’ Salvage
Tuesday, March 5, 6 p.m. – 9 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

With a lineup of award-winning craft beer makers, The Sippin’ Seven Alachua County Ale Trail breweries are the ultimate hangout spots to sip, socialize, and maybe even spark a little friendly rivalry. So, after a day of gallivanting around, why not kick back like a local with a taste of the AC brew scene. 

Leap Day and Live Music with The Imbeciles at Blackadder Brewing Company
Thursday, February 29, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

swamp fest 16

Swamp Fest: Sweet Sixteen at Swamp Head Brewery
Saturday, March 2, 12 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Birds and Brews Guided Bird Walk at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Sunday, March 3, 4:45 p.m. – 6 p.m.


U-Picks and Farmers Markets

U-Pick Strawberries at The Bryer Patch
Saturdays and Sundays through April
Please be aware strawberry picking is weather dependent; please stay up to date with the farms on Facebook and Instragram

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.

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

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

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

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

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

Alachua County 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.


Bites and Brunch

Wine Tasting at Superette
Thursday, February 29, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. 

Wine Tasting at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, February 29, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Wine Tasting at the Traveler Wine Bar
Thursday, February 29, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

(sold out) Sunday Brunch and Crepes Cooking Class at The Fat Tuscan
Sunday, March 3, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.


Sports & Fans

NHRA Southeast Division “Baby Gators” at Gainesville Raceway
Thursday, February 29 – Sunday, March 3

Premier Girls Fastpitch Show Me The Money Softball Tournament at Champions Park
Saturday, March 2 – Sunday, March 3

Chain Hawks Junior Disc Golf Tournament at Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center, Registration Required for Participants
Saturday, March 2, 9:30 a.m.

Gators Men’s Tennis vs. Texas A&M at Alfred A. Ring Tennis Complex
Friday, March 1, 5 p.m.

Gators Women’s Golf Gators Invitational at Mark Bostick Golf Course
Saturday, March 2, 8:30 a.m.

Gators Men’s Tennis vs. LSU at Alfred A. Ring Tennis Complex
Sunday, March 3, 12 p.m.

Gators Women’s Basketball Senior Day vs. Auburn at Exactech Arena
Sunday, March 3, 12 p.m.

gators baseball

Gators Baseball vs. Florida Atlantic at Condron Family Ballpark
Tuesday, March 5, 6 p.m.

Gators Men’s Basketball vs. Alabama at Exactech Arena
Tuesday, March 5, 7 p.m.

Gators Baseball vs. UCF at Condron Family Ballpark
Wednesday, March 6, 6 p.m.


Parks & Trails

Weekly Walk and Talk with Alachua Conservation Trust at Tuscawilla Preserve
Friday, February 23, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Children Can Meet Farm Animals at Barnyard Buddies at Morningside Nature Center
Wednesday, February 28, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Kids Meet Amphibians at Frogs and Friends Fridays at Morningside Nature Center
Friday, March 1, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Weekly Walk and Talk with Alachua Conservation Trust at Santa Fe River Preserve
Friday, March 1, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Living History Saturday at Morningside Nature Center
Saturday, March 2, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Free Timed 5K at Depot Park
Saturday, March 2, 7:30 a.m.

Ranger-Led Rim Ramble Hike at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park La Chua Trail
Saturday, March 2, 9:45 a.m.

Perspectives in the Parks: Exploring Native Wildflowers of North Floridaat Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Center
Sunday, March 3, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.

Ranger-Led Hike at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Sunday, March 3, 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Accessible Tram Tours at Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Ongoing, Check for Availability
Monday, March 4, 2 p.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

Life Story of Buddha (detail)

Celebrate the Harn Museum’s Newest Exhibition, Gateway to Himalayan Art with a Curator Talk, Live Music and Light Bites at Art after Dark at the Harn Museum of Art
Thursday, February 29, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Image: Life Story of Buddha (detail), Shakyamuni, Tibet; 19th century, Pigments on cloth, Rubin Museum of Art, Gift of Shelley and Donald Rubin, C2006.66.164 (HAR 157)

Opening Reception of Treasures of Africa at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Saturday, March 2, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.

matheson house

Now Open: “Weaving a Community: 30 Years of the Matheson History Museum” Exhibition Opens at the Matheson History Museum

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

3215 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611 
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.


Save The Date

NHRA Gatornationals, March 7-10

Florida Humanities Gathering in High Springs, March 15-17

Pat Metheny Dream Box Tour, March 20

Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day, March 23

Dance Alive National Ballet Presents Giselle, March 23

Strawberry Festival at The Bryer Patch, Saturday, March 23

Spring Garden Festival at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, March 23-24

Newberry Spring Festival, April 6

Party for the Planet at Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, April 6

Grassroots Motorsports $2000 Challenge, April 6-7

Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival, April 13-14

Hogtown Craft Beer Festival, April 13

Gators Football Orange and Blue Game, April 13

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.

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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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