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.
Wishing you the happiest of holidays,
– 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).
Get Ready for an Indie Music Night Outdoors Featuring Faze Wave and the Driptones, at Heartwood’s New Concert Series
Saturday, January 30, 9:30 p.m. – 12 a.m. | Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Known for their impeccable attention to sound production and for delivering high-quality, intimate performances featuring exceptional artists, Heartwood Soundstage presents the first show of their new socially distanced outdoor indie music concerts. Indie Live kicks off this Saturday, with Faze Wave, an upbeat alternative band from Jacksonville and Driptones, a rising Gainesville indie quartet. The series is co-presented by Heartwood and Swamp Records. Masks are required.
Become a Citizen Scientist Online at the FrogWatch USA Training Workshop
Thursday, January 28, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Tuesday, February 2, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Online Event with Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo
Presented in part by the Santa Fee College Teaching Zoo, FrogWatch USA is a citizen science program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) that offers an opportunity to learn local wetlands, identify frog calls and to report data. No previous frog or science background is necessary. Ages 10 and up are welcome. Pre-register for the online workshop here.
The Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo is open 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. daily. Travel the quarter-mile shaded trail and visit the diverse collection of native and exotic animals including otters, alligators, tree kangaroos and more. Learn about safety guidelines here.
Experience a Gripping Play of Survival and Transformation at the Final Weekend of Eclipsed
Now through Sunday, January 31 | Gainesville Community Playhouse
4039 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605
Their lives set on a nightmarish detour by civil war, the captive wives of a Liberian rebel officer form a hardscrabble sisterhood. With wit, compassion, and defiance, Eclipsed unearths the wreckage of war and celebrates the women who navigate and survive the most hostile of circumstances.
Eclipsed is performed live, on stage at the Gainesville Community Playhouse. Founded in 1927, GCP is one of Florida’s oldest community theatres. In 2006, the playhouse moved into their present facility, the 210-seat Vam York Theater.
Celebrate the new year and book a 2 night stay or longer to receive 21% off the best available rate. Plus enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne in Covey’s Kitchen + Cocktails. Book now through January 31, 2021. The offer is valid for travel through February 28, 2021. Blackout dates may apply.
Find the county’s most comprehensive and searchable list of area hotels and restaurants at visitgainesville.com
Learn about our lodging partner’s commitment to a safe stay for all who visit, work and live in Alachua County at Safe Stay Pledge.
Savor Local Dining Paired with Craft Beer at Table For Two Beer Dinner Featuring The TOP and Halpatter Brewing Company
Friday, January 29, 6:30 p.m. | The Wooly
20 N Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
The Wooly Event Space hosts a special four-course dinner prepared by The TOP and paired with five selections from Halpatter Brewing Company. The first course is a fitting prelude to the dining experience to follow, featuring a white bean puree with harissa and crispy prosciutto paired with O’leno Cream Ale. Reserve your seats and preview the menu here.
(Sold Out) See the #1 Ranked Gators Gymnastics Team Compete Against Missouri
Friday, January 29, 6:45 p.m. | Exactech Arena at the Stephen C. O’Connell Center
250 Gale Lemerand Dr., Gainesville, FL 32611
After a thrilling victory at Arkansas last week, the Gators strive for perfection as they host the Missouri Tigers. Remaining meets on February 19 vs. Kentucky (Link to Pink) and February 26 vs. Auburn are now sold out, catch the action on the SEC Network and ESPN+.
Follow the Yellow Brick Road on an Adventure from a Kansas Farm to the Emerald City at The Wiz
Saturday, January 30, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Legacy Park Multipurpose Center
15400 Peggy Rd., Alachua, FL 32615
The City of Alachua in partnership with the Star Center Theatre presents the critically acclaimed Off-Broadway show “The Wiz”.
Join Dorothy on a journey from a Kansas farm to the Emerald City and meet the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion. The Wiz is a modern musical retelling of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Admission is free but pre-registration is required here.
See Exotic Cars Compete at the Import Face Off
Sunday, January 31, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Gainesville Raceway
11211 N County Rd. 225, Gainesville, FL 32609
The national car show and drag racing series returns to Gainesville. Competitions include best in class, drag racing, burnouts, low car limbo and two-step.
Learn to Dance the Romantic Bachata in the Streets of Gainesville with Bachata Boulevard, Presented by Salsa in the Streets
Thursday, January 28, 8:30 p.m. – 11 p.m. | The Bull
18 SW 1st Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
Dance to Latin music with bachata, salsa and kizomba. If you don’t know how to dance or want to brush up on your steps, get there early for free dance classes from Gator Salsa Club at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Dancing is free, with drinks available from The Bull. Masks are required.
Temp Your Taste Buds with a Variety of Tasty Foods at the Original Gainesville Food Truck Rally
Saturday, January 30, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. | High Dive
210 SW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
Food trucks from across the area and beyond serve up unique, gourmet style fare at this one-of-a-kind local event. Vegetarian options available. Vendors include Crave BBQ, Monsta Lobsta, Off the Griddle, Vegan Gator and more. Inside High Dive, enjoy a free concert with local music from Thomas Allain & The Late Night Loses, The Medicine Show, J.A.C. and Ava Mothersill.
Sample Gainesville’s Best Soups at the 14th Annual Souper Fun Sunday Competition
Sunday, January 31, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. | Saint Francis Catholic Academy
4100 NW 115th Terr., Gainesville, FL 32606
Foodies get your slurp on! This year, tickets will be sold in advance for boxes containing 20 cups of different soups prepared by a local chef. Soups will be picked up at the drive-through located on Saint Francis campus. Each box includes details and information from the chef and restaurant. After tasting your soups, help determine the winner by voting online. Tickets are available here.
Watch Low Budget No Budget Remakes of Film Classics at Gainesville Cinemadrome Sweded Film Fest
Saturday, January 30, 8 p.m. | The Backyard at Boca Fiesta
232 SE 1st St., Gainesville, FL 32601
See the screening of films created for this unique film festival. Local teams of filmmakers and friends set out to create 5-minute remakes of film favorites without a budget. Classic scenes, costumes and even music are reimagined. It’s not all fun and games though, as films are recognized for coveted Cinemadrome awards. The event will also stream live on Twitch here.
Until You Can Feast and Celebrate with the Crowds Inside the Castle Walls of the Hoggetowne, Get Your Annual Dose of Medieval Magic with Hoggetowne at Home
Saturday, January 30 – Sunday, January 31, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Online Event with Hoggetowne Medieval Faire
One of Gainesville’s signature annual events, the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire returns virtually. Shop the medieval marketplace, watch demonstrations and performances and engage with a wonderful cast of characters during live shows. Admission is free. Get a preview of artisans and performances on Facebook.
For more of the timely entertainment information you love, follow us on Instagram and Facebook for daily updates and re-shares of your inspiring photos. Tag us at #whatsgoodalachuacounty.
Arts & Theatre
Actors’ Warehouse Presents The Blue Period of Milton van der Spuy, Available Online
Now through February 7
The Blue Period of Milton van der Spuy is a bittersweet tale of a would-be Renaissance man who hopes his head won’t explode before he’s able to complete his life’s work. The problem: Milton is a small man with big dreams (far more ambitious than he is talented). The play is Gentle and comically quirky, until in the end it isn’t. It invites us into the world of Milton’s family and social milieu, his views on everything from Shakespeare to Da Vinci’s flying machines to the Boy Scouts and ultimately, to his own role as deus ex machina.
Music & Performance
Rock and Blues Mike Johnson at One Love Cafe
Thursday, January 28, 6 p.m.
The Barstool Prophets on the Patio at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Friday, January 29, 6 p.m.
Tim McGraw Tribute Show at Knockin’ Boots Saloon
Friday, January 29, 8 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Soul, R&B, Jazz, Funk and Pop Hits with Fast Lane at One Love Cafe
Friday, January 29, 6 p.m.
Local Hip-Hop Showcase at High Dive
Friday, January 29, 9 p.m.
Classic Rock with 4PLAY at Mother’s Pub & Grill North Gainesville
Friday, January 29, 9 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Rock and Blues with Whiskey Jones Rocks at One Love Cafe
Saturday, January 30, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Rock and Blues with Cassie Evans at Lightnin’ Salvage
Saturday, January 30, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Classic Rock and Country Covers with Doc Adams Band on the Patio at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Saturday, January 30, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Motown, Classic Rock, Blues, Jazz and Swing Raftus with the Melrose Horns at One Love Cafe
Sunday, January 31, 11 a.m.
Smooth Rock with LD50 on the Patio at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Sunday, January 31, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Craft Breweries
Stitch and Sip at High Springs Brewing Company
Thursday, January 28, 6 p.m.
Rock and Blues with Cassie Evans at High Springs Brewing Company
Friday, January 29, 7 p.m.
Salsero Saturdays at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Saturday, January 30, 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Brainaholics Trivia at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Tuesday, February 2, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 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
Thursdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
High Springs Farmer’s Market
Fridays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Newberry Farmer’s Market
Saturdays, 8 a.m. – 12 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
Wine Tasting at Downtown Wine and Cheese
Thursday, January 28, 6:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Tiramisu Dessert Cooking Class at the Fat Tuscan
Wednesday, February 3, 11 a.m. – 1 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. Pictured above: rapini pizza from Pleasant Street Pizza.
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
Gators Men’s Basketball vs. South Carolina
Wednesday, February 3, 6:30 p.m.
Mountain Bike Rides with Goodbike
Tuesday, January February 2, 7 p.m., Brisk Pace for the Advanced Rider
Parks & Trails
Trek Through Trails: Top 5 Family-Friendly and Dog-Friendly 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
Winter Show at Mott-May Gallery
Now through March 28
Florida Museum NEA Big Read Children’s Book Meetup: Evelyn the Adventurous Entomologist
Saturday, January 30, 11 a.m.
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 Virtually 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
Open Friday-Sunday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Solo Exhibition by Ashley Ortiz-Diaz “Anyway, I love you and I wish you weren’t dead” at Good News Arts
Open Wednesdays-Saturdays, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Spark Dialog with the “Lights of Conversation” Outdoor Illuminated Poetry Verse Exhibit at the Matheson History Museum
On display daily
Save The Date
High Springs Playhouse Presents Barefoot in the Park, February 5
Black History Month Streaming Concert Series, February 12, 19 and 26
Valentine’s Day Beer and Cookie Pairing at Swamp Head Brewery, February 13
Heartwood Soundstage Music Festival V, February 27
NHRA Amalie Oil Gatornationals, March 11-14
March, April and May Outdoor Concert Series at Legacy Park Amphitheater, March 19-21
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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