We are proud to live in this mindful, resourceful and resilient community, and to share with you all that we have to offer. Read on for more of 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, masks or face coverings are required when social distancing is not possible. 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).
Feel that Good Outdoor Music Energy with Fresh Alt-Rock from Glass House Pointe and Vibey Tunes from Laney Trip at Indie Live
Saturday, March 27, 9:30 p.m. | Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Swamp Records and Heartwood Soundstage present a socially distanced concert from the stage on the Heartwood lawn. Glass House Point presents an all-new set with six new songs. General admission tickets and limited seating tickets available online. Masks are required.
Ticket Giveaway Alert: Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation is the Cat’s Meow! Don’t miss your chance for FREE TICKETS to an unforgettable Easter Wildlife Tour
Carson Springs Wildlife Conservation Foundation is located on 275 acres of lush Florida woods and farmland. It’s home to approximately 30 rare and endangered species and over 100 animals. The personality-filled residents have made Carson Springs top-ranked on Trip Advisor and a 2020 Traveler’s Choice. Learn more at CarsonSpringsWildlife.org,
Enter to win free admission for two to the Saturday, April 3 tour by emailing info@visitgainesville.com with the subject line “Carson Springs” and the animal you are most excited to see. Entries accepted through 9 a.m. on Monday, March 29. Five winners will be randomly selected and notified by email on Tuesday, March 30.
Depart from The AUK Market and Explore the City on a Guided Bicycle Tour with History Bike Gainesville
Saturday, March 27, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. | The AUK Market
2031 NW 6th St., Gainesville, FL 32609
Meet at the AUK Market and embark on a history tour of NW 6th Street in Gainesville, between 23rd Avenue and University Avenue. Discover historic landmarks, sites of lost industry, and sites of continued controversy as you ride the streets and sidewalks of this section of Northwest Gainesville. Bring water, a helmet and your mask. After the ride enjoy exploring Auk Market and the food and refreshments at Curia on the Drag.
Rock into the Weekend at Playlist at the Pointe with the Hogtown Slayers
Friday, March 26, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Celebration Pointe
4949 Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
Cap Smith leads the Hogtown Slayers, a dynamic five-piece classic rock and blues band. The Hogtown Slayers are known for their crowd-pleasing and high-energy stage performances. Pull up a chair or throw down a blanket and enjoy the music as the sun sets. Food, beverages and sweet treats available from Celebration Pointe restaurants.
Plan Your Savecation. Hit the Road for a Mini Escape with Help from Hilton’s Gas and Go Promo
With so many outdoor, affordable and family-friendly activities to choose from, Alachua County is a sure-fire crowd-pleaser for a Spring Break or spring fever road-trip getaway. With 7 exits along I-75, getting here is easy! Enjoy world-class performing arts, museums, and a vibrant live music scene. Explore 8 state parks and more than 100 miles of trails for biking, birding and hiking or paddle down the Santa Fe River to crystal-blue freshwater springs. Take a walk on the wild side with a Carson Springs Wildlife safari or with guided strolls at Sweetwater Wetlands Park and Kanapaha Botanical Gardens.
After an action-packed day, book a relaxing night at the Hilton Garden Inn Gainesville. Receive a complimentary breakfast and a $20 Gas Card with their Gas and Go package located by scrolling down to the package deal section after you select your dates and room.
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.
Taste Foods from Around the World at the 3rd Annual International Food Truck Rally
Sunday, March 28, 3 p.m. – 8 p.m. | GNV Streetery Park, Downtown Gainesville
SW 1st Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
MA Latin Entertainment and the City of Gainesville host a day of diverse foods and entertainment with over 19 food trucks. International flavors include La Maracucha Food Truck, Ahar Twisted Tikka, Eim Thai, Lulu’s Gelato and more. Tables and chairs provided for attendees to spread out and enjoy the day.
Follow the Light of the Full Moon on an Evening Paddle Tour of the Santa Fe River
Saturday, March 27, 8:15 p.m. – 11:15 p.m. | Santa Fe Canoe Outpost
21410 NW US Hwy 441, High Springs, FL 32643
The full moon in March, signals the beginning of the spring season. The tour includes a two-person canoe or double kayak, safety equipment and transportation. Reservations are required.
Make it a Funky Friday with Live Music from Tamayo, Slow Ocean and The Good Voodoo
Friday, March 26, 8 p.m. | High Dive
210 SW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
High Dive presents and night of live local music with a rock, folk, electronica and psychedelic jam. Limited in-person tickets are available here. The show will also be livestreamed, with access provided on a “pay what you want” scale here.
High Dive was named #74 of “100 Greatest American Music Venues” by Consequence of Sound.
Celebrate 13 Years of Beers with Swamp Head Brewery
Saturday, March 27, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. | Swamp Head Brewery
3650 SW 42nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
Back in 2008, iPhones were starting to get into people’s hands and the first films of the Marvel Cinematic Universe premiered. It was also the first year for Swamp Head Brewery. To celebrate and reminisce, the brewers put together exclusive bundles with a 12-pack of anniversary beers and two anniversary glasses. Online sales begin Saturday at 10 a.m. with drive-thru pickup available until 10 p.m. Stay tuned to the Facebook page for the latest updates.
Get Festive and Savor Diverse Foods with Live Music and Family-Friendly Fun at the Grove Street Food Truck Festival
Wednesday, March 31, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Corner of NW 4th Ave. and 10th St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Visit the historic Grove Street Neighborhood for a mid-week festival benefiting Bread of the Mighty Food Bank. Visit over 10 food trucks, including Big Lee’s BBQ, Wild Man Foods, Soul Spice and Tropical Sno Hawaiian. Participating neighborhood businesses include Cypress & Grove Brewing Company, Goodbike, Serpentine Plants + Provisions, Samurai Skate Shop and more. The festival is kid-friendly with inflatable slide, sidewalk chalk and more. Pets on leashes welcomed.
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
Dance Theatre of Santa Fe Presents Elements of Style Online Streaming Dance Performance
Friday, March 26 – Saturday, March 27
UF School of Theatre + Dance Presents Dance 2021: orbits – apogees – episodes Online Streaming Dance Performance
Friday, March 26 – Sunday, March 28
Where the Sidewalk Ends: Family Arts Festival at Thornebrook Village
Saturday, March 27, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Stroll through Thornebrook Village to visit youth artists, family-friendly organizations, and enjoy live music, art activities and demonstrations, kid’s activities and more. Admission is free.
Chime In and Laugh Out Loud at Stream of Consciousness: Live Improv with the Hippodrome Theatre
Saturday, March 27, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Children’s book discussion by Florida Museum and Alachua County Library District
Saturday, March 27, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Free Flow Art Class at Mai Kai Kava
Tuesday, March 30, 7 p.m.
Sunshine State Book Festival Online with Keynote Speakers Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal, Coauthors of the NAACP Image Award Nominated I’m Not Dying with You Tonight
Now through June 30
Pop-Up Markets
Pop Up Market at Flashbacks Recycled Fashions
Saturday, March 27, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
South Moon Market in Cross Creek
Saturday, March 27, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Music & Performance
Rock and Blues with Mike Johnson at One Love Cafe
Thursday, March 25, 6 p.m.
Country and Rock with Rusty Wilmot at Mother’s Pub & Grill North Gainesville
Thursday, March 25, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Comedy Show and Open Mic at Flaco’s
Thursday, March 25, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Classic Rock with Crooked Counsel at One Love Cafe
Friday, March 26, 6 p.m.
Classic Rock and Americana with Aunt Jackie Live on The Patio at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Friday, March 26, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Country Music with Noah Alan & Brennan Burns 2021 Road Show at the Pink Flamingo Diner
Friday, March 26, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Singer, Songwriter George Gomez at One Love Cafe
Saturday, March 27, 12 p.m.
Rock Music with Whiskey Jones at One Love Cafe
Saturday, March 27, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Classic Rock and Americana with Crooked Counsel at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Saturday, March 27, 6 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Jam Band Rock with Whale Feral, The Late Night Losers, Pose Norma at High Dive
Saturday, March 27, 8 p.m.
Acoustic Guitarist Extraordinaire Richy Stano at One Love Café
Sunday, March 28, 11 a.m.
Country Music with Scotty Lee William at Mother’s Pub & Grill North Gainesville
Saturday, March 28, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Gainesville Jazz Collection at One Love Cafe
Sunday, March 28, 5 p.m.
Americana and Folk Duo Bohemian Sunshine at The Bull
Sunday, March 28, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Country Music with Jamie Davis at Woodyard Grill
Wednesday, March 31, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Country Music with Justin Lee Partin at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Wednesday, March 31, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Craft Breweries
Pictured above: Cave Dive #7 from First Magnitude Brewing Company, a White Wine Barrel-aged Saison with Brettanomyces (type of yeast that produces a beer with a drier finish and extremely complex yeast character)
Open Mic Night at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Thursday, March 25, 6 p.m.
Create Your Own Farmhouse Step Stool with DIY Wood Signs at Island Grove Wine Tasting House
Friday, March 26, 6:30 p.m.
Miami Nights Takeover at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Friday, March 26, 8 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Drag Brunch at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Sunday, March 28, 12:30 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Beer Bingo Tuesdays at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Tuesday, March 30, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Brainaholics Trivia at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Tuesday, March 30, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Cornhole Tournament at High Springs Brewing Company
Wednesday, 6:30 p.m.
Team Trivia at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Wednesday, March 31, 6 p.m.
U-Picks & Farmer’s Markets
Organic Strawberry and Food Market at Frog Song Organics
Sunday, March 28, 2 p.m.
Easter Egg Hunt at Roger’s Farm
Sunday, March 28, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Let the kiddos search for Easter eggs next to the strawberry fields.
U-Pick Strawberries at Roger’s Farm (check their Facebook for latest updates)
Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., Sunday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Cypress & Grove Farmer’s Market
Mondays, 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, March 25
(sold out) Pasta Making Cooking Class at The Fat Tuscan
Thursday, March 25, 6 p.m.
Dine at Local Restaurants, Enjoy Outdoor Seating or Grab a Meal To-Go
Dine-in or take advantage of additional outdoor seating expanded onto sidewalks like “Streetery GNV” in downtown Gainesville.
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
Funtastic Fridays at Easton Newberry Archery Center
Friday, March 26, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Friday Night Street Legal Madness at Gainesville Raceway
Friday, March 26, 6 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Car Show and Drag Racing at “Racewars” at Gainesville Raceway
Saturday, March 27
Mud Racing Mega Trucks at Waldo Motorsports
Saturday, March 27
USSSA Super Regional Baseball Tournament at Champions Park
Saturday, March 27 – Sunday, March 28
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
Florida Landmarks and Scenic Coastlines are Depicted Across Nearly 170 Paintings, Watercolors and Drawings at “A Florida Legacy: Gift of Samuel H. and Roberta T. Vickers” at the Harn Museum of Art
Open Tuesday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday, 1 p.m – 5 p.m.
Master of Fine Arts Candidates Exhibition I at University Galleries
Now through April 2, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Works Created During the Pandemic at Art in Isolation at GFAA Gallery
Open Tuesday – Friday 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Spring Showcase at Firehouse Gallery
Open Thursday – Friday, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Diaristic Explorations at Good News Arts
Open Wednesday – Saturday, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. or by appointment
See Live Animals in the Survival of the Slowest Exhibit at the Florida Museum
Open Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Winter Show at Mott-May Gallery
Now through March 28
Spark Wonder at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
Open Friday-Sunday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Save The Date
Reopening of Matheson History Museum, April 2
Hallelujah Girls at High Springs Playhouse, April 2-25
Easter Tour at Carson Springs Wildlife, April 3
Fun Home at Gainesville Community Playhouse, April 8-25
44th Annual Pioneer Days Festival, April 24-25
Top Golf Live at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, April 22-25
40th Birthday Party for “Henry” the Indian Rhino at Carson Springs Wildlife, May 14
Cool Cars Under the Starsat Waldo City Square, May 22
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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