Be safe and be well,
– Your partners at Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Be Informed.
The below information was accurate at the time of publishing. Due to the current fluctuating environment, please contact organizers directly to double check details.
Individual business in Alachua County may have masking and distancing requirements at their private establishments. We encourage you to become familiar with businesses, venues and attractions you intend to visit and to reach out directly to these establishments should you have questions regarding their current public health and safety procedures.
Celebrate the Power of Travel on National Travel and Tourism Week
Friday, May 7 | Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
33 N Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Stop by and see us on Friday as we celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week. Back by popular demand, we’re giving away What’s Good t-shirts. Spin the prize wheel and win attraction tickets, custom stickers and other giveaways. Pictured above: visitors from Poland we last met in 2019.
Pick Bright Blooming Sunflowers for Mother’s Day at Roger’s Farm
Saturday, May 8 | Roger’s Farm
3831 NW 156th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32609
The U-Pick Sunflowers and Market for Mothers opens up for a unique experience for Mother’s Day. Collect sunflowers and find last-minute gifts from a variety of craft vendors including clothing boutiques, sweet shops, custom charcuterie picnic boxes, handmade candles & soaps and more . Kids can enjoy a bubble machine, train rides, pet feeding and more. There is an entry fee of $5 per person. Children 2 and under can participate free of charge.
Relax Into the Weekend at Jazz on the Green with Olympian-Turned Musician Marty Liquori and his Jazztet
Saturday, May 8, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Celebration Pointe
4949 Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
This Saturday, grab your partners in fun, spread a blanket under the setting sun, and catch live music on the outdoor stage with classic jazz stylings by the Marty Liquori Jazztet. There was a time when the world knew Marty Liquori for being able to zip around a track faster than just about any other human. Today, Liquori is also known for his straight-ahead jazz guitar and gypsy jazz guitar stylings, as he has become a mainstay of the Gainesville and North Central Florida Jazz scene.
Enjoy food and drinks from nearby restaurants and while you are there get a peek at the outside of Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille, opening this summer.
Unwind with Chill Weekend Vibes at Indie Live with Royce Lovett and Faith & Majesty
Saturday, May 8, 9:30 p.m. | Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Heartwood Soundstage and Swamp Records present a night of indie music from the outdoor stage. The final show in the Indie Live concert series features Royce Lovett, a a talented lyrist and contestant on The Voice whose style is rooted in hip-hop, soul and rock guitar, paired with honest and spellbinding sound of sisters Faith & Majesty, a singer songwriter folk duo and Gainesville gem.
Calling all Florida Residents! Book a getaway to the Gainesville Drury Inn & Suites and save 10% with their Florida Love offer. Simply click the link or call 1-800-378-7946 and ask for the FLORIDA LOVE rate.
As summer approaches and schools let out, many Florida residents will make plans for recreation and visiting family and friends while still maintaining a focus on health and safety. The Gainesville Drury Inn & Suites is conveniently located off of I-75 and across from Butler Town Center and Celebration Pointe, a walkable destination close to 150+ dining, retail and entertainment establishments. And just minutes from area attractions like Dave & Buster’s, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, Florida Museum of Natural History & Butterfly Rainforest, and more. With a large outdoor swimming pool, a 24 Hr. fitness facility, a free hot breakfast and evening snacks and multiple free amenities, your room at the Drury can be the perfect headquarters for a trip to reconnect with loved ones, an escape from the everyday or a full on vacation adventure in Gainesville!
When you are able and ready to travel again, The Drury wants you to Travel Happy ®! The Drury is part of 36 area hotels that have signed the Visit Gainesville Alachua County Safe Stay Pledge, and leads the way in safety, cleanliness and guest satisfaction with their own Safe + Clean promise to guests and as a recipient of the J.D. Power Highest in Guest Satisfaction award a record setting 15 consecutive years in a row.
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.
See Arrows Fly as Archers from Around the World Aim for the Bullseye at the 12th Annual Easton Foundations Gator Cup
Friday, May 7 – Sunday, May 9 | Easton Newberry Archery Center
24880 NW 16 Ave., Newberry, FL 32669
The Gator Cup is a United States Archery Team qualifier. Competing archers include World Champions and Olympic medalists. Practice begins on Friday with qualifications on Saturday, with eliminations and gold medal matches on Sunday. General admission for spectators is free. Reservations are available for premium spectator seating.
Browse One-of-a-Kind Gifts at Artisans’ Guild Mother’s Day Art Market
Saturday, May 8, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Artisans’ Guild Gallery
224 NW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
May is shaping up to be A-May-Zing! Artisans’ Guild’s Second Saturday Art Market features extra work in the Gallery for Mother’s Day, a great group of artists displaying in the backyard and on the porch, Sweet Berries – one of the best food booths around – and live music from three musical acts.
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Treats Moms to an Inspiring and Relaxing Day Among Spring Blooms for Mother’s Day
Sunday, May 9, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
4700 SW 58th Dr., Gainesville, FL 32608
What a treat! Kanapaha Botanical Gardens has free admission for moms on Mother’s Day. Bring mom, and maybe a camera, a picnic, good walking shoes and a hat for a gorgeous spring stroll through the gardens. View photos, download a map and learn more about the collections at kanapaha.org.
Celebrate Mom with an Uplifting Performance by the Talented Young Dancers from Next Generation
Sunday, May 9, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. | Gainesville Woman’s Club
2809 W University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32607
Dance Alive National Ballet and Pofahl Dance Studios present the annual concert celebrating the joy of Mother’s Day featuring the roster of talented young dancers from Next Generation. The 2 p.m. performance is perfect after brunch, or enjoy the 4 p.m. concert before dinner.
Make a Splash at Kulaqua River Ranch Water Park Community Day
Sunday, May 9, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Kulaqua River Ranch
23400 NW 212th Ave., High Springs, FL 32643
Beat the heat and squeeze in a day of fun at a unique area water park. Traditionally only open to private parties, on community days, the Kulaqua River Ranch Water Park is open to the public for a day of fun. Cruise down the lazy river, descend the huge water slide and float in the wave pool.
Get Outside and See Wildlife on a Ranger-Led Tour at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Sunday, May 9, 4:30 p.m. | Sweetwater Wetlands Park
325 SE Williston Rd., Gainesville, FL 32641
The picturesque Sweetwater Wetlands Park consists of more than 125 acres of wetlands and ponds, and was created to support the water quality of wetlands in Paynes Prairie. The guided tour is free with general park admission fee. Participants must pre-register for the tour through Eventbrite on a first come first serve basis. Guests not registered cannot participate. Recent bird sightings include the Northern Harrier, Chimney Swift, Wood Duck and of course the baby Sandhill Crane “colts.” Keep an eye out for alligators, wild horses, snapping turtles, marsh rabbits and more on the hour-long guided hike.
The Free Fridays Concert Series Returns with Covers and Originals by Jake Thistle Live on Facebook
Friday, May 7, 8 p.m. | Online Event with Free Fridays Concert Series
With over 700 songs in his repertoire (including his own originals), Jake will take fan requests in real time plus play his favorite tunes from Tom Petty, Jackson Browne, John Hiatt, Bruce Springsteen and more. Live in-person concerts return to the stage at Bo Diddley Plaza on June 4. Gainesville’s longest running concert series features a fully booked weekly schedule through October 22. Find the upcoming schedule here.
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
Mommy and Me Painting Class at Corks and Colors
Saturday, May 8, 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Acrylic Markers Workshop with Jay Winter Collins at GFAA
Saturday, May 8, 1 p.m. – 5 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
The Swamp Market at Swamp City Gallery Lounge
Saturday, May 8, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Spring Outdoor Pop-Up Market at The AUK Market
Saturday, May 8, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Music & Performance
Country Rock with Scotty Lee Williams at Mother’s Pub & Grill North
Thursday, May 6, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Country Music with Noah Hunton at the Pink Flamingo Diner
Friday, May 7, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Groove and Funk with Chillula at Mother’s Pub & Grill North Gainesville
Friday, May 7, 9 p.m.
Classic Rock with CenterLane at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Friday, May 7, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Pop and Rock Covers with the Barstool Prophets at One Love Cafe
Saturday, May 8, 6 p.m.
Classic Rock with Southern Burn at Mother’s Pub & Grill North Gainesville
Saturday, May 8, 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Covers and More Live with Michael Bowman at Mother’s Pub & Grill North
Sunday, May 9, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Old School Live R&B Music Sundays on the Patio at The Bay
Sunday, May 9, 4 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Craft Breweries
Country Music with Clay Brooker at High Springs Brewery
Thursday, May 6, 7 p.m.
MexiCocina Food Truck and Classic Rock with Crooked Counsel at High Springs Brewing Company
Friday, May 7, 7 p.m.
The Office Trivia Night at Blackadder Brewing Company
Saturday, May 8, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Clean Slate Band at High Springs Brewery
Saturday, May 8, 7 p.m.
Mom-osa Sunday at Blackadder Brewing Company
Sunday, May 9, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Blackadder Brewing Company Celebrates American Craft Beer Week with Special Beer Taps and Giveaways
Monday, May 10 – Sunday, May 16
Beer Yoga with Kori Brooks at High Springs Brewing Company
Monday, May 10, 6 p.m.
Beer Bingo Tuesdays at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Tuesday, May 11, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Cornhole Tourney at High Springs Brewing Company
Wednesday, May 12, 6:30 p.m.
Team Trivia at Big Top Brewing Company Gainesville
Wednesday, May 12, 6 p.m.
U-Picks & Farmer’s Markets
Final Weekend: U-Pick Strawberries at Roger’s Farm
Now through Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
U-Pick Blueberries at Aunt Zelma’s Blueberries (Check Facebook for Updates)
Open Daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
U-Pick Blueberries at Wacahoota Farms
Thursday, April 29 – Sunday, May 2, 9 a.m. – 6 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, April 6, 6:15 p.m.
Mother’s Day Menu at Uppercrust
Friday, May 7 – Sunday, May 9
English Garden Tea at Haile Village Bistro
Saturday, May 8, 11 a.m.
Mother’s Day Brunch at Sweetwater Branch Inn
Sunday, May 9, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at Tosh Kitchen
Sunday, May 9, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mimosas for Mom at Covey Kitchen + Cocktails
Sunday, May 9 , 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mother’s Day Drag Bruch at Curia On The Drag
Sunday, May 9, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Mother’s Day Menu at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Sunday, May 9, 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.
(sold out) Mother’s Day Brunch Cooking Class at The Fat Tuscan
Sunday, May 9, 11 a.m. – 3 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 “GNV Commons” 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
2021 AAC Women’s Lacrosse Championship Semifinals Gators Lacrosse vs. Cincinnati
Thursday, May 6, 4:30 p.m.
Gators Softball vs. Texas A&M
Friday, May 7, 6 p.m., Saturday, May 8, 4 p.m., Sunday, May 9, 12 p.m.
Sunshine State Games: Basketball
Friday May 7 – Sunday, May 9
Summit Series Bracket Drag Racing at Gainesville Raceway
Saturday, May 8 – Sunday, May 9
Gainesville Cars & Coffee at Butler Town Center
Sunday, May 9, 9 a.m.
Parks & Trails
Now open: Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park Boardwalk
Walk down the 120-foot sinkhole into a miniature rainforest. Well behaved leashed dogs are welcome.
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
Free Sunset Paddleboard Meetup with Cypress SUP at Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park
Friday, May 7, 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
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
Tot Time at Home: Mix It Up! with Harn Museum of Art
Friday, May 7
The Great Migration Photography Exhibition at 4Most Gallery
Now through May 14, 6 p.m.
“Desire” Exhibition at GFAA Gallery
Now through Saturday, May 22Open Tuesday – Friday, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Trailblazers: 150 Years of Alachua County Women at the Matheson History Museum
Open Fridays-Saturday, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
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.
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.
Spark Wonder at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
Open Friday-Sunday, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Spring Showcase at Firehouse Gallery
Open Thursday – Friday, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., Saturday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Save The Date
40th Birthday Party for “Henry” the Indian Rhino at Carson Springs Wildlife, May 15
Newberry Watermelon Festival, May 15
2021 Master Gardener Plant Sale, May 15
Cool Cars Under the Starsat Waldo City Square, May 22
Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza, June 4
Legacy Park Concert Series, June 5
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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