Events in Gainesville, FL

This 45-minute, non-heated class blends yoga poses with weights and resistance bands for an added challenge. Isolated movements and playlists help connect breath with movement, all in a room averaging 78 degrees.

Take the mic and choose from a wide-open song list, whether you’re singing a classic, performing a duet, or dedicating a song to someone. Between turns, enjoy hundreds of vintage and modern arcade and pinball games, along with a broad selection of food and drinks.

Enjoy an evening of social dancing with instruction in Argentine Tango, West Coast Swing, and Waltz and Ballroom. Each session combines a little instruction with plenty of time to dance, with lessons spread throughout the hour. No partner is needed. Beginners can attend Argentine Tango and Waltz, which introduce the basics through walking. West Coast Swing participants should already know the basic footwork. The approach emphasizes gentle dancing and learning the principles of leading and following. The cost is $10 per night, and arrangements are available for those who need financial assistance.

This gathering features incarcerated individuals expressing themselves through poetry, including work they have written and other poems that hold sentimental meaning during incarceration, probation, or parole.

Adults aged 18 and up are welcome to explore and learn improv at this free weekly gathering. Enjoy a playful opportunity to have fun and take part in a community-minded experience.

Enjoy a trivia night with four prizes for four winners each week and the chance to earn bragging rights. Kids eat free.

Enjoy free, weekly team trivia hosted by Trivia Nation at Players Locker Room - Hendricks. The general knowledge questions are designed for everyone from 8 to 80, with a format similar to Jeopardy! or Trivial Pursuit. Play with friends, coworkers, or family, or meet others and join a team. Each week, $100 in prizes is up for grabs.

Enjoy a night of karaoke.

Enjoy free, team-based general knowledge trivia hosted by Trivia Nation at Casbah Cafe. The questions cover a range of topics and are designed for players of all ages. Play with friends, coworkers, or family, or connect with others to form a team. Each week, $100 in prizes is up for grabs.

Explore the joy of transforming small items into one-of-a-kind pieces in a hands-on Annie Sloan Chalk Paint workshop. Learn essential techniques for smaller projects, from basic brushwork to finishing touches such as waxing and distressing. This friendly session welcomes beginners and experienced DIY enthusiasts seeking quick, rewarding results. All materials are provided, so participants can focus on creativity and leave with new skills. Water and sodas are available, and bringing a preferred beverage is welcome. The workshop typically runs 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size and scope of the project. Please note that seats are non-refundable and cannot be transferred once booked.

Learn a new line dance each week with Merrick Fleming, with time to review other dances as well. Each class costs $15.

Enjoy casual, free-to-play Union Arena matches in a beginner-friendly setting. Players are encouraged to bring a constructed or starter deck and arrange and judge their own matches. The event takes place in PunkOuter Games’ comfortable gaming space, which offers refreshments and a range of gaming items, from single cards to RPGs and miniatures.

A free, casual Battletech gathering featuring an ongoing open-world campaign designed to let players participate at their own pace and create distinctive stories and gaming experiences. Games primarily use the 350 Alpha Strike tournament variant and official Alpha Strike rules, with classic Battletech also played. The event welcomes both newcomers and returning players.

Take time to unwind after the workday with a sound bath in a tranquil salt cave. Relax in a zero-gravity chair amid the soft glow of Himalayan salt and listen to crystal singing bowls, chimes, an ocean drum, and other therapeutic instruments. The experience includes halotherapy and immersive sound therapy, and is designed for busy professionals, caregivers, healthcare workers, and anyone seeking a pause between work and the rest of the evening. Beginners are welcome. The session is facilitated by Adriana Dobbs of Serenity Sounds. This is an allergen-free environment, so please avoid fragrances and other strong scents.

Learn the basics of country swing in a beginner-friendly class with Sydney Dumke and Alex MacDonald. No prior experience or partner is needed, and everyone is welcome. The cost is $15 per class.

Enjoy free, weekly team trivia at Dick’s Wings and Grill Mandarin, with general knowledge questions designed for a wide range of ages. Play with friends, coworkers, or family, or meet others and join a team. Each week offers $100 in prizes, and a free answer of the week is available online to help you prepare.

Enjoy a night of bingo with a free first round, where the prize is house cash redeemable at Gators. Additional rounds cost $1 per card, with each round paying out to its winner. The final blackout round costs $5 per card. Ten percent of each round goes to HEAD On Youth Impact. Cash only, and players must be 18 or older.

Enjoy a free, team-based pop culture trivia game featuring questions about movies, music, and cult classics from the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. Form a team with friends or family, or join a team at the venue, and test your knowledge for a chance to win $100 in prizes.

Enjoy a trivia event presented by Imagine Entertainment.

A variety of food trucks visit Cornerstone during the lunch hour each Thursday.

Enjoy board and card games alongside food and drinks at a relaxed game night.

Explore Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in a hands-on small project workshop focused on transforming compact pieces with confidence. Learn core techniques for painting and finishing, including brushwork, waxing, and distressing, tailored to quick, satisfying projects. It is welcoming to both beginners and experienced DIY makers, and all supplies are provided. Expect the session to run about two to three hours, depending on your project. Water and sodas are available, and you are welcome to bring another beverage to enjoy while you work. Please note that registrations are non-refundable and cannot be moved to a different date.

Explore modern Bachata fusion through classes that combine sensual styling with traditional foundations in a fun, musical, and accessible setting. Beginner classes welcome first-timers, advanced beginner classes build technique, musicality, and confidence, and intermediate/advanced classes focus on more complex combinations, styling, and flow. First-time Level 3 participants should speak with the instructor for a quick level check before class. Single-class, two-class, and full-night passes are available, along with punch cards and monthly membership options. No partner is needed, and walk-ins are welcome.

Take part in a weekly Riftbound Constructed tournament featuring one-versus-one Best of 1 matches with 60-minute rounds. Entry is $10. Participants receive Nexus Night promo packs while supplies last, and 1.5 booster packs per entrant go into the prize pool. PunkOuter Games offers a comfortable gaming area, refreshments, and a selection of games and gaming supplies.

These dance sessions feature Argentine Tango, West Coast Swing or another dance, and Waltz and a dance mix or another option. Each hour includes a little instruction and plenty of dancing, with instruction distributed throughout the session. No partner is needed. Novice dancers can take part in Argentine Tango and Waltz, whose basic steps involve walking. The West Coast Swing session requires familiarity with the basic footwork. Instruction covers gentle dancing without force, pushing, or pulling, as well as the principles of leading and following.

Enjoy casual games of Warhammer 40K, Kill Team, and Age of Sigmar in a beginner-friendly, free-to-play setting. Terrain and armies are available to use from the game library. The gaming space offers a comfortable place to play, along with refreshments and a selection of games and miniatures.

Settle into deep, passive stretches with Yin Yoga while live guitar provides a calming melodic backdrop. The combination offers a grounding experience focused on easing stress, opening the body, and supporting a sense of clarity and restoration.

Explore Reiki, a gentle practice intended to ease stress, encourage relaxation, and support healing. Participants will practice sensing energy and take part in both giving and receiving Reiki. No prior experience is necessary. A $20 donation is requested.

Enjoy a free weekly team trivia game featuring general knowledge questions for players of all ages. Play with friends, coworkers, or family, or connect with others to form a team. Each week offers $100 in prizes.

Ten strangers, each hiding a murderous past, are invited to a remote island. As they are killed one by one in ways that echo the nursery rhyme “Ten Little Soldier Boys,” the mystery deepens: who is behind the murders, and why? This three-act classic by Agatha Christie is presented by the Buchholz Players as an immersive production, with audience members seated on stage to bring them close to the chilling story. Seating is limited because of the interactive nature of the experience.

Enjoy free swing dancing in an air-conditioned dance hall with hardwood floors. Beginners can start with a lesson, and no prior experience or partner is needed. Progressive lessons help dancers continue building their skills and confidence. After the lessons, a dance party offers an opportunity to practice and enjoy an evening of music and dancing in a welcoming, inclusive environment. Donations are encouraged.

Now in its 33rd year, this charity golf classic offers a day on the course in a friendly scramble format. Register as a team or sign up individually to be paired with other players. Registration takes place before play begins, followed by the round. Sponsorship opportunities are available.

Plan a cozy date night at The Bryer Patch in collaboration with Mitchell’s Specialty Meats and Bakery. Couples can savor a cooked-to-order prime steak dinner prepared over an open fire, paired with gourmet sides, a Caesar salad, desserts, and sweet tea. Guests may bring a favorite beverage. Live music by Clay Brooker sets the mood under the stars while you pick fresh flowers from the field to make a small bouquet for your table, then unwind by the fire with a homemade dessert or toast a s’more. Tickets must be purchased in advance, are limited, and are first come, first served. Each ticket is $200 per couple and includes dinner, one small field-picked bouquet per couple, and a s’more kit. Dinner is served at your own leisure. Closed toe shoes are recommended. Because this is an outdoor farm setting, be prepared for insects, dirt, wind, uneven terrain, and cooler weather. Pets are not permitted.

A Gainesville gathering honoring Tom Petty’s legacy and music, this weekend brings fans together for performances across indoor and outdoor stages at Heartwood Soundstage. The lineup includes Stan Lynch & The Speaker Wars, White Denim, Jake Thistle Band, Joe Crookston, Asydequest, Nancy Luca Band, Have Gun, Will Travel, and many more artists, with Gregg Jones as MC. All ages are welcome, and children 18 and under are free. Lawn chairs are permitted as space allows.

Good time music with no genre limits sets the tone at One Love Cafe in Gainesville, Florida. The performers cover songs simply because they love them, choosing feel-good tunes that spark dancing, inspire sing-alongs, and keep people moving to the groove.

Take part in a weekly Magic: The Gathering Pauper tournament. Pauper decks must use cards released at common rarity, with a minimum of 60 cards in the main deck and an optional sideboard of up to 15 cards. Matches are played one-on-one, best of three, in Swiss-style rounds, with the number of rounds based on attendance. Proxies are not allowed. Entry is $10, with two player-selected booster packs added to the prize pool per entry. The winner may receive a traditional foil Dark Deal promo card, and participants may receive a WPN promo pack, while supplies last.

Take part in a weekly Riftbound Constructed tournament featuring one-on-one, best-of-three matches with 60-minute rounds. Entry is $10, and participants receive Nexus Night promo packs while supplies last. One and a half booster packs per entrant are added to the prize pool. Tournament entry is limited.

Compete in a weekly Flesh & Blood Armory tournament, with formats varying throughout the month: Booster Draft on the first Friday, Classic Constructed on the second and fourth Fridays, and Silver Age on the third Friday. Entry includes two packs added to the prize pool per player, with players choosing the packs, and one GEM pack for participation. Matches are first to one, with 55-minute rounds and the number of rounds determined by attendance. The gaming space offers a comfortable place to play, along with refreshments and a selection of games and gaming supplies.

The St. Augustine live game takes place at Meizon Church in Gainesville. Please park in the rear and enter from the back of the building, and do not use the front entrance. A $5 venue fee is required, payable in cash at the door or electronically via PayPal or Cash App, and payments should be directed to Korum, not Jordan. Check in happens before the game begins, official play follows, and non STs may start soft roleplay earlier. Vaccination cards are not required, and staff encourages COVID vaccinations as a general health practice. If you feel sick, please stay home, and if you test positive after being around other players, notify those you were in contact with. Returning participants can jump back in or coordinate with staff for plot tie ins and connections with other PCs. Newcomers and those curious about OWBN are welcome to attend, speak with staff, observe, or get help starting a character sheet, with the option to reach out before or during the game. Visitors are allowed each game, and staff asks travelers to email in advance to help with headcount and to send character sheets and item lists ahead since at-the-door checks are discouraged. For communication, use staugsts@gmail.com rather than social media messaging.

The Limelight Variety Hour in Gainesville hosts a stand-up comedy open mic from Laugh Local. Performers can sign up on site before the show to take the mic. Those who prefer to watch can settle in and share laughs with Gainesville’s comedy crowd.

Celebrate the St. Johns River and the community dedicated to protecting it at an evening featuring live music by The Firewater Tent Revival, catering by Biscottis, a special tasting by Orsay, a silent auction, and plenty of oysters. The “Creature from the Black Lagoon” theme highlights the films’ connections to locations in the St. Johns River watershed. Proceeds support St. Johns RIVERKEEPER’s advocacy for a healthy river for generations to come.

Cloud 9 performs live with cover songs spanning the groove-filled ’60s through today’s hits. The evening also features food, drinks, and music for singing along with.

Enjoy a weekly silent disco in Riverside’s 5 Points area, with music available in indoor and outdoor spaces at your preferred volume. Each headset offers three color-coded channels: Green features hits and genres from more than 20 years ago, Blue plays recent and current hip-hop and pop, and Red lets you submit song requests through a hotline. Headphone rental costs $10, and the first 30 people receive complimentary rental for the night. A hand stamp allows you to come and go. The event is for ages 21 and up, with IDs checked at the door. The venue is accessible to mobility devices through the front street entrance, except for the farthest end of the back patio.

Now in its third year, this Children’s Miracle Network 5K and community celebration supports Pediatric Trauma Services at UF Health. The course circles the University of Florida and passes UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital, with partners and local supporters encouraging participants through spirited cheer zones. After the finish line, a lively bash offers entertainment, interactive activities, and engagement with community safety partners. Presented in collaboration with the Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention and Outreach team, the festivities recognize National Trauma Awareness Month. The day progresses from registration and pre-race remarks to the 5K start and opening of the bash, followed by an awards ceremony and raffle announcements before everything wraps up.

Mercedes-Benz drivers are welcome at the monthly Caffeine and Octane Jacksonville gathering. The group typically meets in the mall’s Central Lot, near the Furniture Source anchor store at the north end, though the location may vary for a featured car club or another event. Central Lot spaces are limited, and no registration is required. Vehicles parked there must remain until 10 a.m. Some food court vendors, including Chick-fil-A, open in the morning.

The Gainesville Out of the Darkness Walk brings people together to raise awareness, support one another, honor and remember loved ones, and fund efforts to protect mental health and prevent suicide.

The Main Street Fall Festival celebrates Historic Downtown Newberry’s character and community traditions. Enjoy local vendors, food trucks, live music, classic games, and local flavors in a relaxed, family-friendly gathering with a walkable downtown experience. The festival recognizes the area’s history while celebrating the present and making space for traditions to grow. Admission is free.

Stop by for a cup and a chat.

The 14th Annual STEM & Health Expo features STEM experiments, autonomous vehicle rides, bounce houses in a Fun Zone, food trucks, and health and science exhibits. Admission is free.

Play one-shot adventures in Pathfinder, D&D Adventure League, and indie role-playing games. Players ages 16 and up, from beginners to experienced gamers, are welcome. Seating at each table is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Meditation at the Sacred Earth offers an immersive experience focused on deepening spiritual and intuitive practices through shamanic practices, breath work, journeying, guided visualization, and Tibetan Buddhism. The experience is intended to strengthen connection to the Divine within. A suggested donation of $10 is noted.

Take part in a friendly poker run along the Ortega River to benefit Warrior Sailing. Participants can use a dinghy, kayak, paddle board, canoe, or another tiny vessel, collecting a playing card at each stop before completing the 1.5-mile loop. It is not a race, and participants have 90 minutes to finish. Those without a vessel can join the Land Lubber category and take part from shore. Prizes are offered for the best three poker hands, most creative vessel, and wild card winners. Registration is free, with refreshments and entry into door prizes for every participant. A $20 donation to Warrior Sailing is suggested.

Create a colorful portrait of your pet in a guided painting class for all experience levels. Work on a 12 inch square acrylic canvas that will be sketched in advance from your pet’s photo, then follow clear, step by step instruction that blends a paint by numbers method with mixing colors from the primaries. The pace is lively, beginners are supported, and experienced artists can explore a new technique. Everyone finishes with a completed piece. Tuition is $65, and all supplies are included. Complimentary coffee and water are provided. Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. Register online or in person at the gallery, or call 352-474-1049 with questions. To prepare your canvas, email a head and shoulders photo of your pet, which will be cropped to a square, to shawndelljoyce@gmail.com.

Take part in a weekly Digimon constructed tournament with a $10 entry fee. Each entry adds 1.5 booster packs to the prize pool, and tournament packs are available while supplies last. Space is limited, and checking in before the tournament begins is required to keep your spot. PunkOuter Games offers a comfortable gaming area, refreshments, and a selection of games and gaming supplies.

Take part in a weekly One Piece Constructed Tournament with limited entry. The entry fee is $10, and 1.5 booster packs per entrant go into the prize pool. Tournament packs are available while supplies last. PunkOuter Games provides a comfortable gaming space with refreshments and a selection of gaming items, including single cards, RPGs, and miniatures.

Auditions are being held for The Murder Room, a three-act mystery farce by Jack Sharkey that spoofs classic British crime thrillers. Performers should be ready to use RP or Yorkshire accents, and strong comedic timing is important. Prepare a 1 to 2 minute comedic or dramatic monologue. An online audition form is available. Casting includes Edgar Hollister, a wealthy and handsome gentleman in his early fifties who also plays Abel Howard, Mavis Hollister, his striking wife in her mid thirties, Mrs. Lottie Molloy, the longtime and sassy housekeeper in her mid sixties, James Crandall, a stoic and handsome police inspector in his mid forties, Susan Hollister, Edgar’s sweet and always-smiling daughter in her twenties, and Barry Draper, Susan’s rugged, very American fiance in his mid to late twenties. All characters except Susan and Barry will use a British accent.

Enjoy smooth music from talented performers, with a different musician featured each month. Relax on the Promenade with a drink or sweet treat.

Cold Shot Band performs rock, blues, and country music at Mother's Pub & Grill North Gainesville.

Expect an energetic, rock-fueled night designed for cutting loose and having fun.

Sweet Meat Butcher Shop in High Springs offers a full-day barbecue class focused on four meats: chicken, pork, ribs, and brisket. The session covers selecting and preparing each cut, seasoning and flavor building, fire management, cooking methods tailored to each meat, competition-style presentation, and practical tips for backyard cooks. Instruction is led by World-Class Pitmaster Bobby Gay, ranked 8th in the world in Whole Hog BBQ. Lunch is provided, and everything prepared during the class goes home with participants. Comfortable clothing and sunscreen are recommended for a full day of cooking. Suitable for beginners and experienced enthusiasts, this class is also presented as a holiday gift idea. The cost is $250 per person, and space is limited.

Enjoy a Santa photo session in the studio without long lines or a rushed experience. There will be time to take photos and tell jokes, and each session includes a small gift from Santa. If your little one is upset, the photographer can help. The setup features a white background with oversized blue and gold ornaments, gold snowflakes, and other decorations. Red, gold, or blue clothing is recommended. Packages vary by group size and number of digital photos, with options for up to 2, 4, 7, or 10 people and 5, 7, 10, or 20 digital images. Additional digital photos are available for $50 each.

Enjoy casual Magic: The Gathering Commander play in a free-to-play setting. Players are responsible for forming their own pods and managing gameplay. The Magic Companion App is preferred for recording in-store participation, but using it is not required. A clean, comfortable gaming area and a selection of refreshments, cards, role-playing games, and miniatures are available at PunkOuter Games.

Spend a casual day working on your backlogged Gunpla builds or starting a new project. Builders of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned hobbyists, are welcome. The gathering takes place at PunkOuter Games, a welcoming space with a comfortable gaming area, refreshments, and games and miniatures.

A Japanese-language lesson with activities for babies through preschoolers, including circle time or eurythmics, self-study, show and tell, radio exercises, introductions, large- and small-group lessons, snacks, and play time. Participants should bring active clothing and shoes, a show-and-tell item, water, a snack, Japanese learning materials, pencils, an eraser, a notebook, a device for writing and erasing, and toys to share. Above all, learners are encouraged to do their best to speak Japanese as much as they can.

Enjoy casual Pokémon play for all ages, with games led by a Pokémon Professor who can help with judging gameplay and card interactions. New and experienced players are welcome. Beginners can participate, though the Professor may not be able to focus exclusively on teaching. Separate learn-to-play events are scheduled for beginners. If there is enough interest, a tournament may also take place.

Take part in a weekly Gundam constructed tournament with a $10 entry fee. Each entry adds 1.5 booster packs to the prize pool, and tournament entry is limited.

Learn the basics of West Coast Swing in a beginner-friendly dance class led by Billy Ray Shaver. No experience or partner is needed, and everyone is welcome. Each class costs $10.

A judgment-free networking community where women can connect, collaborate, and contribute without a focus on self-promotion. Participants can introduce themselves, share what they do and the connections they hope to make, exchange resources and ideas, and enjoy encouraging conversations in a supportive space for growing together.

Explore gentle movement in a donation-based, trauma-sensitive yoga session centered on choice, safety, and physical awareness. The practice offers space to deepen connection with yourself and others while seeking grounding and healing. It is open to all experience levels and physical abilities. Mary Bobowiec, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and certified Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga facilitator, leads the session.

Explore Luxor Allure’s organic skincare, fragrances, and self-care essentials at the Gator Market at the University of Florida.

Many capable, responsible people keep everything running, only to find themselves depleted. This practical and engaging session explores how patterns like perfectionism, people-pleasing, overthinking, and taking on too much can quietly undermine well-being, relationships, and leadership, especially for high-achieving women. Licensed Mental Health Counselor and consultant Dina Smith shares how building self-awareness helps reveal the drivers of stress and burnout, creating space for healthier and more intentional choices. Participants can expect clear, usable insights to improve communication, establish and maintain healthier boundaries, strengthen relationships, and lead with greater clarity and resilience. Dina Smith, LMHC, is a speaker, coach, and therapist who supports individuals and organizations in growing self-awareness, improving relationships, and navigating stress and change with intention. With more than 20 years in behavioral health and over 13 years in leadership, she blends psychology, leadership, emotional intelligence, and personality frameworks such as the Enneagram. She affirms that self-awareness is a powerful tool for growth, while lasting change calls for something deeper than understanding alone and is grounded in grace.

Enjoy a relaxed evening of live local music, collaboration, and community at this open mic night hosted by Shawn Manley. Solo artists, songwriters, full bands, and anyone interested in sitting in for a jam are welcome, with all skill levels and musical styles invited. Bring an instrument and take part in an evening of music and creativity.

At P.F. Chang's Butler Town Center, a standing partnership with United Way of North Central Florida turns the third Thursday of each month into an opportunity to give back. By letting the server know the meal supports United Way, 10 percent of the order total, excluding alcohol, is donated. Dining on those Thursdays helps fund important community programs that assist local families and individuals in need.

Fans of British cars can meet at The Queens Arms in Gainesville for a relaxed social, enjoying drinks and conversation with fellow enthusiasts.

Celebrate the reopening of Rev. Gerald Criswell Park with basketball games on its newly renovated court, music and entertainment, food and refreshments, giveaways, and a ceremony honoring the park’s history and community. The renovations provide an improved place for neighborhood families to gather and play. The court’s new colors pay tribute to the A.L. Mebane High School Alumni Association, which preserves the school’s legacy, connects former students, supports future generations through scholarships, and helps preserve local history.

Blue October performs in an all-ages show. FIVE is a cashless venue, with credit and debit cards accepted at the bars, box office, and guest services. Parking near the venue is limited, and rideshare transportation is recommended.

This hands-on furniture painting workshop focuses on giving a personal piece a fresh look using Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and Wax. Participants learn how to prepare surfaces, when priming is needed, and how to choose paints for different materials. Instruction covers applying Chalk Paint for a smooth, long lasting result, techniques to add texture and highlight details, and the correct method for waxing to seal and protect the finish. Everyone works on a small item they bring, such as a chair or side table, and leaves with a completed piece plus the confidence to take on future projects. All supplies are provided, aside from the furniture item. The session typically lasts two to three hours, depending on project scope. Water and soft drinks are available, and personal beverages are welcome. Seats are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another date. Once reserved, the spot is final.

Friday nights transform into a high-energy karaoke party where anyone can take the mic. Belt out beloved tunes, keep an eye out for themed editions, and root for fellow performers as the room warms up and confidence soars after that first number. Expect plenty of food, drinks, and lively fun from start to finish. Whether you thrive on the spotlight or usually sing in the shower, the stage is open and friendly. This recurring event is scheduled on the third Friday of each month.

Florida Gators Football takes on the Vanderbilt Commodores at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Stadium gates open an hour and a half before kickoff. Express Entry registration is available for attendees. Tickets will be delivered on a scheduled release date, and they will not be available to view or manage until they are issued.

A community pet vaccine clinic takes place in the parking area of the SWAG Family Resource Center. Thanks to generous community donations, eligible residents can receive free exams, vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm tests, flea and heartworm prevention, and nail trims. Participation is limited to residents of the 32607 zip code who can show proof of income eligibility such as SSI, Food Stamps, Disability, or a HUD voucher. All pets must be spayed or neutered. Space is limited, so reserve a spot.

An art walk unfolds throughout downtown High Springs on the third Saturday of March, April, May, October, November, and December, featuring offerings from many local artists and makers along with specials from downtown businesses. The discussion section showcases previews of participating artists’ work. Participation for creators is free. Artists and makers may apply for a space by emailing downtownhighsprings@gmail.com and including a few images of their work.

Enjoy an evening of comedy featuring Allie the Goodwich, Nico, JenArchy, Rex, and Allie Owens Bubanas, hosted by Laugh Local’s Jef.

The City of Gainesville presents an outdoor movie night at Bo Diddley Plaza featuring a screening of Disney and Pixar’s Ratatouille. This free, open-to-all gathering offers a relaxed evening watching a film under the stars. The story follows Remy, a rat with big dreams of becoming a chef, who heads to Paris and secretly teams up with the inexperienced kitchen worker Linguini to cook in a bustling restaurant while staying out of sight. Their unusual collaboration sparks plenty of laughs and builds to a chance to impress a formidable food critic.

Singer-songwriter Bryan Bielanski brings a distinctive blend of rock and folk, pairing catchy songs with a style that feels familiar and fresh. With more than 2,500 performances around the world, his music has reached audiences across many countries and states.

Enjoy an eclectic mix of music spanning country, rock, soul, and more at the Promenade. The event pairs live music with food for a lively start to the weekend.

Trade the holiday crowds for a day on scenic country roads around High Springs. Although this ride is traditionally held on a Friday, scheduling changes have moved this edition to Saturday. The route departs from High Springs and strings together roads not used in other NFFGS rides, creating a 60 mile tour of North Florida. Park along Railroad Avenue just south of the brewery. After the miles, relax at High Springs Brewing Company, and grab Prohibition Pizza from across the street if you like. The route file will be available only in the GCC members area during the week before the ride. Organizers do not guarantee surface or traffic conditions, maps are shared and each rider chooses whether to participate. These are open public roads with inherent hazards, so know your skills and limits, and ride at your own risk. A daytime rear light of 50 lumens or more is recommended. Be especially considerate around horses from any direction, as everyone is a guest on these community roads and courteous passing protects you as well as the horse and rider.

Walk with a Doc is a free community walking program led by a local UF Health health care provider. Open to people of all ages and abilities, each walk offers a chance to enjoy a safe walk, learn about current health topics, and meet new people.

Satchel's Pizza hosts live music from Old Souls, with Jenu Six and Chantal Lynn bringing dive bar sounds rooted in the Appalachian Mountains. Their performance draws on a shared love of country and life on the road, shaping haunted tales and many hard won miles into song. Made for sinners and honky tonk angels who crave something genuine.

Will Hoge and David Nail perform on the indoor stage.

A pet vaccine clinic will operate in the parking area at Pine Grove Apartments, a senior housing complex. Services are open to senior and military pet owners, as well as those facing financial limitations, with verification requested through a photo ID and, when applicable, documentation from programs such as SSI, SSDI, or Food Stamps. Vaccines are offered for $22 and nail trims for $15. Additional options include exams, microchipping, heartworm testing, and flea and heartworm prevention.

Celebrate the season at a lively kids dance party featuring DJ E-Lo spinning upbeat tunes for dancing and sing-alongs. There is no admission fee and all are welcome. Food trucks will be on site with snacks and meals available for purchase.

This seated show spotlights violinist and songwriter Philip Bowen, bringing together folk, Americana, and indie rock with striking violin work for a sound that feels both classic and fresh. Recognized for high-energy performances and heartfelt writing, he has earned a dedicated following through a boundary-pushing style. Jordan Foley sets the tone with thoughtful, reflective songs delivered with a gentle touch, a natural fit for an intimate, attentive room.

Take part in a hands-on Annie Sloan Chalk Paint workshop focused on transforming small items into personalized pieces. Learn techniques suited to compact projects, from foundational brushwork to finish options such as waxing and creating an aged, distressed look. The experience suits both beginners and seasoned DIY enthusiasts seeking quick, rewarding results, and all supplies are included. The session typically runs about two to three hours, with timing based on the size and scope of the project. Water and sodas are provided, and personal beverages may be brought. Seats are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another date, and reservations are final once booked.

Veterinary services for pets belonging to people experiencing homelessness will include vaccines, microchipping, heartworm tests, flea and heartworm prevention, and nail trims. Pet supplies such as leashes, collars, dog jackets, and bowls will also be available. Sponsors are needed to help cover care costs, with contributions of $50 for a dog or $30 for a cat supporting a pet in need.

Explore Annie Sloan Chalk Paint in a small project workshop focused on turning everyday items into personalized pieces. Through guided, hands-on instruction, participants learn foundational brushwork along with finishing steps such as waxing and light distressing, all tailored to compact projects and welcoming to both beginners and experienced DIY enthusiasts. Every supply needed is provided, so there is nothing extra to bring. Water and sodas are available, and personal beverages are welcome. Sessions typically take about two to three hours, depending on the scope of the piece. Please note that reservations are final, seats are non-refundable, and bookings cannot be moved to another date.

One Love Cafe features “Good Time Music” without genre limits, covering songs the performers enjoy and celebrating music that inspires dancing, singing, and moving to the groove.

Enjoy a live OWBN game at Meizon Church in Gainesville. Park behind the building and use the rear entrance, as the front doors are not in use for this event. A $5 venue fee is required. Pay in cash at the door or via PayPal or Cash App, and direct payments to Korum, not Jordan. Health guidelines are in place. Vaccination cards are not required, but vaccinations are encouraged as a general health practice. If you feel unwell, please stay home. If you test positive after being in contact with other players, notify them. Those returning after a break can step back into play or coordinate with staff for plot connections or introductions to other player characters. New or curious participants are welcome to speak with staff, observe, or get help creating a character sheet, either in advance or at the event. Visitors are allowed each game. If traveling, email staff ahead of time so they can plan headcount, and send character sheets or items in advance since checks at the door are discouraged. For coordination or questions, use staugsts@gmail.com and avoid reaching out to staff via Facebook or similar platforms.

Now in its 14th year, this Heartbreaker invitational ride showcases Gainesville’s scenic corridors, from live oak tunnels draped in Spanish moss to a changing mix of dirt, limerock, gravel, and pavement. Based at One Love Cafe, the group sets off together at a relaxed pace until the agreed point where speeds pick up, then riders regroup at the finish and roll back into town together for a social return. The route will be shared during the week leading up to the ride. Cyclocross or mountain bikes are recommended, and road bikes are not suitable for these surfaces. Riders on mountain bikes are encouraged to choose faster rolling tires that work well on pavement, since heavy, aggressively knobbed treads will slow you down on paved sections. All riding takes place on open public roads, so expect traffic and typical road hazards. Know your skills and limits, ride at your own risk, and follow all rules of the road. Organizers do not guarantee surface or traffic conditions and share maps so each participant can decide whether to ride. Please do not litter and be courteous to residents along the route. These roads are regularly used by Gravel Cyclist and NFFGS, and maintaining positive relationships with local landowners matters. Good stewardship is part of good cycling.

This festive gathering showcases more than 160 local vendors. Browse arts and crafts, shop a farmers market with produce, canned goods, flowers and more, and grab a bite from a variety of food trucks. A DJ will provide live music, and kids can take part in activities. Admission is free.

Caribbean Street Fest transforms Oaks Mall Gainesville into a lively celebration of island culture, filling the space with vibrant music, bold flavors, and spirited performances. The air carries the scent of jerk smoke while plates feature jerk chicken, curry goat, festival, plantains, and chilled island drinks, all moving to the rhythms of reggae, soca, calypso, and live drum circles. Fire dancers light up the scene and limbo lines invite playful competition. Vendors offer a wide range of finds, including handmade crafts, island spices, art, candles, jewelry, sea moss, herbs, sweet treats, and boutique treasures. Admission is free. An RSVP on the event page enters a drawing for a $25 gift card to spend at the fest. Vendor opportunities are available for food trucks, dessert makers, candle and jewelry creators, boutiques, sea moss and herb sellers, and other handmade goods.

Bring a favorite small furniture piece and explore creative techniques to refresh it in a hands-on furniture painting workshop. Learn to prepare surfaces, prime effectively, and choose paints suited to different materials while creating custom finishes that reflect your style. Guided instruction covers smooth, durable results with Chalk Paint, ways to add texture and highlight details, and proper waxing to seal and protect your work. Participants will work with Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and Wax products and leave with a transformed piece and the confidence to take on future projects. All supplies are provided, aside from the item you plan to paint. No prior experience is needed, only an interest in DIY and creativity. The session typically runs two to three hours, depending on the scope of each project. Water and sodas are available, and you are welcome to bring a beverage of your choice. Please note that seats are non-refundable and cannot be transferred to another date. Once reserved, your spot is final.

At The Hippodrome Theatre in Gainesville, a candlelit concert celebrates beloved Christmas music in an intimate setting. The Listeso String Quartet performs a 60 minute program that may feature Tchaikovsky's Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker, Greensleeves, Carol of the Bells, O Holy Night, O Tannenbaum, We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!, Feliz Navidad by José Feliciano, Jingle Bells, Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree by Brenda Lee, Love Is All Around by Wet Wet Wet, Let It Go from Frozen, Once Upon a December from Anastasia by Stephen Flaherty, Maestro from The Holiday by Hans Zimmer, It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas by Michael Bublé, Last Christmas by Wham!, and All I Want for Christmas Is You by Mariah Carey. Doors open 45 minutes before the performance and late entry is not allowed. Guests must be at least 8 years old and anyone under 16 must attend with an adult. Seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone, and the venue is not ADA compliant.

A community veterinary clinic will take place in the parking area of the SWAG Family Resource Center, providing no-cost care for eligible pet owners. Supported by local donations, services include exams, vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm testing, flea and heartworm prevention, and nail trims. Participation is limited to residents of ZIP code 32607 who can present proof of income eligibility, for example SSI, Food Stamps, disability benefits, or a HUD voucher. Only spayed or neutered pets can receive services. Space is limited.

Mariee Siou offers a folk-grounded sound that is distinctly her own, weaving images of the natural world, dreams, memory, and everyday mysteries into close, immersive songs. Her gentle yet assured voice sets a contemplative mood that rewards careful listening, with subtle details emerging the more you lean in.

The Meet Up in Gainesville hosts a live blues performance by North Central Florida artist Sheba the Mississippi Queen alongside a classic New Year menu of black eyed peas, cornbread, collard greens, and BBQ. Dinner plates will be available for purchase on site from Pertee Good BBQ.

One of the nation’s premier street car series comes to Gainesville Raceway for a weekend packed with drag racing. The slate features Lil Gangstas, Small Tire, Street Racer, 9.50 index, 10.50 index, 11.50 index, Jr Dragsters, and the 1/4 mile Queens. An epic car show presented by Hoosier Tire rounds out the event.

J.R.S. Steppers in Gainesville presents a Detroit Ballroom dance experience featuring Harvey Dobbs from Detroit, Michigan, an accomplished dancer. Schedule details are tentative and more information will be announced. The organizers are committed to improving lives through dance, one step at a time.

Explore wedding services and ideas from local professionals, including photography, entertainment, venues, planning, flowers, décor, beauty, and more. The expo features wedding décor displays, cake and catering samples, a runway fashion show showcasing bridal styles for the wedding party, and entertainment. Attendees can also book wedding professionals at the show. Prize giveaways include honeymoon vacations, with winners required to be present.