Loitering is encouraged.

Sure you can venture out during the day and appreciate Gainesville's natural beauty, but it's the people that will keep you coming right back downtown. The art doesn't just hang on the walls of galleries like the Harn Museums or in an area gallery, and the acting doesn't just take place in an auditorium. Each year, Downtown Gainesville welcomes local artists and musicians from around the region to share their craft on the city streets during the Downtown Festival and Arts Show. But it doesn't stop there. If you're a night owl, then check out the Plaza any Friday evening between May and September and you'll see performances from different theater companies, dance crews, and all sorts of live bands. Or, near the end of January, put on your jupon and kettle hat because Downtown goes Medieval for the Hoggestowne Faire. Better yet, leave the armor at home and just bring your imagination.