What’s Good® Guide of Weekly Events in Gainesville and Alachua County, August 15-21, 2024
Sample a menu of celebrations and fun events this weekend with What’s Good®. First Magnitude Brewing Company celebrates ten years with “The Decade Tour.” Enjoy a night of storytelling with “The Big Tasty.” It’s the last summer weekend to float down the lazy river and splash in the wave pool at Kulaqua River Ranch. Plus, catch the action at the Gainesville Indoor Pickleball Showcase.
Read on for more of What’s Good®,
Your partners at Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Be Informed: The below information was accurate at the time of publishing.
Please contact organizers directly to double-check details.
Celebrate 10 Years with One of the Anchors of South Main at First Magnitude Brewing Company’s “The Decade Tour”
Saturday, August 17, 1 p.m. | First Magnitude Brewing Company
1220 SE Veitch St., Gainesville 32601
Since opening its doors in 2014 with 4 employees and 5 beers, First Magnitude has grown into an award-winning brewery with over 100 unique beers a year. “First Mag” is also a beloved community hub, hosting community events, live music and annual festivals with a family-friendly atmosphere. Learn more about their history and community impacts here.
For its tenth anniversary, “The Decade Tour” features special beer releases and live music across three stages. VIP tickets include early admission, a three-course beer-paired brunch menu, exclusive bottle release and more.
Sample a Buffet of Live Stories with Upbeat, Energetic Tales at “The Big Tasty”
Thursday, August 15, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | The Wooly
30 N Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Guts & Glory GNV curates a lineup of stories for this end-of-summer show. Sit back for a wild a ride with everything from tall stories to true tales, all served with a big portion of laughs. Online tickets are available until 3 p.m. and will not be available at the door.
Experience Musical Mastery with Kyran Daniel at Heartwood Soundstage
Thursday, August 15, 7 p.m. | Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
For fans of Tommy Emannuel’s dazzling fingerstyle guitar techniques, this is the show for you. Songwriter, composer and guitarist Kyran Daniel began his career performing next to his mentor, Tommy Emmanuel. He is currently on an international tour in support of his debut solo album, Like the Night Itself, recorded at and inspired by locations around the world.
Catch the Final Weekend of “The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical” and Don’t Let the Epic Search for Zeus’ Lightning Bolt Get Away
Now through Sunday, August 18 | Acrosstown Repertory Theatre
3501 SW 2nd Ave., Suite O, Gainesville, FL 32607
This dynamic adaptation of Rick Riordan’s bestselling book, Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief, features a mythical adventure with a thrilling original rock score. After discovering he’s a demigod, teenager Percy Jackson and his friends seek out Zeus’ missing lightning bolt in an effort to prevent a war among the gods
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Catch the Action at the Ultimate Pickleball Showdown – the Gainesville Indoor Pickleball Showcase
Friday, August 16, 11 a.m., Saturday, August 17 – Sunday, August 18, 8 a.m. | Alachua County Sports and Events Center
4870 Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
The 7th annual event includes a new beginner-friendly division and youth divisions. Daily competition begins with a round-robin format followed by a single-elimination playoff. Singles competitions begin on Friday, followed by doubles on Saturday and mixed doubles on Sunday. Registration for athletes has ended, however spectator admission is free.
Find Your Weekend Groove with R&B from D.R. Band and Soul Fire at the Free Fridays Concert Series
Friday, August 16, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Bo Diddley Plaza
Downtown Gainesville
The City of Gainesville’s Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza is a fun way to enjoy a Friday night downtown. D.R. Band and Soul Fire, a seven-piece funk and smooth jazz ensemble, creates the perfect playlist for music under a summer evening sky. Enjoy food and drinks from nearby cafes and restaurants within walking distance. Admission is free.
Get Ready to Ride at the BMX Summer Race Series – an Evening of Thrills and Skills for All Ages
Saturday, August 17, 6:30 p.m. | High Springs BMX
NW 2nd St., High Springs, FL 32643
Tackle fun, technical racing at High Springs BMX. Racers of all skill levels are welcome. Registration and practice start at 6:30 p.m. followed by racing at 7:30 p.m.
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Make One Last Splash in the Wave Pool and Float Down the Lazy River at the Final Community Day of the Year at Kulaqua River Ranch
Sunday, August 18, 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Kulaqua River Ranch
23400 NW 212th Ave., High Springs, FL 32643
Beat the summer heat with a refreshing day at Kulaqua River Ranch. Grab a tube and float in the 15,000-square foot wave pool and relax along the winding 600-foot lazy river.
Last Call! Buy One Get One (BOGO) Admission at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens and Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo. Experience Two Worlds with One Ticket.
Now through Sunday, August 18
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens| 4700 SW 58th Dr., Gainesville, FL 32608
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo | 3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606
For a limited time through Sunday, August 18, enjoy admission to both Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo and Kanapaha Botanical Gardens. Purchase full-price admission for one venue, receive a free admission voucher for the other venue. Get your BOGO and plan your visit at Kanapaha.org and sfcollege.edu/zoo.
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
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Pop-Up Markets and Retail Shopping
The Florida Vintage Market at Midpoint Park and Eatery
Sunday, August 18, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Now Open: Game Day Merch at Fan Outfitters at Butler Town Center
3630 SW 32nd Ct, Ste 10, Gainesville, FL 32608
Shop local boutiques and national brands at Butler Enterprises, Celebration Pointe, The Oaks Mall and Shoppes at Thornebrook.
Events & Festivals
Ride Light Dressage 1 and 2 at Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center
Saturday, August 17 – Sunday, August 18
(registration ended) Watercolor Workshop with Award-Winning Artist Maryo Smith at Lanza Gallery and Art Supplies
Friday, August 16 – Saturday, August 17, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Sip N’ Stroll Historic Building Tour at the Hippodrome Theatre
Sunday, August 18, 4 p.m.
Books, Beignets and More at the Book and Art Faire at The AUK Market
Sunday, August 18, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Book Signings: The Traveling Canary in Alachua County with Author Terrence Ho
108 Vine: Saturday, August 17, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
The AUK Market Book and Art Faire: Saturday, August 18, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
SL8 Gallery: Wednesday, August 21, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Book Signings: 100 Things to do In Gainesville Before You Die with Author Lauren Gonzales
Laurel Oak Inn: Thursday, August 15, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
108 Vine: Saturday, August 17, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The AUK Market Book and Art Faire: Sunday, August 18, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Music & Performance
Americana with Dim Lights at Lightnin’ Salvage
Thursday, August 15, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Beatle Hits and Classic Rock with The Impostors at One Love Café
Thursday, August 15, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Live Jazz with Brenda Bayne at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, August 15, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Rap It Up B, Essential Hip Hop with DJ RhinestoneDDD at Baby J’s Bar
Thursday, August 15, 9 p.m.
Swamp Blues with Mr. Aullie at Lightnin’ Salvage
Friday, August 16, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Classic Rock with Enlightened Rogues at One Love Café
Friday, August 16, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Country with Justin Lee Partin at the Great Outdoors Restaurant
Friday, August 16, 6:45 p.m.
Hipp Spotlight Cabaret: Teens Take the Stage at the Hippodrome Theatre
Friday, August 16, 7 p.m.
Kiss 105.3 FM Concert Series with Chillula at Celebration Pointe
Friday, August 16, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Jazz with Edward White Quartet at Baby J’s Bar
Friday, August 16, 8 p.m.
Jazz-Funk with Dionysus, Sauce Pocket and DJ Venezonix at The Wooly
Friday, August 16, 9 p.m.
Acoustic Duets with Good Vibes at Codfathers
Saturday, August 17, 6 p.m.
Gator Bleu Swamp Band at Top Hog BBQ, Bourbon and Blues
Saturday, August 17, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Jazz with Swing Theory at One Love Café
Saturday, August 17, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Jazz with Nick DeCarlis Trio at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Saturday, August 17, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Funk and R&B with Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream at the Great Outdoors Restaurant
Saturday, August 17, 7 p.m.
Smells Like Nirvana Tribute at The Wooly
Saturday, August 17, 7 p.m. – 11:55 p.m.
Country and Rock with Cliff Dorsey and Houston Keen at El Patio
Sunday, August 18, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Singer-Songwriter Deb Ruby with Cellist Melissa Grady and Alt-Folk with June Bunch at the Listening Room Series at The Bull
Sunday, August 18, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Scene Queens: Swamp Girl Summer at the Hippodrome Basement
Monday, August 19, 7 p.m.
Traditional Irish Session at Lightnin’ Salvage
Tuesday, August 20, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Darren Burgess Jazz Collective at One Love Café
Wednesday, August 21, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Craft Breweries
Local craft breweries serve refreshments all summer and make a perfect gathering place after a day on the water or hiking the trails. Enjoy live music and special events. Learn more about the Alachua County Ale Trail at visitgainesville.com/sippinseven. Cheers!
Charity Bingo Night at Blackadder Brewing Company
Thursday, August 15, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Classic Rock with Southern Burn at High Springs Brewing Company
Friday, August 16, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Classic Rock with Brandon Dull at Swamp Head Brewery
Friday, August 16, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Blues with Moondog at Daft Cow Brewery
Friday, August 16, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Classic Rock with Late 4 Class at High Springs Brewing Company
Saturday, August 17, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Night on the Nile: Summer Haze Belly Dancing at Blackadder Brewing Company
Saturday, August 17, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Sunday Brewer Sessions with Eric Buenrostro at Swamp Head Brewery
Sunday, August 18, 2 p.m., 3 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Find Creativity and Curiosity on Display at the “Local Color, a Study of Our Native Flora” Exhibit at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company
Now through August 30, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Summer is great time for a Pedal, Paddle, Pub adventure.
Find inspiration at visitgainesville.com
U-Picks and Farmers Markets
U-Pick Muscadine Grapes at Deep Spring Farm
Saturday, August 17, 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
U-Pick Muscadine Grapes at Bluefield Estate Winery
Thursday, August 15 – Friday, August 16, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, August 17 – Sunday, August 18, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Grove Street Farmers Market with Live Music
Mondays, 4 p.m. –7 p.m.
Archer Farmers Market at Archer Historical Society Railroad Museum
Tuesdays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
High Springs Farmers Market
Fridays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Haile Village Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Alachua County Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Waldo Farmers and Flea Market
Saturdays and Sundays, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Bites and Brunch
Wine Tasting for Ages 21+ at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, August 15, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting for Ages 21+ at the Traveler Wine Bar
Thursday, August 15, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting for Ages 21+ at Superette
Thursday, August 15, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Vino and Vinyl at Serpentine
Thursday, August 15, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
August Wine Tasting Class Series: Austria & Germany at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Saturday, August 17, 4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m.
All About Pickling: Knife Skills; Processing, Preserving & Fermenting Cooking Class at the Fat Tuscan
Sunday, August 18, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
National Soft Serve Day at Carvel
Monday, August 19, 11 a.m.
All beer and wine tasting events are for ages 21+.
Sports & Fans
“Funtastic Fridays” Archery at Easton Newberry Archery Center
Friday, August 9, 5:30 p.m.
Gators Game Day Locker Room Tour at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Thursday, August 15 – Wednesday, August 21
Gators Soccer vs. Western Carolina at Donald R. Dizney Stadium
Friday, August 16, 7 p.m.
Parks & Trails
Friends of Paynes Prairie Speaker Series: Tracing The Bartram’s Route Feat. Joe Foy at the Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park Visitor Center
Thursday, August 15, 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Free Timed 5K with parkrun at Depot Park
Saturday, August 17, 7:30 a.m.
Museums & Galleries
Art After Dark at Harn Museum of Art
Thursday, August 15, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Maker Workshops: Aerospace Engineering at the Cade Museum
Saturday, August 17, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Weekend Docent-Led Tour at the Harn Museum of Art
Saturday, August 17, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Now on Display: Florida: The State of Our Nature Features 14 High-Resolution Images from Collections at the Florida Museum of Natural History
Monday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Sunday, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.
View 250 Years of History at the Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit “Voices and Votes: Democracy in America” at the Matheson History Museum
Now through Saturday, September 7
Gainesville and Alachua County was selected to host the Smithsonian Museum on Main Street traveling exhibition. The interactive exhibit explores the American experiment of a government “of, by and for the people” with photographs, objects, film, audio and interactives.
Save The Date
Gainesville Indoor Pickleball Showcase, August 16-18
Brew at the Zoo, August 24
Artwalk Gainesville, August 30
Gators Football vs. Miami, August 31
ARTSPEAKS: Bringing Poetry and People Together, September 8
Gainesville Latino Film Festival, September 12-29
UpStage at the Phillips Center with Sean Mason Quartet, September 20
Florida AVP Grass Nationals Volleyball Tournament, September 27-29
Gainesville Pride Festival, September 28
Fall Arts Festival at the Shoppes at Thornebrook, September 28-29
For a complete list of events please visit www.visitgainesville.com/events/
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