What’s Good Guide of Weekly Events in Gainesville and Alachua County, February 8-14, 2024
Make it a weekend to remember with What’s Good. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Dance Alive National Ballet’s Love in the Swamp. Feel the thrill as Gainesville Circus Center high-flying trapeze artists dazzle with their leaps and bounds. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, find unique ways to treat a special someone with ideas from Visit Gainesville, Alachua County’s specially curated 7 Fun Ways to Celebrate Love and Friendship on Valentine’s Day.
Dive into interactive museum activities at Girls Do Science and stay for the rest of the exhibits at the Florida Museum of Natural History. Make it a weekend getaway with great promotions from the Quality Inn Alachua Diver’s Discount and Hotel ELEO at the University of Florida’s Slam Dunk Deal basketball discount.
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.
Dance Alive National Ballet Presents Love in the Swamp
Saturday February 10, 7:30 p.m. | UF Phillips Center
3201 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611
Just in time for Valentine’s Day, Love in the Swamp is a treat for the senses, an artistic love letter to Alachua County. Get ready for a layered experience combining elegant choreography, poetry and stunning visuals.
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Follow the Leaps and Bounds of High-Flying Trapeze Artists at the Street Circus Spectacular
Saturday, February 10, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. | Gainesville Circus Center
1925 Northwest 2nd St., Gainesville, FL 32609
Back for a second year, The Dragon Fliers soar through the air from an outdoor stage creating an exciting street circus performance. The fun continues inside the Gainesville Circus Center with aerial acrobatics.
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Connect with Hands-on Museum and Science Activities at Girls Do Science 2024
Saturday, February 10, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Florida Museum of Natural History
3215 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611
In celebration of International Women and Girls in Science Day, the Florida Museum hosts a day full of activities and conversation with a variety of scientists. Hands-on learning includes DNA extraction with the McGuire Center for Lepidoptera & Biodiversity, explore pollination up close with the Ordway Lab of Ecosystem Conservation, take part in a bone chemistry laboratory with UF Department of Anthropology and more. Admission is free.
Jazz it Up with Someone Special at Gainesville Big Band’s “Love is in the Air” Concert
Sunday, February 11, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Meizon Church
3411 NW 83rd St., Gainesville, FL 32606
Gainesville Big Band’s curated Valentine’s Day-themed concert features classic jazz standards and modern hits showcasing the band’s diverse musical talents.
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Hear the 61 Bells in UF Century Tower Ring Out with 2 Days of Music at the UF Carillon Festival
Friday, February 9, 6:15 p.m., Saturday, February 10, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. | UF Century Tower
375 Newell Dr., Gainesville, FL 32611
Join a celebration of the carillon during the 2024 UF School of Music Carillon Conference. Friday night’s performance features a world premiere of new work performed by Wade FitzGerald. Saturday features UF Carillon Studio alumni followed by a lecture and discussion. Annie Gao, Bok Tower Blanchard Carillon Fellow concludes the festival. Admission is free.
Enjoy Mimosas, Treats and Artistic Gifts with the Artisans’ Guild Valentine and Galentine Celebration
Sunday, February 11, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m. | Artisans’ Guild Gallery
227 NW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
Browse the art gallery with refreshments. Meet artists Linda Pence and Trude Spillane on the porch with an assortment of gift-sized paintings.
(sold out) Go UpStage at the UF Phillips Center with Jazz, Classical and Pop with The String Queens
Thursday, February 8, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | UF Phillips Center
3201 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611
The String Queens is a dynamic trio that inspires audiences to love, hope, feel, and imagine through stirring musical experiences. With a repertoire that spans from Baroque to jazz to the Hot 100 Chart, The String Queens act as a bridge between classical music and mainstream pop.
UpStage is an intimate, cabaret-style setting on the Phillips Center Mainstage. The 7 p.m. seating includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and cash bar; the 9 p.m. seating includes desserts and cash bar.
Enjoy Jazz from the Outdoor Stage with Joe Breidenstine Quintet at Jazz on the Green
Saturday, February 10, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Celebration Pointe
4949 SW Celebration Point Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
Trumpeter Joe Breidenstine has performed around the world. Some of his most memorable performances have been with Lou Rawls, Tito Puente, Jon Faddis, George Benson, David “fathead” Newman and many others. As the sun sets, spread a blanket or pull up a chair and enjoy live music on the promenade. Kick back with food, drinks and sweet treats from nearby restaurants.
Take Aim for New Skills with Archery Classes at Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center
Saturday, February 10, 9 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center
210 SE 134 Ave., Micanopy, FL 32667
Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center kicks off its Introduction to Archery class. Instruction is aimed for those who want to try out the sport or simply hone their skills, while getting a better understanding of equipment and safety.
❤ 7 Fun Ways to Celebrate Love and Friendship on Valentine’s Day ❤
Find inspiration to surprise your special someone with our comprehensive guide to Valentine’s Day in Gainesville and Alachua County featuring delicious dining, gift markets, themed events and more.
Museum Nights: Vibrant Africa at the Harn Museum of Art
Thursday, February 8, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Name, Image, and Blackness: Race and College Football with Dr. Leonard N. Moore at UF Smathers Library
Thursday, February 15, 4 p.m.
City of Hope: Mobilizing Communities with Dr. Gwendolyn Zoharah Simmons, Ph.D. at A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center
Thursday, February 15, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Celebrating Black History Pop-Up Market at Anthropologie
Saturday, February 17, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Black History Month: Frederick Douglass and Capt. John Brown at Alachua County Library District Headquarters
Sunday, February 18, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Explore the Alachua County Digital Black Heritage Trail Map (pdf)
Black in Natural History Museums Scavenger Hunt at the Florida Museum of Natural History
Learn About the Legacy of an Inspirational Educator at the A Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center
View African American History and Culture at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
View the Online Exhibit “We’re Tired of Asking” with the Matheson History Museum
Black History Month Resources from the University of Florida
Black History Month with the Alachua County Library District
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Pop-Up Markets and Retail Shopping
“Valenswine’s and Cowlentine’s Day” Farmers Moo-Ket at Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary
Sunday, February 11, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Shop local boutiques and national brands at Butler Enterprises, Celebration Pointe, The Oaks Mall and Shoppes at Thornebrook.
Arts and Theatre
Experience Soaring Rock Music and Unforgettable Characters with Tony Award-winning Musical Next to Normal at Hippodrome Theatre
Now through Sunday, February 25
The groundbreaking musical explores a modern-day family struggling with mental illness. The electrifying rock soundtrack combines with heart-wrenching lyrics for a gripping emotional and unforgettable journey that keeps you at the edge of your seat.
Photo by Michael A. Eaddy
Panel Discussion: The Stigmatization of Mental Health
Thursday, February 8, after the 7 p.m. show
Pre-Show Lecture: How to support those struggling with mental illness – Alachua County Crisis Center
Sunday, February 11 at 1 p.m. in Basement
Expect Kong-sized Hilarity with Kong’s Night Out at Gainesville Community Playhouse
Now through February 11
When word gets out of a new mystery show opening across the street of a new play, rival producers battle it out in a crazy, fast paced comedy set in 1933 New York City. Events unfold parallel to the movie King Kong, in the hotel room adjacent to where actress Ann Farrow was whisked away by the king of the apes before wreaking havoc across Manhattan.
UF School of Theatre and Dance Presents Everybody by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins at McGuire Pavilion Black Box Theatre
Friday, February 9 – Sunday, February 18
Sip and Stroll Tour of the Hippodrome Theatre
Sunday, February 11, 5 p.m.
Be Mesmerized with the One-Man Play C.S. Lewis on Stage: Further Up and Further In at UF Phillips Center
Monday, February 12, 7:30 p.m.
Events & Festivals
Surrealist Film Night at Hippodrome Cinema
Friday, February 9, 7 p.m.
Family Day at the UF/IFAS Dairy Farm
Saturday, February 10, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Gainesville Cars and Coffee at Ford’s Garage
Sunday, February 11, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Music & Performance
Blues with D. Scott Riggs at Lightnin’ Salvage
Thursday, February 8, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
The Newest Olympian and Potterless Live Show with Mike Schubert at High Dive
Thursday, February 8, 8 p.m.
Bluegrass with Boilin’ Oil at Lightnin’ Salvage
Friday, February 9, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Rock with Connor Kelly and The Time Warp at High Dive
Friday, February 9, 8 p.m.
Colombian Dance Music at Carnaval de Barranquilla at Simon’s
Saturday, February 10, 9:30 p.m. – 2 a.m.
Guitar Concerts and Masterclasses at UF Guitar Extravaganza Festival and Competition at UF School of Music
Saturday, February 10 – Sunday, February 11
Square Dance with Live Band and Caller at Heartwood Soundstage
Sunday, February 11, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Rock with Hannah Wicklund at Heartwood Soundstage
Tuesday, February 13, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Detroit Symphony Orchestra with Cellist Alisa Weilerstein at UF Phillips Center
Tuesday, February 13, 7:30 p.m.
Craft Breweries
Make a resolution to visit every brewery on the Sippin’ Seven Alachua County Ale Trail in 2024.
Rally for Land Conservation at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Saturday, February 10, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Mardi Party and Masquerade Ball at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Saturday, February 10, 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Americana with Aisle 14 at Blackadder Brewing Company
Saturday, February 10, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Big Game on the Big Screen at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Sunday, February 11, 6:30 p.m.
U-Picks and Farmers Markets
U-Pick Strawberries at The Bryer Patch
Saturdays and Sundays through April
Please be aware strawberry picking is weather dependent; please stay up to date with the farms on Facebook and Instragram
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.
Union Street Farmers Market at Bo Diddley Plaza
Wednesdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
GNV Market at South Main Station
Thursdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Farmers Market at Celebration Pointe
Thursdays, 4 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 at Superette
Thursday, February 8, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, February 8 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at the Traveler Wine Bar
Thursday, February 8 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Chinese New Year at Mr Han’s Restaurant
Saturday, February 10, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
(sold out) Wine Pairing and Soups Cooking Class at The Fat Tuscan
Saturday, February 10, 12 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Dinner with Friends Chef Collaboration at Superette
Sunday, February 11, 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Sports & Fans
Gators Women’s Basketball vs. Arkansas at Exactech Arena
Thursday, February 8, 6 p.m.
Live Gator Talk Broadcast with Gators Gymnastics Coach Jenny Rowland at The Keys Grill and Piano Bar
Thursday, February 8, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
(sold out) Gators Gymnastics “Link to Pink” vs. Arkansas
Friday, February 9, 7:15 p.m.
(sold out) Gators Men’s Basketball vs. Auburn at Exactech Arena
Saturday, February 10, 3:30 p.m.
Gators Men’s Basketball vs. LSU at Exactech Arena
Tuesday, February 13, 8 p.m.
Gators Lacrosse vs. Scotland at Donald R. Dizney Stadium
Wednesday, February 14, 5 p.m.
Gators Softball vs. Jacksonville at Katie Seashore Stadium
Wednesday, February 14, 6 p.m.
Florida University Last Chance Indoor Track and Field at Alachua County Sports and Events Center
Friday, February 9
Florida High School/Middle School Indoor Track and Field Championships at Alachua County Sports and Events Center
Friday, February 9 – Saturday, February 10
Parks & Trails
Accessible Tram Tours at Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Ongoing, Check for Availability
Friday, February 9, 9 a.m.
Monday, February 12, 2 p.m.
Free Timed 5K at Depot Park
Saturday, February 10, 7:30 a.m.
Ranger-Led Rim Ramble Hike at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park La Chua Trail
Saturday, February 10, 9:45 a.m.
Weekly Walk and Talk at Tuscawilla Preserve
Friday, February 9, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Dudley Kids Day: Take a Spin at Dudley Farm Historic State Park
Saturday, February 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Music and Movement at Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Park
Tuesday, February 13, 3 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Wednesday Bird Walks with Alachua Audubon Society at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Wednesday, February 14, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Barnyard Buddies at Morningside Nature Center
Wednesday, February 14, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
River & Springs
Enjoy Cooler Weather and Explore the Outdoors and with Anderson’s Outdoor Adventures and Visit 8 Springs in 8 Miles
Friday – Sunday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Fed by the underground Floridan Aquifer, North Florida has one of the highest concentrations of springs in the world. Anderson’s Outdoor Adventure offers an easy way to experience 8 springs in 8 miles. Paddle along the Santa Fe River in a canoe or kayak and experience crystal clear water, see native wildlife and relax in a tranquil nature setting.
Float or Splash Into Freshwater Springs
North Florida is home to the largest collection of first-magnitude springs in the United States. The springs make a perfect destination for swimming, snorkeling, scuba diving and relaxing in nature. If you’re looking for outdoor fun, we’ve got you covered with our list of nearby springs, great places to stay and fun things to do.
Museums & Galleries
Exhibition Opening Reception of the Juried Student Show at Gary R. Libby University Gallery
Friday, February 9, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Fresh Flower Workshop with Iron and Clay at Harn Museum of Art
Saturday, February 10, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Remembering Artist Jerry Uelsmann with a Community Conversation at Harn Museum of Art
Sunday, February 11, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Tot Trot: Forests at the Florida Museum of Natural History
Tuesday, February 13, 9 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
Friends of Elementary Arts Student & Mentor Show at GFAA
Now through Saturday, February 17
Big Fun Solo Exhibition by Josiah Lloyd at Hippodrome Gallery
Now through March 3
City of Hope: Resurrection City and The 1968 Poor People’s Campaign at A. Quinn Jones Museum and Cultural Center
Now through April 26
Chill with Cool Dinos at the Interactive Exhibit “Antarctic Dinosaurs”
Now through April 21 | Florida Museum of Natural History
3215 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611
Discover life beneath the ice in Antarctic Dinosaurs. Uncover the history of the world’s southernmost continent and the unique species that have called it home in this interactive, family-friendly experience. Antarctic Dinosaurs is on display through April 21.
Explore additional exhibits at the Florida Museum including the Butterfly Rainforest featuring hundreds of flying butterflies, South Florida People and Environments, Florida Fossils and the kid-friendly Discovery Zone. Plan your visit online.
Save The Date
Celebrating Culture: Chinese New Year at Art After Dark, February 15
Christone “Kingfish” Ingram at High Dive, February 17
Heartwood Music Fest, February 23-24
NMRA Spring Break Shootout, February 22-25
Art Fair on the Green in High Springs, March 2-3
NHRA Gatornationals, March 7-10
Florida Humanities Gathering in High Springs, March 15-17, Registration deadline is February 14
Pat Metheny Dream Box Tour, March 20
Spring Garden Festival at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, March 23-24
For a complete list of events please visit www.visitgainesville.com/events/
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