What’s Good Guide of Weekly Events in Gainesville and Alachua County, March 7-13, 2024
Race into the weekend with What’s Good. The NHRA Gatornationals kick off the 20024 drag racing season with 4 days of horsepower at legendary Gainesville Raceway. Join race fans from across the country to see drivers compete with speeds reaching over 330-mph.
Heartwood Soundstage presents local legends, touring musicians and inspirational workshops at the Gainesville Guitar Festival. Experience the Harn’s newest exhibit and contribute to a community mandala with Tibetan Monk and Artist Lama Tashi Norbu. Join the Matheson History Museum’s 30-year anniversary with a throwback sock hop dance.
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.
Join Race Fans from Across the Country and Feel the Roar of 11,000 Horsepower at the Amalie Oil NHRA Gatornationals
Thursday, March 7 – Sunday, March 10 | Gainesville Raceway
11211 N CR 225, Gainesville, FL 32609
Now in its 54th year at Gainesville Raceway, Gatornationals also celebrates three consecutive years as the kick-off championship for the National Hot Rod Association race season.
Per tradition at this event, parking and admission for kids under 12 years of age is free and Every Ticket’s a Pit Pass® — where attendees see, feel, and hear the power of hot rods, get a firsthand view of the highly skilled mechanics between rounds, and collect autographs from their favorite NHRA drivers.
Tequila Comisario Tasting with NHRA Driver Camrie Caruso at Covey Kitchen and Cocktails
Thursday, March 7, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., RSVP required
Premier Screening of “Shirley,” the Documentary About the Trailblazing Shirley Muldowney at Hilton University of Florida Conference Center
Friday, March 8, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Guitar with a Side of Guitar with Performances by Local Legends and Global Touring Musicians, Workshops and More at Gainesville Guitar Festival
Saturday, March 9, 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Sunday, March 10, 9:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.| Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
The Gainesville Guitar Festival has plucked hometown guitar heroes and internationally touring musicians for a weekend celebrating diverse forms of guitar-driven music. Saturday features a swap meet and live performances. Sunday features inspirational workshops and a full lineup of guitarists on the outdoor stage.
View the schedule of workshops and live performances online.
Bare Witness to Poetry, Song, Spoken Word and Storytelling by Inspiring Young Minds as Artspeaks Presents “Courageous Young Voices”
Sunday, March 10, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. | The Historic Thomas Center
302 NE 6th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
Gather to listen to the creative spirits and intelligent minds of students from Alachua County and North Central Florida as they express themselves via poetry, song, spoken word, and storytelling at the 10th annual Courageous Young Voices showcase. Admission is free.
ARTSPEAKS organizes poetry programs throughout the year including Courageous Young Voices Teen Poetry Showcase and the Youth Poet Laureate Program.
Enjoy an Interactive Himalayan Art-Themed Experience with Tibetan Monk and Artist Lama Tashi Norbu
Thursday, March 7 – Sunday, March 9 | Harn Museum of Art
3259 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608
In conjunction with the newest exhibit at the Harn, Gateway to Himalayan Art, Lama Tashi Norbu leads unique, transformative events with live painting on Thursday and the creation of a community sand mandala on Friday and Saturday.
Live Painting with Lama Tashi Norbu at the Harn Museum of Art
Thursday, March 7, 6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.
Community Sand Mandala with Lama Tashi Norbu at the Harn Museum of Art
Friday, March 8, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m., Saturday, March 9, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Sway the Night Away with Musical Harmonies of Smooth Operatives at Jazz on the Green
Saturday, March 9, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Celebration Pointe
4949 SW Celebration Pointe Ave., Gainesville, FL 32608
Enjoy saxophone and piano-driven jazz from the Smooth Operatives. Spread a blanket after the sun sets or pull up a chair and enjoy live music from the outdoor promenade stage. Enjoy food, drinks and sweet treats from nearby restaurants. Admission is free.
Tune in for a Curated Singer Songwriter Showcase at the Live and Local Concert Series
Friday, March 8, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Bo Diddley Plaza
Downtown Gainesville
The Live and Local Concert Series features homegrown musical talent live on the outdoor stage at Bo Diddley Plaza in downtown Gainesville. Friday’s singer-songwriter showcase presents music styles ranging from folk to pop with Zara Dalvi, Thomas Allain, Janie, HelDog, Robbie Pawns, Jack Edmondson, Thymn, Banyan Leaves, Vincent Raphael and Pamelli Marafon. Admission is free.
Twist and Shout with a Throwback Sock Hop and Celebrate 30 Years of the Matheson History Museum
Saturday, March 9, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Matheson History Museum
513 E University Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
Step back in time to the 1950s and 1960s for a fun sock hop dance in the former American Legion Hall. Dance the night away with classic hits by The Impostors. Enjoy beverages at the bar and food from Hill’s BBQ. The sock hop also celebrates the opening of the newest exhibit, Weaving a Community: 30 Years of the Matheson History Museum featuring an all-encompassing view of the Matheson’s history and origins.
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Experience the Legendary Score of the Rock Musical Jesus Christ Superstar Celebrating its 50th Anniversary
Wednesday, March 13, 7:30 p.m. | UF Phillips Center
3201 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611
Originally staged by London’s Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, this production won the 2017 Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival garnering unprecedented reviews and accolades. Appealing to both theater audiences and concert music fans, this production pays tribute to the historic 1971 Billboard Album of the Year while creating a modern, theatrical world that is uniquely fresh and inspiring.
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.
Pop-Up Markets and Retail Shopping
Browse Plants and Art at the Spring Pop-Up Shop at Grow Hub
Saturday, March 9, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Shop local boutiques and national brands at Butler Enterprises, Celebration Pointe, The Oaks Mall and Shoppes at Thornebrook.
Arts & Theatre
Sit on the Edge of Your Seat the Stage Production of Misery by William Goldman at Acrosstown Repertory Theatre
Now Through Sunday, March 17
Based on the cat and mouse thriller by Stephen King, Misery follows successful romance novelist Paul Sheldon. After being rescued from a car crash, he wakes up captive in the home of Annie Wilkes, his “number one fan.” When she reads his latest book and learns about her favorite character being killed off, she becomes enraged. After being forced to write a new novel, Paul realizes the unhinged Annie has no intention of letting him go.
13th Annual Jewish Film Festival at the Hippodrome Cinema and Oak Hammock
Now through Wednesday, March 27
View a lineup of films presented by UF Bud Shorstein Center for Jewish Studies. Stories range from historic documentaries to a romantic comedy. Screenings take place at Hippodrome Cinema and Oak Hammock.
Gainesville Circus Center Presents Dusty’s Ragtime Circus at UF Performing Arts Center
Friday, March 8, 7 p.m., Saturday, March 9, 7 p.m.
Shop local boutiques and national brands at Butler Enterprises, Celebration Pointe, The Oaks Mall and Shoppes at Thornebrook.
Events & Festivals
Gainesville Cars and Coffee at Ford’s Garage
Sunday, March 10, 9 a.m.
Sip and Stroll Historic Building Tour at Hippodrome Theatre
Sunday, March 10, 5 p.m.
Music & Performance
Jazz with Eric Diamond at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, March 7, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Blues with Moondog at One Love Café
Thursday, March 7, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Indie Pop with Animal Prince at Baby J’s Bar
Thursday, March 7, 8 p.m.
‘90s and 2000s R&B and Hip Hop Throwback Party with DJ Klarc Shepard at High Dive
Thursday, March 7, 8 p.m.
Guest Artist Piano Recital with Dr. Joseph Bognar at UF School of Music
Friday, March 8, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Classic Rock with Enlightened Rogues at One Love Café
Friday, March 8, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Bluegrass with Boilin’ Oil at Lightnin’ Salvage
Friday, March 8, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Timeless Rock with Ultimate Rush Tribute at High Dive
Friday, March 8, 7 p.m.
Jazz with Patti and Her Gypsy Gents at Baby J’s Bar
Friday, March 8, 8 p.m.
Country with Nick Shoulders at Heartwood Soundstage
Friday, March 8, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Ultimate RUSH Tribute with Apex at High Dive
Friday, March 8, 8 p.m.
Rock with SYZYGY at Loosey’s Downtown
Friday, March 8, 9 p.m.
Jazz with Swing Theory at One Love Café
Saturday, March 9, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Rock with Whiskey Jones at Great Outdoors Restaurant
Saturday, March 9, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Country with Houston Keen at Lightnin’ Salvage
Saturday, March 9, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Stand-Up Comedy Class Graduation Show at High Dive
Tuesday, March 12, 7 p.m.
Craft Breweries
With a lineup of award-winning craft beer makers, The Sippin’ Seven Alachua County Ale Trail breweries are the ultimate hangout spots to sip, socialize, and maybe even spark a little friendly rivalry. So, after a day of gallivanting around, why not kick back like a local with a taste of the AC brew scene.
Country with Justin Lee Partin at High Springs Brewing Company
Friday, March 8, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Rock with Shawn Manley at Daft Cow Brewery
Friday, March 8, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Pi Day Pie Contest at Blackadder Brewing Company
Saturday, March 9, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Classic Rock with 8 Track Revival at High Springs Brewing Company
Saturday, March 9, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Retro Fashion and Art at The Florida Vintage Market at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company
Sunday, March 10, 12 p.m.
Blossom, Brew and BBQ: Gainesville Garden Club Celebrates 100 Years at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Sunday, March 10, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.
U-Picks and Farmers Markets
U-Pick Strawberries at Crossroads Farm and Apiary
Friday, March 8, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
U-Pick Strawberries at The Bryer Patch
Saturday, March 9 – Sunday, March 10, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m
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, March 7, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, March 7, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at the Traveler Wine Bar
Thursday, March 7, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Free Shaved Ice Day at Charlie’s Snow Shack
Saturday, March 9, 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Women in Wine Class at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Saturday, March 9, 4:30 p.m.
Flight to Europe Macaron and Wine Pairing at Le Macaron
Saturday, March 9, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m., registration required
Break Making Intermediate Class: English Muffins at The Fat Tuscan
Wednesday, March 13, 11a.m. – 2 p.m.
Sports & Fans
Charity Cup Gymnastics Meet at Alachua County Sports and Events Center
Friday, March 8 – Sunday, March 10
Gators Women’s Tennis vs. Georgia at Alfred A. Ring Tennis Complex
Friday, March 8, 5 p.m.
Gators Baseball vs. Saint Mary’s at Condron Family Ballpark
Friday, March 8, 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, March 9, 6:30 p.m.
Sunday, March 10, 1 p.m.
Gators Women’s Tennis vs. Tennessee at Alfred A. Ring Tennis Complex
Sunday, March 10, 12 p.m.
Gators Men’s Tennis vs Tennessee State at Alfred A. Ring Tennis Complex
Tuesday, March 12, 11 a.m., 4 p.m.
Gators Baseball vs. FSU at Condron Family Ballpark
Tuesday, March 12, 6 p.m.
Gators Lacrosse vs. Princeton at Donald R. Dizney Stadium
Wednesday, March 13, 1 p.m.
Gators Softball vs. Stetson at Katie Seashole Pressly Stadium
Wednesday, March 13, 6 p.m.
Parks & Trails
Accessible Tram Tours at Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Ongoing, Check for Availability
Friday, March 8, 9 a.m.
Free Timed 5K at Depot Park
Saturday, March 9, 7:30 a.m.
Birding Field Trip with Alachua Audubon Society at Cone’s Dike Trail
Saturday, March 9, 8 a.m.
Guided Paddle on the Lower Santa Fe River with Lars Andersen at Poe Springs Boat Ramp
Saturday, March 9, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Ranger-Led Hike at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Saturday, March 9, 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
Ranger-Led Rim Ramble Hike at Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park La Chua Trail
Saturday, March 9, 9:45 a.m.
Wednesday Bird Walks with Alachua Audubon Society at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Wednesday, March 13, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.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
Now Open: “Weaving a Community: 30 Years of the Matheson History Museum” Exhibition Opens at the Matheson History Museum
Movie Night with What Happened, Miss Simone? at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Saturday, March 9, 6:30 p.m.
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.
Save The Date
Florida Humanities Gathering in High Springs, March 15-17
Pat Metheny Dream Box Tour, March 20
Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day, March 23
Dance Alive National Ballet Presents Giselle, March 23
Strawberry Festival at The Bryer Patch, Saturday, March 23
Spring Garden Festival at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, March 23-24
Newberry Spring Festival, April 6
Party for the Planet at Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo, April 6
Grassroots Motorsports $2000 Challenge, April 6-7
Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival, April 13-14
Hogtown Craft Beer Festival, April 13
Gators Football Orange and Blue Game, April 13
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.
The images and materials included in the Alachua County What’s Good guide of weekly events may be copyrighted works and property of the content provider, and thus subject to legal protections. Display by the County of such does not authorize another to copy, reproduce, distribute, publish, display, modify, or in any way exploit any such works.
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.
