What’s Good Guide of Weekly Events in Gainesville and Alachua County, October 5-11, 2023
Visit Gainesville, Alachua County welcomes University of Florida alumni and Gator Football fans for an exciting 100 Year Anniversary Homecoming Celebration. Homecoming events include Thursday’s Gator Growl, Friday’s parade and Saturday’s football game.
Show off your salsa dance moves at Hippvanna. Chill with cool dinos at the opening day of the new interactive exhibit “Antarctic Dinosaurs” at the Florida Museum. Get outside and enjoy nature tours including a guided walk at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens.
Read on for more of What’s Good.
Be safe and be well,
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.
POP, R&B Singer Jason Derulo Rocks Gator Growl for the 100th Year Celebration of UF Homecoming – Get Ready for the Exciting Homecoming Weekend Line Up Orange and Blue Events
Thursday, October 5 – Friday, October 6
This year marks 100 years of Homecoming & Gator Growl at UF. Homecoming & Gator Growl is a week of events including the Homecoming Leadership Pageant, Soulfest, Festival, Gator Gallop, Parade, and Gator Growl.
Thursday at 6 p.m., the student-run pep rally Gator Growl features Sammy Adams and Jason Derulo at Exactech Arena.
Friday’s festivities start with the UF Homecoming Festival at UF Plaza of the Americas at 9:30 a.m., followed by the 2-mile fun run Gator Gallop at 10 a.m.
Join the crowd of over 100,000 Gator fans for the Homecoming Parade marching up 13th Street and then along University Avenue towards Main Street starting at 12 p.m. on Friday. Find details and get Gator Growl tickets at gatorgrowl.org
Wear Blue in the The Swamp as Florida Gators Football takes on Vanderbilt
Saturday, October 7, 4 p.m. | Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
157 Gale Lemerand Dr., Gainesville, FL 32611
The 57th meeting between the two schools is this year’s homecoming matchup for the Gators. Arrive early for pre-game festivities including Gators Fan Fest and Gator Walk. Find game day details including parking, mobile ticketing and more at FloridaGators.com.Photo by Matt Stamey
Plan your gameday weekend with Visit Gainesville, Alachua County’s gameday weekend guide of local events, free things to do, drive-worthy dining and more.
Discover which Craft Beer Pairs Best with Football on the Sippin’ Seven Ale Trail
Turn football “cheers” into free fun merch when you check-in on the Sippin’ Seven Alachua County Ale Trail. Download the free digital pass earn points when you check-in to local award-winning craft brewery.
Earn Rewards in SEC Football Towns with the Visit the SEC Passport
Football season is the perfect time for the best fans in the country to get rewarded for visiting their favorite SEC cities! Use your Visit the SEC pass to check in at the top restaurants, shopping and attractions, and landmarks in your favorite college towns.
Go Behind-the-Scenes with a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer at the new Exhibit “Tom Petty: Among the Wildflowers”
Open Now through December 31, Thursday – Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. | Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
811 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Tom Petty: Among the Wildflowers explores the joys, pains, and creative awakenings that Gainesville native Tom Petty experienced while pouring his soul into his magnum opus, Wildflowers, released in November 1994. The exhibit includes artifacts previously on display at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, Ohio.
Explore three unique aspects of the Wildflowers creative process: songwriting, recording, and reception and delivery. The exhibit runs through December 31.
Chill with Cool Dinos at the New Interactive Exhibit “Antarctic Dinosaurs”
Saturday, October 7, 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Florida Museum of Natural History
3215 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611
Step back in time and 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.Photo courtesy of Bria Woods for the Witte Museum
Show Off Your Salsa Dance Moves at Hippvanna
Friday, October 6, 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. | Hippodrome Theatre
25 SE 2nd Pl., Gainesville, FL 32601
Dance the night away as DJ Elio Piedra provides the Latin dance beats all night. Bruch up on your dance skills or learn new moves at the bachata class at 9 p.m. before the dance floor opens up at 10 p.m. Enjoy a night of Latin dance and meet other dance enthusiasts.
Dive into the World of Indian Fusion Music with Dr. Susmita Datta
Sunday, October 8, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Dr. Susmitta Datta performs renderings of Indian semi-classical Hindi bhajans, ghazals and Bengali songs (ragpradhan and Nazrul-geeti). The evening also features Tamarind Free Jones with a range of styles ranging from Indian fusion to indie folk. Enjoy a cross pollination of jazz, pop and classical forms from India.
See What’s in Bloom on a Guided Tour of Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Saturday, October 7, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
4700 SW 58th Dr., Gainesville, FL 32608
Look for colorful displays in the hummingbird, butterfly and herb gardens. Kanapaha Botanical Gardens is pet-friendly and features paved pathways to navigate the beautiful botanical collections throughout the 68-acre property. The Children’s Garden features special plants, fish ponds, and waterfalls. Listen to the whistling wind create an amazingly peaceful sound in the stunning bamboo garden, the largest public display of bamboo in Florida.
Go Trick-or-Treating and Browse Plant-Based Vendors at the October Farmers “Spoo-ket”
Sunday, October 8, 12 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary
12626 NW CR 231, Gainesville, FL 32609
Meet the critters of Critter Creek and shop for produce, art, crafts and more. Kids can dress up in a Halloween costume to go trick-or-treating and earn a prize with the spooky scavenger hunt.
Critter Creek Farm Sanctuary is the largest cow sanctuary in the country with nearly 150 “moo-people.” Other residents include donkeys, pigs, turkeys, horses, a bison and water buffalo.
Don’t Miss the Final Performances of “The Crucible”
Now through Sunday, October 8 | Gainesville Community Playhouse
4039 NW 16th Blvd., Gainesville, FL 32605
The town of Salem falls into mass hysteria as a group of teenage girls accuse their neighbors of witchcraft to avoid punishment after their own dabbling in the occult. This gripping retelling of the infamous Salem witch trials explores themes of the abuse of power, the destruction caused by false accusations, and the importance of standing up for truth and justice. Don’t miss this riveting story about the purge of witchcraft in old Salem.
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Pop-Up Markets and Retail Shopping
Open House with Antiques, Live Music and More at Finch House in Micanopy
Saturday, October 7, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Shop local boutiques and national brands at Butler Enterprises, Celebration Pointe, The Oaks Mall and Shoppes at Thornebrook.
Arts & Theatre
The Color Purple: Teen Edition at Star Center Theatre
Saturday, October 7 – Saturday, October 14 | Star Center Theatre
The Color Purple is an inspiring family saga that tells the unforgettable story of a woman who, through love, finds the strength to triumph over adversity and discover her unique voice in the world.
Events & Festivals
First Friday Movie in the Park: Hocus Pocus in Downtown Newberry
Friday, October 6, 6:30 p.m.
October Draw Jam 24-hour Comics Take Over at Sequential Artists Workshop
Saturday, October 7 – Sunday, October 8
Gainesville Cars and Coffee at Ford’s Garage
Sunday, October 8, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Newberry Cornfield Maze and Haunted House
Now through Saturday, October 28
Fall on the Farm at The Bryer Patch
Friday, October 7 – Sunday, November 19, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Crossroads Farm & Apiary Fall Festival
Now through – October 31
Peanut Patch and Corn Maze
Now through – Saturday, October 28
Hollow Oaks Corn Maze
Now through – Sunday, November 5
The Gainesville Fear Garden Presents The Haunt Lab
Now through Friday, November 3
Music & Performance
Americana with The Gonzos at Lightnin’ Salvage
Thursday, October 5, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
UF Symphony Orchestra “Canvas of Time” at University Auditorium
Thursday, October 5, 7:20 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Winds and Classics with the SFC Concert Band at Santa Fe College Lyceum Concert Hall
Thursday, October 5, 7:30 p.m.
Americana with the Front Porch Backsteppers at Bingo Deli and Pub
Friday, October 6, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Classic Rock with Couch Messiahs at One Love Café
Friday, October 7, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Motown, R&B and Soul with The Browns at Lightnin’ Salvage
Friday, October 6, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Piano with Joshua Voorhies at The Bull
Friday, October 6, 7 p.m.
Pop Punk Emo Night at High Dive
Friday, October 6, 9 p.m.
Hippvanna Dance Party at the Hippodrome Theatre
Friday, October 6, 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Americana with Ward Davis at Heartwood
Saturday, October 7, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.
UF Symphony Orchestra at First Presbyterian Church
Sunday, October 8, 4 p.m.
“Psychic” Comedian Peter Antoniou at High Dive
Sunday, October 8, 3 p.m.
Comedian Jamie Lissow at High Dive
Sunday, October 8, 7 p.m.
Classic Rock with Sean Manley at Lightnin’ Salvage
Tuesday, October 10, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Rock and Roll with Duane Betts & Palmetto Motel with Cordovas at Heartwood Soundstage
Wednesday, October 11, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Craft Breweries
Add to the gameday weekend on the Sippin’ Seven Alachua Count Ale Trail. Check-in at local breweries and earn points with the free digital pass. Learn more and sign up online.
Learn more and sign up for free at VisitGainesville.com/sippinseven.
Click here and check out the most recent edition of the Sippin’ Seven On Tap newsletter featuring fun upcoming events at local breweries.
Local Craft Beer, Live Music from Sauce Pocket and Food from Rollin’ Sliders and Stubbies Sausages at Football Friday at Swamp Head Brewery
Friday, October 6, 12 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Homecoming Hangout Food Truck Rally at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Friday, October 6, 1 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Indie Rock with Ceramicats at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company
Friday, October 6, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
British Car Enthusiast Gathering at Swamp Head Brewery
Sunday, October 8, 12 p.m.
Brewery Yoga at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Sunday, October 8, 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Reggae Sunday Halloween Edition with The Easy Crew at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company
Sunday, October 8, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
U-Picks & Farmers Markets
Backyard Chickens Presentation at UF/IFAS Extension Alachua County Ag Auditorium
Tuesday, October 10, 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Grove Street Farmers Market with Live Music
Mondays, 4 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Archer Farmers Market at Archer Historical Society Railroad Museum
Tuesdays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
GNV Market at South Main Station
Thursdays, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
High Springs Farmers Market
Fridays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
NEW: Fall Farmers Market at Celebration Pointe
Thursday, October 5, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
High Springs Farmers Market
Fridays, 3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Alachua County Farmers Market
Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Haile Village 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.
NEW: Union Street Farmers Market at Bo Diddley Plaza
Wednesday, October 11, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
The Newberry Farmers Market returns Saturday, October 14
Bites and Brunch
Wine Tasting at Superette Wine and Provisions
Thursday, October 5, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, October 5, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at the Traveler Wine Bar
Thursday, September 28, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Prime & Pearl Golf Tournament at UF Mark Bostick Golf Course
Monday, October 9, registration includes dinner
(sold out) Hall of Fame on the Goal Line at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium
Friday, October 6, 6 p.m.
Sports
Live Broadcast of Gator Galk with Gators Football Head Coach Billy Napier at the Keys Grill and Piano Bar
Thursday, October 5, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Gators Soccer vs. Mississippi State at Donald R. Dizney Stadium
Thursday, October 5, 6 p.m.
Funtastic Fridays at Easton Newberry Archery Center
Friday, October 6, 5:30 p.m.
Gators Volleyball vs. Auburn and Alabama at Exactech Arena
vs. Auburn
Friday, October 6, 7 p.m.
vs. Alabama
Sunday, October 8, 1 p.m.
Spider Cup NFAA Field Round Archery at Easton Newberry Archey Center
Saturday, October 7, 9:30 a.m.
Parks & Trails
Accessible Tram Tours at Sweetwater Wetlands Park, Ongoing, Check for Availability
Friday, October 6, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.Monday, October 9, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Join a Ranger for Sunrise Walks at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Saturday, October 7, 7:30 a.m.
Free Timed 5K at Depot Park parkrun
Saturday, October 7, 7:30 a.m.
Birding Field Trip with Alachua Audubon Society at Sweetwater Wetlands Park
Saturday, October 7, 8 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Freshwater Fish and Critters of North Central Florida with Alachua Conservation Trust at Santa Fe River Preserve
Saturday, October 7, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Ranger-Led Tour at Devil’s Millhopper Geological State Park
Saturday, October 7, 10 a.m.
Park Fit: Yoga at The Millhopper at Devils Millhopper Geological State Park
Saturday, October 7, 10 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Living History Saturday at Morningside Nature Center
Saturday, October 7, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Fall Wildflower Walk at Barr Hammock Preserve
Sunday, October 8, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Barnyard Buddies at Morningside Nature Cee
Wednesday, October 11, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.
River & Springs
Springs Academy Lecture: Springs Biology at the Florida Springs Welcome Center
Tuesday, October 10, 12 p.m. – 1 p.m.
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
Linda Blondheim’s Front Porch Chili Party with Poetry and Art at Artisans’ Guild Gallery
Saturday, October 7, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Lanard Perry Presents When Gospel Meets Jazz with Special Guests at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Friday, October 6, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Break Every Chain Inaugural Master Class at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Tuesday, October 10, 11 a.m. – 2:10 p.m.
Screening of the Documentary “Mija” at the Matheson History Museum
Wednesday, October 11, 6 p.m.
Discover a Unique African American Culture at Gullah Geechee – African Connections and Cultural Traditions in America at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Now through Friday, October 13
New at the Matheson History Museum, We Are Here: Stories from Multilingual Speakers in North Central Florida
Museum Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Save The Date
Nick Carter at UF Phillips Center, October 19
Tom Petty Weekend at Heartwood Soundstage, October 20-22
Fall Plant Sale and Orchid Show at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, October 21-22
Florida Bat Festival at Lubee Bat Conservancy, October 21
How to Survive a Zombie Apocalypse, October 27-30
Dance Alive National Ballet Presents Swan Lake, October 27
48th Micanopy Fall Festival, October 28-29
42nd Annual Downtown Festival and Art Show in Downtown Gainesville, November 18-19
For a complete list of events please visit www.visitgainesville.com/events/
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