What’s Good® Guide of Weekly Events in Gainesville and Alachua County, June 13-19, 2024

What’s Good® in Gainesville and Alachua County: a weekend of pride, history and celebrations. Join the Harn Museum’s Museum Nights and the Hippodrome’s Hipp Pride 24 for vibrant Pride Month events. Leading up to Juneteenth, enjoy festivals, reenactments, and discussions that honor this historic day. The Wailers play a tribute concert to Bob Marley and the Legend album at Heartwood Soundstage. Plus don’t forget Father’s Day—treat dad with dining, outdoor adventures, and local discounts. Dive into all the excitement and make this weekend unforgettable.

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.

Kick Back at Heartwood Soundstage and Celebrate the Musical Legacy of Bob Marley with a Tribute Concert by The Wailers
Sunday, June 16, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. | Heartwood Soundstage
619 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601

In celebration of the 40^th anniversary of Bob Marley’s legendary album “Legend” and the release of biopic “Bob Marley: One Love,” join members of the original The Wailers band as they bring timeless rhythms and new voices to the stage.

Celebrate Artfully with the Harn Museum Nights: Art + Pride 2.0
Thursday, June 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Harn Museum of Art
3259 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608

Join the Harn for their annual Pride Celebration featuring a chance to strut the runway with extra special emcee, Inertia. Make an art mural, chill out with bracelet-making and take on a scavenger hunt around the museum.

😎 Summer is Heating Up, But You Know How to Stay Cool – Get Free AC with the Price of Admission at Area Museums, Art Galleries and Boutiques

Spend some time exploring the great indoors with local museum exhibits. Take home a one-of-a-kind find with art galleries and boutiques.

Ding! Find Out Why the New York Times Used “Effortlessly Endearing” to Describe the Hipp’s Musical Comedy “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”
Now through July 21 | The Hippodrome Theatre
25 SE 2nd Pl., Gainesville, FL 32601

Winner of the Tony and the Drama Desk Awards for Best Book, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences across the country with its effortless wit and humor. Grab your partners in fun and get ready for a thrilling performance, complete with audience participation.

WANT TO BE A VOLUNTEER SPELLER at The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee? When you enter the seating area look for Hippodrome Theatre staff (with the clipboards), sign up, and get ready to S-P-E-L-L! Arrive early and grab dinner downtown or enjoy a drink from the Hippodrome bar.
Photo by Michael A. Eaddy
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County

Find Out Who Keeps Calling at Stage Production of “Dead Man’s Cellphone”
Now through Sunday, June 30 | High Springs Playhouse
23416 W U.S. Hwy. 27, High Springs, FL 32643

Amidst a technologically driven society, the main character embarks on a journey that challenges commonly held notions about moral values, redemption and the nature of isolation in a world dominated by technology. This thought-provoking live theatre production will have you contemplating about an incessantly ringing cell phone in a quiet diner, a stranger at the next table who has had enough, and a dead man with a lot of loose ends.
Dead Man’s Cell Phone is written by Sarah Ruhl, directed by Sarah Hanson.
Photo: JJ Hogg as Jean and Corbin Hanson ad Dwight courtesy High Springs Playhouse

Kickoff the Weekend with Indie Rock, Folk, Country and Punk at the Loosey’s Downtown Showcase with The Enablers, Kyle Keller and Trustfall at the Free Fridays Concert Series
Friday, June 14, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Bo Diddley Plaza
Downtown Gainesville

A summer tradition, the Free Fridays Concert Series is the region’s largest and longest-running free outdoor concert series featuring performances on Friday nights in downtown Gainesville. Enjoy food and drinks from nearby cafes and restaurants within walking distance. Admission is free.

Learn About Sea Turtles with a VR Simulation, Hands-on Specimens and a Scavenger Hunt at World Sea Turtle Day
Sunday, June 16, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Florida Museum of Natural History
3215 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611

Join the Florida Museum and Archie Carr Center for Sea Turtle Research and learn about sea turtles and how to protect them. Step into the flippers of a loggerhead turtle with the VR simulation Project S.H.E.L.L. Speak with researchers about sea turtle conservation and careers in marine biology.

Treat Dad to a Well-Deserved Day Off with Father’s Day Offers and Events
All dads and father figures of all kinds deserve a break. This Father’s Day weekend, Visit Gainesville, Alachua County has your back with a list of activities and offers sure to help make your loved one feel special and appreciated.

UF/IFAS Family Fishing Day at UF Fishing Ponds
Saturday, June 15, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Father’s Day Fest at Alachua County Farmers Market
Saturday, June 15, 8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Father’s Day Sale and Kid’s Fishing Event at Bass Pro Shops
Saturday, June 15 – Sunday, June 16, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Free Admission for Dads at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Sunday, June 16, 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

High Tea with Dad at Teatime Tranquility and Treasures
Sunday, June 16, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Dads Throw Free at The Hatchetbury Axe Throwing Bar
Sunday, June 16, 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Journey to Juneteenth, A Season of Freedom: From Emancipation to National Celebration
Now through Thursday, June 20 | Multiple Venues

Multiple events are slated throughout Gainesville to celebrate the fourth annual Journey to Juneteenth: Florida Emancipation to National Celebration. Join the City of Gainesville’s month-long “Journey to Juneteenth” celebration, from Florida Emancipation Day, May 20, through the Juneteenth holiday, June 19.

Journey to Juneteenth Freedom Walk 5K Starting at Depot Park
Saturday, June 15, 7 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Freedom Fest 2024 Music and Arts Festival at Bo Diddley Plaza
Saturday, June 15, 3 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Tha Cookout: A Juneteenth & Fatherhood Celebration at Cynthia Chestnut Park
Sunday, June 16, 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Justice on Trial – Reloaded: Off Broadway Play at Upper Room Ministries
Sunday, June 16, 6 p.m.

“Juneteenth: Honoring the Journey to Freedom – Reflection and Resilience – and Still We Rise” at Santa Fe College Blount Center
Tuesday, June 18, 12 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Juneteenth Breakfast at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Wednesday, June 19, 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Journey to Juneteenth: The Jubilee at Bo Diddley Plaza
Wednesday, June 19, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Juneteenth Story Time for Ages 5 and Under at Depot Park
Thursday, June 20, 10:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Experience the Vibrant Spirit of Pride All Month Long in Gainesville and Alachua County this June
Alachua County is proud to be a welcoming destination for all, celebrating LGBTQ+ Pride both in June and October each year.

Celebrate diversity, equality and love with the following events and activities. Check back to see What’s Good each week as we update this section with new listings.

The Hippodrome Theatre hosts Hipp Pride 24 with the Following Events:

Basement Sessions: Pride Edition
Thursday, June 13

Hipp Cinema Pride Movies
Friday, June 14 – Sunday, June 16

Story Time with a Mermaid
Saturday, June 15

Pride at the Drive at Ironwood Golf Course
Saturday, June 15, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

What’s The Tea Drag Cabaret Pride Edition for Ages 21+ at Baby J’s Bar
Saturday, June 15, 9 p.m.

Artist Pop-Up and Live Embroidery Patch Making at the Pride Party at 108 Vine
Sunday, June 22, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Drag Bingo at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Thursday, June 27, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

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Pop-Up Markets and Retail Shopping

Pop-Up Flea and Farmers Market at VFW 2811
Saturday, June 15, 8 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

Arts & Theatre

Doxa Dance Studio Presents Aladdin at UF Phillips Center
Friday, June 14, 6:30 p.m., Saturday, June 15, 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m.

(sold out) Follow the Emcee into the Acrosstown Repertory Theatre Production of “Cabaret”
Now through Sunday, June 23
Experience the seduction and danger of the Kit Kat Club hosted by the insidiously charming Emcee. Acrosstown Repertory Theatre begins its sold-out run of Tony Award-winning Cabaret.

Events & Festivals

2024 International Piano Festival at UF School of Music
Thursday, June 13 – Saturday, June 15

Donuts and Drawing at Good News Arts
Friday, June 14, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Summer Splash Days with Newberry Main Street Organization
Friday, June 14, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Book Discussion with Annabelle Tometich, Author of The Mango Tree at The Lynx Books
Friday, June 14, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

(Sold Out) Single Day Hatchet Blacksmithing Workshop at Crooked Path Forge
Saturday, June 15, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Book Signing with Author of 12 Trips in 12 Months Jen Ruiz at Barnes and Noble
Saturday, June 15, 12 p.m.

Weave a Juneteenth Celebration at Alachua County Library District Archer Branch
Saturday, June 15, 2 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

ArtSpace: Juneteenth Mud Cloth at Alachua County Library District Waldo Branch
Saturday, June 15, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Summer of Soul Movie Night at Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Saturday, June 15, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Sip and Stroll: Tour of the Hippodrome Theatre for Ages 21+
Sunday, June 16, 5 p.m.

Paper Chain Craft Celebrating Juneteenth at Alachua County Library District Hawthorne Branch
Tuesday, June 18, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Music & Performance

Americana, Folk Duo Admiral Radio at Lightnin’ Salvage
Thursday, June 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Gator Salsa Dance Lessons and Social Dancing at The Bull
Thursday, June 13, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Singer-Songwriter Sunny Sweeney at Heartwood Soundstage
Thursday, June 13, 8 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Hip Hop, Soul, Jazz and More All Vinyl Set with DJ Zion Orpheus at Baby J’s Bar
Thursday, June 13, 9 p.m.

Singer-Songwriter Listing Room Series with Mei and Dan Perea at The Bull
Friday, June 14, 6 p.m.

Rhythms of Paradise with Thomas Anthony at Bahama Breeze
Friday, June 15, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Pre-War Blues with John Ford at Lightnin’ Salvage
Friday, June 14, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Classic Rock with Wild Blue Yonder at One Love Café
Friday, June 14, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Dr. Jules’ Cool Blues at Top Hog BBQ, Bourbon and Blues
Saturday, June 15, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Folk, Country and Rock with Random Kats at the Great Outdoors Restaurant
Saturday, June 15, 6:45 p.m.

Pop Punk and Emo Night of Gainesville at Vivid Music Hall
Saturday, June 15, 10 p.m. – 2 a.m.

Singer Songwriter Listening Room Series with Ramber Kane and A. Sunroom at The Bull
Sunday, June 16, 7 p.m.

Traditional Irish Session at Lightnin’ Salvage
Tuesday, June 18, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Jazz with Dave and the Hiptones at One Love Café
Wednesday, June 19, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Live Album Recording with Pop-Rock Pianist Victoria Griffin at Heartwood Soundstage
Wednesday, June 19, 7 p.m.

Craft Breweries

Visit a local craft brewery and grab some refreshment this summer. After a day exploring the outdoors or the great indoors, sample what’s on tap or grab craft brews to go at an award-winning brewery. For ages under 21, look for refreshing house-made sodas and seltzers.

Pints and Postures Yoga at High Springs Brewing Company
Thursday, June 13, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Blues with John Ford at High Springs Brewing Company
Thursday, June 13, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Country and Classic Rock with The New River Band at High Springs Brewing Company
Friday, June 14, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Bunnies at the Brewery! Adoption Event with Gainesville Rabbit Rescue at Blackadder Brewing Company
Saturday, June 15, 2 p.m. – 6 p.m.

Classic Rock with Late 4 Class at High Springs Brewing Company
Saturday, June 15, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Family-Friendly Monday Movie Night Under the Stars at High Springs Brewing Company
Monday, June 17, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.

U-Picks and Farmers Markets

Book Online for Blueberry Picking at Deep Spring Farm
Tuesdays – Saturdays through June 29, 8 a.m. – 10:30 a.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.

Last Farmers Market Before the Summer 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 for Ages 21+ at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, June 6, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Wine Tasting for Ages 21+ at the Traveler Wine Bar
Thursday, June 6, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Wine Tasting for Ages 21+ at Superette
Thursday, June 6, 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Cider Tasting with Dry Wrought Cider for Ages 21+ at The Good Pour
Saturday, June 15, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Jazz Brunch at Covey Kitchen and Cocktails
Sunday, June 16, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Sports & Fans

FABC Girls Showcase Basketball Tournament at Alachua County Sports and Events Center
Thursday, June 13 – Saturday, June 15

Friday Street Legal Madness at Gainesville Raceway
Friday, June 14, 6 p.m.

Gainesville Roller Rebels vs. Swan City Roller Derby at MLK Jr. Multipurpose Center
Saturday, June 15, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.

frank hawley drag racing school race car

Frank Hawley’s Drag Racing School at Gainesville Raceway
Tuesday, June 18 – Wednesday, June 19, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Parks & Trails

colorful illustration of bird with binoculars and text "lets go birding together"

Let’s Go Birding Together” LGBTQ+ Inclusive Birding Expedition with Alachua Audubon Society at Loblolly Woods Nature Park
Sunday, June 16, 8:30 a.m. – 10 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

Opening Reception: My Journey by Bob Senesac at GFAA
Friday, June 14, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Docent-Led Tour at the Harn Museum of Art
Saturday, June 15, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Summer of Soul Movie Screening at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Saturday, June 15, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Tot Trot: Rainbows for Ages 2-5 at the Florida Museum of Natural History
Tuesday, June 18, 9 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

Science Up Close: Incredible Insects at Florida Museum of Natural History
Now through September 2
Photo courtesy Florida Museum/Jeff Gage

Save The Date

Pollinator Palooza at First Magnitude Brewing Company, June 22

Fair Oaks Art Soiree, June 22

Gainesville Big Band “Funk in the Trunk”, June 23

WUFT’s Fanfares and Fireworks, July 3

City of Alachua Annual Fourth of July Celebration, July 4

City of Archer Red White and Boom!, July 6

For a complete list of events please visit www.visitgainesville.com/events/

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