What’s Good® Weekly Guide of Events in Gainesville and Alachua County, May 30 – June 5, 2024
Find art, live performances and outdoor adventures this weekend with What’s Good. Visit galleries and artists at the Artwalk Gainesville tour. The Hippodrome Theatre’s summer musical spells F-U-N with “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee.” The Impostors perform hits from The Beatles at the Free Fridays Concert Series at Bo Diddley Plaza. See what’s in bloom on a guided walk at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens or join a birding walk at First Magnitude Brewing Company. Plus, find our list of local events to celebrate Pride Month.
The Alachua County Commission has dedicated space on the ground floor of the county building for a poignant exhibit on racial violence. Together with the Alachua County Community Remembrance Project committee (ACCRP) and the UF Center for the Humanities and the Public Sphere, and with support from the Rothman Fund, the county invites the community for a special program and unveiling of the “Soil Collection Jar Exhibit Honoring Victims of Lynching.”
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Be Informed: The below information was accurate at the time of publishing.
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Make Time for “F-U-N” at the Opening Weekend of the Hippodrome’s Summer Musical Comedy, “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee”
Friday, May 31 – July 21 | The Hippodrome Theatre
25 SE 2nd Pl., Gainesville, FL 32601
Eight spellers enter; one speller leaves when an eclectic group of young people compete in the spelling championship of a lifetime. While disclosing hilarious and touching stories from their home lives, they spell their way through a series of (potentially made-up) words, hoping never to hear the soul-crushing “ding,” signaling a spelling mistake. Arrive early and grab dinner in downtown Gainesville or enjoy a drink from the Hippodrome bar.
Photo by Michael A. Eaddy
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
“Wine Down” with Jazz and Desserts at the Harn Museum’s Art After Dark
Thursday, May 30, 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Harn Museum of Art
3259 Hull Rd., Gainesville, FL 32608
Explore art galleries in a unique way as the Harn Museum of Art stays open late. Enjoy music from the Porch Swing jazz ensemble with Kali Geige. Nosh at the dessert bar with wine and beer provided by Blue Gill Quality Food. View current exhibitions online.
Attend a Special Program for the Unveiling of the “Soil Collection Jar Exhibit Honoring Victims of Lynching”
Saturday, June 1, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. | West Lawn of the Alachua County Administration Building
12 SE 1st St., Gainesville, FL 32601
The Alachua County Community Remembrance Project committee (ACCRP), the Alachua County Commission, and the UF Center for the Humanities and the Public Sphere, with support from the Rothman Fund, invite the community to the unveiling of the Soil Collection Jar Exhibit Honoring Victims of Lynching. This event is free and open to all and includes guest speakers, a dance performance, live music and food. The exhibit will be viewed in guided groups of 15 to 20 people. Please click here for full event details.
Visit with Local Artists and Explore Gallery Spaces at the Self-Guided Artwalk Gainesville Tour
Friday, May 31, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Multiple Venues
May’s featured venues include 17 stops across Gainesville. Black C Art features the “Pig Prop Sculpture” by Lorelei Esser, Clown Show paintings by Tom Miller at The Bull, local artsists and music with DJ Outhaus at Artology, a solo exhibition by Milan Hooper at the Hippodrome Gallery, landscape photography by Josh Milliken at Bingo Deli and Pub and more.
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
Browse Diverse Ceramic Creations at the Gainesville Fine Arts Association Artwalk Reception “From Land to Sea: Clay Exploration”
Friday, May 31, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. | GFAA Gallery
1314 S Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601
This GFAA exhibit is one of the stops on the Artwalk Gainesville tour. From Land to Sea features the works of Veronica Villasenor and Marcelo Buzzi. Enjoy live music and free refreshments. Admission is free.
Sponsored in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County
From Land to Sea kicks off a series of week-long artist-curated exhibitions:
Invitations to Presence with Melody Lozano
Tuesday, June 4 – Saturday, June 8
My Journey with Bob Senesac
Tuesday, June 11 – Saturday, June 15
Botany to Bimorphia with Linda McVay
Tuesday, June 18 – Saturday, June 22
View Mixed Media Reflections at Artwalk Gainesville at Artisans’ Guild Gallery
Friday, May 31, 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. | Artisans Guild Gallery
224 NW 2nd Ave., Gainesville, FL 32601
During Artwalk Gainesville, visit Artisans’ Guild Gallery featuring artist Cindy Hirt and a display of her newest techniques fusing photos onto glass and woven glass incorporated into mixed-media mirrors. Enjoy light refreshments and music from Eric Diamond.
Get on Your Feet with Hits from The Beatles by The Impostors at the Free Fridays Concert Series
Friday, May 24, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Bo Diddley Plaza
Downtown Gainesville
The Impostors, formed in 1984, are one of Gainesville’s most popular local groups featuring some of the area’s most accomplished musicians. 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.
Ace Those Dance Moves with Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream at the Groovin’ on the Green Concert Series
Friday, May 31, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. | Ironwood Golf Course
2100 NE 39th Ave., Gainesville, FL 32609
Ironwood Golf Course provides a preserved nature setting as the backdrop for the Groovin’ on the Green Concert Series. Friday’s concert features Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream, a 10-piece band performing hits from contemporary artists like Bruno Mars, Harry Styles, and Maroon Five along with classics from Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, The Doobie Brothers, and The Temptations.
Find Out Who Can Cook Up the Best Barbecue at the Sweet Meat BBQ Bash
Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Sweet Meat Butcher Shop
18172 NW US Hwy 441, High Springs, FL 32643
The first annual BBQ bash features a family-friendly event to find the best bbq pitmaster. Enjoy a bounce house with inflatable axe-throwing and music from Kiss 105.3 FM. Backyard cooks compete in the open division. Professional teams from Florida and Georgia battle for the championship belt in the professional category. The Sweet Meat BBQ food truck is on site serving up their own award-winning barbecue.
Hop on a Guided Bird Walk from First Magnitude Brewing Company to Depot Park and Back with Birds and Brews
Sunday, June 2, 5:45 p.m. – 7 p.m. | First Magnitude Brewing Company
1220 SE Veitch St., Gainesville, FL 32601
Volunteers from Alachua Audubon Society lead a guided tour identifying bird species. All birding skill levels are welcome on this informal walk. Bring your binoculars or borrow a loaner pair. The walk concludes at the brewery with plenty of time to enjoy a night cap as the sun sets.
Get Outdoors and Unwind on a Guided Walk at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
4700 SW 58th Dr., Gainesville, FL 32608
Stroll through pet-friendly paved pathways and view plant collections spanning the 68-acre property. See what’s in bloom at the end of spring and visit the tranquil bamboo garden, the largest public display of bamboo in Florida.
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.
Queer Makers Market at 4th Ave Food Park
Sunday, June 2, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Pride Party at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Saturday, June 8, 2 p.m. – 10 p.m.
My Big Fat Gay BBQ with the Pride Community Center of North Central Florida
Sunday, June 9, 4 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Art After Dark Museum Nights: Art + Pride 2.0 at the Harn Museum of Art
Thursday, June 13, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Pride at the Drive at Ironwood Golf Course
Saturday, June 15, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Drag Bingo at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Thursday, June 27, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
The Hippodrome Theatre hosts Hipp Pride 24 with the Following Events:
Scene Queens: Anniversary
Monday, June 10
Hipp Unplugged: Dike by Hannah Benitez
Tuesday, June 11
Hipp Unplugged: Saint Bridgit by Hannah Benitez (World Premiere)
Wednesday, June 12
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
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Pop-Up Markets and Retail Shopping
Italy-themed Sip and Shop and One Year Anniversary at J.Crew Factory
Friday, May 31, 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Vintage, Local Vendors and More at the 2nd Anniversary Night Market at 108 Vine
Friday, May 31, 6 p.m.
Yard Sale at Curia on the Drag and The AUK Market
Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Gainesville Indoor Flea Market Grand Opening
Friday, May 31 – Sunday, June 2, 9 a.m.
Clothing, Jewelry, Plants, Art and More at Bazar À La Carte at How Bazar
Saturday, June 1, 6 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Arts & Theatre
Set Sail with Gainesville Community Playhouse at “Treasure Island”
Now through Sunday, June 9
Picture a world where pirates rule. Adapted by Ken Ludwig, this epic tale is a swashbuckling adventure that is out of this world, featuring treasure, romance, treachery and mayhem.
Summer Theatre Coming Soon
Dead Man’s Cellphone at High Springs Playhouse
Friday, June 7 – Sunday, June 30
An incessantly ringing cell phone in a quite diner. A stranger at the next table who has had enough. And a dead man with a lot of loose ends.
Cabaret at Acrosstown Repertory Theatre
Friday, June 7 – Sunday, June 23
Experience the seduction and danger of the Kit Kat Club hosted by the insidiously charming Emcee.
In The Heights at Gainesville Community Playhouse
Friday, July 19 – Sunday, August 11
In the Heights, created by Lin-Manuel Miranda, tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood.
The Wizard of Oz Youth Edition at High Springs Playhouse
Thursday, July 25 – Sunday, August 4
Follow the Yellow Brick Road through the Land of Oz.
Events & Festivals
Summer Sizzler 1 Dressage at Alachua County Agriculture and Equestrian Center
Saturday, June 1 – Sunday, June 2
Polymer Clay Workshop with Aviella Creations at 108 Vine
Thursday, May 30 or Friday, May 31, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
“Bark in the Park” Free Microchipping and Vaccinations Drive-Thru Event for Dogs: at Depot Park
Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Free for Alachua County residents, limited to dogs only
Automotive Enthusiast Gathering at Gainesville Cars and Coffee at Tioga Town Center
Saturday, June 1, 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Macramé Plant Hanger Workshop at Unique Notions
Saturday, June 1, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
History Bike Gainesville at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Saturday, June 1, 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Journey to Juneteenth Documentary Screening: In Our Right Mind at the Cotton Club Museum and Cultural Center
Sunday, June 2, 5 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Learn Arts and Crafts with Classes and Workshops with the Alachua County Library District:
ArtSpace: Hand-building with Modeling Clay at Alachua County Library District Waldo Branch
Saturday, June 1, 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Learn to Stitch Series: Crochet at Alachua County Library District Alachua Branch
Sunday, June 2, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
ArtSpace: Watercolor Painting at Alachua County Library District Hawthorne Branch
Monday, June 3, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Music & Performance
Blues with Little Mike and The Tornadoes at One Love Café
Thursday, May 30, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Americana with the Front Porch Duo at Lightnin’ Salvage
Thursday, May 30, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Comedian Josh Pray with Special Guests at The Wooly
Thursday, May 30, 8 p.m.
Country and Rock with Southern Burn at The Great Outdoors Restaurant
Friday, May 31, 6:45 p.m.
Country and Rock with Alan Benjamin at Watershed Restaurant
Friday, May 31, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Singer-Songwriter Josh Nettles at Pink Flamingo
Friday, May 31, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Rock with Anybuddy and Persons Unknown at How Bazar
Friday, May 31, 7 p.m.
Jazz with Wave Mechanics at Baby J’s Bar
Friday, May 31, 9 p.m.
Classic Rock with 8-Track Revival at Mother’s Pub North
Friday, May 31, 9 p.m. – 1 a.m.
‘90s and ‘00s Dance Party with DJ Cam at The Atlantic
Friday, May 31, 10 p.m.
Classic Rock with The Shambles at One Love Café
Saturday, June 1, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Chamber-Folk with The Wire Birds at Heartwood Soundstage
Saturday, June 1, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Blues and Americana with Bill Ricci at Top Hog BBQ Bourbon and Blues
Saturday, June 1, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Bossa Nova, Free Soul and More with an All Vinyl Set form DJ Don Miller at Baby J’s Bar
Saturday, June 1, 9 p.m.
Dark Futures Dance Party with DJs Wild Creatrix and Baby Goth Back at The Midnight
Saturday, June 1, 10 p.m.
Electronic Music at Sail at The Atlantic
Saturday, June 1, 10 p.m.
Tribute Show Celebrating the Life of Paco at Heartwood Soundstage
Sunday, June 2, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
The Hogtown Rounders Writers Round at Lightnin’ Salvage
Tuesday, June 4, 6 p.m. – 9 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.
Pints and Postures Yoga at High Springs Brewing Company
Thursday, May 30, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Country with Cam Wheaton at High Springs Brewing Company
Thursday, May 30, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Drag Bingo at First Magnitude Brewing Company
Thursday, May 30, 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Singer-Songwriter Matthew Brown at Daft Cow Brewery
Friday, May 31, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Classic Rock with The Killer B’s at High Springs Brewing Company
Friday, May 31, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Blues with Terraplane at High Springs Brewing Company
Saturday, June 1, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Night on the Nile Belly Dancing at Blackadder Brewing Company
Saturday, June 1, 7 p.m. – 9 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.
U-Pick Blueberries at Bluefield Estate Winery
Thursday, May 30 – Friday, May 31, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday, June 1 – Sunday, June 2, 9 a.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.
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, May 30, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Thursday, May 30, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting at the Traveler Wine Bar
Thursday, May 30, 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Wine Tasting with BV (Beaulieu Vineyard) Wines at The Good Pour
Friday, May 31, 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Hands-on Kimchi Workshop at Amazing Grace Gardens
Saturday, June 1, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
June Wine Class Series: Discover the Wines of Italy at Beaker and Flask Wine Co.
Saturday, June 1, 4:30 p.m.
Jazz Brunch at Covey Kitchen and Cocktails
Sunday, June 2, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
(sold out) Fresh Pasta and Pesto Cooking Class at the Fat Tuscan
Sunday, June 2, 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Kids Pizza Making: Junior Pizzaiolo Class at V Pizza
Monday, June 3, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., online reservation required
Sports & Fans
5v5 Soccer Tournament at Jonesville Soccer Park
Saturday, June 1, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunshine State Games Swimming at Dwight H. Hunter (Northeast) Pool
Friday, May 31 – Sunday, June 2
Scorpion Racing E.T. Bracket Series Drag Racing at Gainesville Raceway
Saturday, June 1 – Sunday, June 2
Premier Girls Fastpitch Softball Tournament at Champions Park
Saturday, June 1 – Sunday, June 2
5th Annual Summer Jam Fest Basketball Tournament at Alachua County Sports and Events Center
Friday, May 31 – Saturday, June 1
Parks & Trails
Animal Ambassadors, Birding, Snow Cones and More at Creek Family Fest with Alachua Conservation Trust at Tuscawilla Preserve
Saturday, June 1, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Free Timed 5K with parkrun at Depot Park
Saturday, June 1, 7:30 a.m.
Birding with Alachua Audubon Society at the “June Challenge Kickoff” at Longleaf Flatwoods Reserve
Saturday, June 1, 6 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Birding Walk with Alachua Audubon Society at San Felasco Hammock Preserve State Park Moonshine Creek Trail
Sunday, June 2, 7:30 a.m. – 10 a.m.
Perspectives in the Park: Final Wishes for a Sustainable Future at Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Center
Sunday, June 2, 12 p.m. – 1 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
Otro Mundo es Posible: Queer Latinx Joy in Florida, Panel Discussion with Moderator Cecilia Luna at the Matheson History Museum
Saturday, June 1, 4 p.m.
Maker Workshop: 3D Modeling – Oceans at the Cade Museum for Creativity and Invention
Saturday, June 1, 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
SOFT – Tradition to Rebellion in Fiber Arts at The Historic Thomas Center
Now through Friday, August 23
New at the Harn Museum of Art: Kaleidoscope of Colors in Asian Art
Now through April 26, 2026
Science Up Close: Incredible Insects at Florida Museum of Natural History
Now through September 2
Photo courtesy Florida Museum/Jeff Gage
Save The Date
Dead Man’s Cell Phone at High Springs Playhouse, June 7-30
The Wailers at Heartwood Soundstage, June 16
For a complete list of events please visit www.visitgainesville.com/events/
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