Festivals and Special Events

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free fridays concert at bo diddley plaza in downtown gainesville

Now through Friday, September 26, 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Enjoy music under the stars Friday nights April–September in downtown Gainesville at Bo Diddley Plaza.

our town home and garden show

Saturday, August 23 – Sunday, August 24
Get inspired by home improvement ideas, landscaping tips and expert advice.

gainesville latino film festival

Thursday, September 11 -Monday, September 29
Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized with weeks of film viewings and educational talks from filmmakers.

University of Florida Homecoming Parade and Gator Growl
Friday, October 17
See the largest student-run homecoming parade and pep-rally in the country featuring floats, bands and more. Friday night’s “Gator Growl” is the place to gather for live music, entertainers and food trucks

The FEST in Downtown Gainesville
Friday, October 24 – Sunday, October 26
Thousands of music fans from around the world celebrate three days of independent music, comedians and wrestling.

Fall Plant Sale and Orchid Show at Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Saturday, October 25, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Bring a picnic and explore 68 acres of blooming gardens all visually accessible from the 1.5 mile paved walkway. View award winning orchids, browse a variety of plants for sale and more.

Florida Bat Festival at Lubee Bat Conservancy
Saturday, October 25, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Meet live bats and learn about their vital role in the environment at Lubee Bat Conservancy. Enjoy live music, family activities, food trucks, and fall fun.

Pride Festival
The annual Pride Festival celebrates diversity at Bo Diddley Plaza with vendors, entertainment and food.

Micanopy Fall Festival
Saturday, November 1, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m – Sunday, November 2, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Take in this gorgeous historic (and very Instagram-able) town. Browse gifts from regional and national artists and crafters. Enjoy talented musicians and a wide selection of tasty food vendors.

Tom Petty Weekend at Heartwood Soundstage
Friday, November 7 – Sunday, November 9
Celebrate the birthday of Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Tom Petty in his hometown. A collection of artists and storytellers perform from indoor and outdoor stages at Heartwood Soundstage.

Downtown Festival and Art Show in Downtown Gainesville
Saturday, November 15 – Sunday, November 16, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Begin your holiday shopping with 240 of the nation’s finest artists at this nationally recognized art festival. Three stages of live music and diverse culinary offerings add to the family-friendly and festive atmosphere.

Infinity Con at Alachua County Sports and Events Center
Saturday, November 15, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. – Sunday, November 16, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Join comic book and anime lovers at this annual festival celebrating all things fandom.

Flying Pig Parade
December
Join Gainesville’s whimsical Flying Pig Parade, featuring more than 60 quirky performers, giant puppets and dancing dinosaurs in a festive downtown celebration.

Downtown Countdown New Year’s Eve Celebration and Sparks in the Park
Wednesday, December 31, 6 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Ring in the New Year in Gainesville’s vibrant downtown, starting with fireworks at Depot Park, then count down to midnight with live bands at Bo Diddley Plaza.


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