Upcoming Events
This section lists family events and kids events happening in the Gainesville area. This includes places to see Santa, places to see holiday lights, holiday happenings, shows, fairs, carnivals, concerts, exhibits, and other special events or places of interest that may only be open for select times of year.
Featured Listings
O2BKids Morning Magic Open House
10:15AM - 12Noon
FREE
Join us and bring a friend. Join us for a magical morning of fun and learning with your child. Our Morning Magic Program combines playtime, classes and fun for children 0 to 5 years old and their parents. Learn about the variety of classes offered for your child, enjoy the Morning Magic Show, visit with our special guests, learn and discover in our art, music, science and gymnastic classes, and so much more. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!
Supercenter: 6680 West Newberry Road, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 332-5500
www.o2bkids.com
Where the Sidewalk Ends: Youth Arts Festival
9:00AM - 3:00PM
Admission is free, but some children's activities may have a fee
Third annual Where the Sidewalk Ends: Family Arts Festival to celebrate Youth Art Month. The festival includes art vendors, music, food, art activities, art demonstrations, live reenactments and family-friendly organizations. Plus kids activities like painting, sidewalk chalk, bounce houses, petting zoo, hoola hoops, face painting, make and take projects, story times and much more.
Youth Art Sale for children ages 4-14
Do you have a collection of original art work you would like to sell? Please sign up to be a vendor at our art festival. There are no fees to sign up. Your time slot will be 2 hours with 15 minutes for set up and break down. Space is limited to card table size. If you do not have a card table one will be provided for you. Please let us know in advance what you will be selling. Sign up soon- the first 15 applicants are guaranteed a spot.
Thornebrook Shopping Village Gainesville, FL 32606
www.yoppinc.com
Gainesville Community Fest
10:00AM - 6:00PM
Ages 13 & up: $5 advance, $7.50 at event
Students (ID Required): $5 advance, $6.00 at event
Children ages 5 to 12: $3 advance, $5.50 at event
Children under 5: Free
GainesvilleActivities.com strives to encourage Gainesville residents to buy local, play local and stay local. In order to further this mission, we are hosting Gainesville Community Fest. The purpose of this event is to showcase Gainesville’s local businesses, clubs, and nonprofit organizations and facilitate interaction between participants and exhibitors. In addition, a portion of Gainesville Community Fest proceeds will help Kids Kicking Cancer bring relief to children in Pain!
Gainesville Community Fest attendees will begin their adventure in the 25,000 sf exhibition hall where they may interact with representatives from more than 100 exhibiting organizations. Vendors include companies and clubs such as: the Florida Speleological Society, the Gainesville Cycling Club, the Gainesville Adventure Meetup Group, the Gainesville Rock Gym, Gator CrossFit, the Gainesville Dining and Nightlife Meetup Group, and many more.
Outside the exhibition hall, attendees will enjoy exciting attractions such as lions and tigers from Single Vision, elephant rides from All About Elephants, a rock climbing wall provided by the Gainesville Rock Gym, an archery range from the Newberry Sports Complex, live music from local Gainesville bands, martial arts demonstrations, a mini Gainesville Art Walk, local food, beverages and much more.
5209 SW 91st Dr Gainesville, FL 32608 / (352)335-7777
www.gainesvillecommunityfest.com
Listings
Sun Country Valentines Day Sleepover
6:30PM - 9:00AM the next day
$35 for members in advance / $45 Non-Members in Advance
$50 everyone at the door / Siblings Half Price
Come join us at our Valentines Sleepover session. Gymnastics, Rock Climbing, Kidquest, Games, Movies, Snacks, Pizza, Breakfast and lots of fun! All the activities with plenty of supervision.
333 SW 140th Terrace, Jonesville, FL 32669 / (352) 331-8773
www.suncountrysports.com
4H Shooting Sports Open House Event
10:00AM - 12:00PM
FREE
The public is invited to Gator Skeet & Trap Club in Gainesville to learn about the Alachua County 4-H Shooting Sports Program. The Shooting Sports Program consists of three disciplines; Shotgun, Archery, and Air Rifle. Beginners and experienced shooters will learn the basics of archery, shotgun safety, shooting, and the fun of trap and skeet. (Shotgun is age 10 – 18 & Air Rifle/Archery is age 8 – 18). Enrollment in 4-H is not required to attend this Open House
Gator Skeet & Trap Club: 5202 NE 46th Avenue, Gainesville, FL, 32609
For more information, call Matt Benge at (352)955-2402
For more information, call Matt Benge at (352)955-2402
www.alachua.ifas.ufl.edu
Hod Rodding for Heroes
11:00AM
FREE
The Hot Rodding for Heroes Classic Auto Tour and Show is proudly hosted by two of the most picturesque and charming settings that North Florida has to offer: the Haile Plantation Village Center and the Haile Plantation Golf and Country Club. The show portion will start with the tour's arrival at 11:00am, which is open free to the public. Cars will be distributed throughout the Village Center and Golf Course, along with area vendors, a child's area, R/C race track, live music, and a host of other amenities.
Haile Village Center and Haile Golf and Country Club, Gainesville, FL 32608
www.hotroddingforheroes.org
Sprout's Valentines Sleepover
$35/ child including dinner, snacks and a continental breakfast the next morning.
How long has it been since you were able to go out for a nice Valentine's dinner? Bring the kiddos to us this year and plan an evening to yourselves! We are planning a series of games, arts & crafts, cooking activities, movies, scavenger hunts and much more.
14911 Main Street, Alachua, FL 32616 / (386) 418-0006
Click here for details
FLMNH Ask a Paleontologist
1:30PM - 3:30PM
FREE
Florida is full of fossils! Take advantage of this opportunity to talk with Museum paleontologists and ask what you might find in your backyard. Bring your fossils and questions for an afternoon of discovery and learning.
Florida Museum of Natural History: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
Questions? Call (352) 273-2061
Questions? Call (352) 273-2061
Click here for more information
Anna Moo Concert at the little shop
10:00AM and 3:00PM
$3 for members / $10 for non-members. Includes a snack and craft activity
Join us for some moosical fun with songs from local singer, songwriter, Anna Moo! We will be celebrating Valentine's Day and making a craft!!
The Little Shop at Tioga Town Center: 12921 SW 1st Road Suite 117, Newberry, FL 32669 / (352) 505-0466
www.thelittleshopgnv.com
www.annamoo.com
O2BKids Morning Magic Open House
10:15AM - 12Noon
FREE
Join us and bring a friend. Join us for a magical morning of fun and learning with your child. Our Morning Magic Program combines playtime, classes and fun for children 0 to 5 years old and their parents. Learn about the variety of classes offered for your child, enjoy the Morning Magic Show, visit with our special guests, learn and discover in our art, music, science and gymnastic classes, and so much more. WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!
Supercenter: 6680 West Newberry Road, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 332-5500
www.o2bkids.com
Loga Springs Academy Free Play Therapy Class
6:00PM - 7:00PM
FREE
Free play therapy workshop for parents and children. Reservations required.
Loga Springs Academy is a year-round coeducational day school for exceptional, gifted, and capable children.
931 NE 16th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32605
For more information on the class, call 352) 514-8701
www.logasprings.org
For more information on the class, call 352) 514-8701
Shakespeare Festival
1:00PM - 2:30 PM
FREE
Each year M3S Roxx the Bard with our Shakespeare Unit in Literature. We read several Shakespeare plays and sonnets, study cultural aspects of the time and learn all about the life of William Shakespeare. Creating a Theatrical Portfolio, we pen our own scene from one the playwrite's tales. This portfolio includes: cultural overview of scene and play, a re-written script, character analysis,and description, props list and costume sketch.
Thomas Center Spanish Court: 302 NE Sixth Ave., Gainesville, FL, 32601 / (352) 375-6773
Click here for more information
5 Points of Life Kids Marathon
9:00 AM
FREE
This is an extension of the Five Points of Life Marathon for adults. The goal of the Kids Marathon is to promote good health and physical fitness by giving kids the opportunity to accomplish the goal of running an entire 26.2 miles, just like marathoners! The difference is that the kids will be running and training the distance between now and race day. They will complete the final 1.2 mile run on Saturday, February 18th.
Eligibility
Kids in kindergarten through 8th grade are eligible. Kids must have completed 25 miles prior to Saturday, February 18th, and bring their log sheet to registration, signed by a parent/guardian, and register online by February 15th, at packet pick up on Friday, February 18th or the day of the race.
Medals: This is not a competitive race. Every child that has a marathon number and crosses the finish line will receive a commemorative medal for completing a full marathon!
Click here for more information.
Family Day at the Harn
1:00PM - 4:00 PM
A donation of $2 per child or $5 per family is requested if participating in the art-making activity.
Bring your family to discover the new exhibition, "Verdant Earth and Teeming Seas: The Natural World in Ancient American Art." At this Family Day, family-friendly guided tours will be followed by an opportunity to create art inspired by the earth and seas.
UF Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611 / (352) 392-9826
www.harn.ufl.edu
Olustee Battle Festival and Battle Re-Enactment
FREE
Annual re-enactment of a Civil War Battle between the North and the South. Hundreds of re-enactors come from miles around to participate in this historical event.
Olustee Battlefield State Park. 13 miles East on US90 - Near Olustee, Florida.
www.olusteefestival.com
Soul of Broadway
Saturday, February 18th 4:00PM
Sunday, February 19th 7:30PM
FREE
Back by popular demand, the Gainesville Community Playhouse is presenting the SOUL OF BROADWAY. This is an historical musical revue celebrating African American contributions to musical theater. The talented 20 plus cast will perform songs from Ain't Misbehavin, Aida, Smokey Joe's, Memphis, The Little Mermaid, Hairspray and more! This family friendly event is co-sponsored by the Outreach committee and it is FREE to the public. SEATING IS LIMITED. First come, first served. Reserved seats will be given away if not claimed 30 minutes prior to show time. You must call to reserve seats if bringing a large group.
www.gcplayhouse.org
Sunday, February 19th 7:30PM
FREE
Back by popular demand, the Gainesville Community Playhouse is presenting the SOUL OF BROADWAY. This is an historical musical revue celebrating African American contributions to musical theater. The talented 20 plus cast will perform songs from Ain't Misbehavin, Aida, Smokey Joe's, Memphis, The Little Mermaid, Hairspray and more! This family friendly event is co-sponsored by the Outreach committee and it is FREE to the public. SEATING IS LIMITED. First come, first served. Reserved seats will be given away if not claimed 30 minutes prior to show time. You must call to reserve seats if bringing a large group.
Gainesville Community Playhouse: 4039 NW 16th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 376-4949
gcp@gcplayhouse.orgwww.gcplayhouse.org
FLMNH Cruisin' for Fossil Nuts
2:00PM
FREE
Don't miss these free Sunday afternoon presentations by Florida Museum paleontologists. Come and learn about many different aspects of paleontology while interacting with some of the top researchers in the field. Cruisin' for Fossil Nuts with Steve Manchester, Ph.D.,Florida Museum Curator of Paleobotany.
Florida Museum of Natural History: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
Questions? Call (352) 273-2062
Questions? Call (352) 273-2062
Click here for more information
Gainesville Community Band Sunday at the Pops
2:00PM
FREE
Gainesville Community Band will feature several guest artists at their annual Sunday at the Pops concert. Bill Prince is feature artist playing his arrangements of the Big Band era. Other soloists are William Dishman, trumpet, Charles Propper, trombone, and Rachel Matz, tuba.
Santa Fe College Fine Arts Hall: 3000 NW 83rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32606 , Gainesville, FL 32601
For more information, call(352) 870-1208
For more information, call(352) 870-1208
www.gnvband.org
UF Gator Softball Camp
Spring Hitting Clinic: 12-2PM or 4-6PM
Spring Catching Clinic: 2:30 -3:30PM
Catching Clinic: $40 / Hitting Clinic: $70. Enroll for both camps and receive $10 off!
Volunteer Coach Kristina Hilberth will conduct the following sessions of hitting and catching clinics throughout the spring. Campers will receive quality one on one hitting and catching instruction during each session
University of Florida
www.gatorzone.com/camps
A Girl's Place Health Fair and Zumba Festival (2012)
5:00PM - 8:00PM
$10 donation with advance registration (on our website); $15 donation at the door
Activities: Health Fair (various topics for kids and adults); Zumba (instructors will lead Zumba for the entire 3 hours; participants can participate as much as they would like.) All proceeds benefit March of Dimes (March for Babies team: Marching for Makenna)
2101 NW 39th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 378-8664
www.girlsplace.net
Winter Fine Art Fair at Tioga Town Center
Saturday, February 25th 10:00AM - 6:00PM
Sunday, February 26th 10:00AM - 5:00PM
FREE
5th Winter Fine Art Fair @ Tioga Town Center features the works of 120 artists and fine craftsmen, music, kids activites and food vendors.
Tioga Town Center: SW 128 St and West Newberry Rd. / For more information, call (352) 692-4466
Click here for details
Chick-fil-A Archer Road Daddy Daughter Date Night
5:00PM - 8:00PM
Join Chick-fil-A on Archer Road for a Daddy Daughter Date Night!
Chick-fil-A on Archer Road: 3621 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608 / (352) 373-9988
www.cfarestaurant.com/archerroad/home
Engineering Day at the Discovery Center
10:00AM - 2:00PM
FREE
Think! Plan! Create! Join the Discovery Center and the Florida Engineering Society in a family day of hand-on engineering challenges. Parents will work with their children as teams, and top creators in each division (5-10 yr olds and 11-15 yr olds) will be awarded prizes! There will be participation ribbons and 1st, 2nd, & 3rd place medals awarded for each challenge. Pizza and sodas will be available for lunch.
Discovery Center: 701 NE Sanchez Avenue, Ocala, FL 34470
Registration opens January 1st. Visit the website for details.
Registration opens January 1st. Visit the website for details.
Click here for a brochure about the event
Greathouse Butterfly Farm Open House
9:00AM - 3:00PM
FREE
We open our doors to any and all for a celebration of spring butterfly gardens. Join together with other butterfly aficionados for a wonderful butterfly experience. Guaranteed to get you primed and excited for a spring full of flowers and butterflies. Farm tours, Kids activity program, Butterfly and native plants for sale and Local food.
20329 State Road 26 East Earleton, Florida 32631 / (866) 475-2088
www.butterflyfarm.com
Haile Village Center Mardi Gras Event
5:00PM - 11:00PM
FREE
Haile Village Center Mardi Gras Event: We’re turning the Village into the French Quarter! Come enjoy tradition New Orleans/Mardi Gras food and beverages at our restaurants. Dance in the streets to live music, great shopping and more.
Haile Village Center, Gainesville, Florida 32608
www.haileevents.com
Heart Pine Open House
Saturday, February 25th
1:00PM - 4:00PM
Open House! Heart Pine School is being built by parents who believe a child's earliest years in school set the tone for life long learning. We feel that Waldorf education meets a child where he is: in his body, in his heart as well as in his mind. Heart Pine School is an emerging school initiative currently enrolling 1st, 2nd and 3rd Grade - we have the goal of educating students through the 8th Grade. We are the natural outgrowth of Morning Meadow Preschool & Kindergarten and Tall Pines Homeschool Group. We maintain a strong and healthy relationship with Morning Meadow Preschool and our futures are intertwined. Waldorf education, developed by Rudolf Steiner more that 100 years ago, is based on the natural rhythms of a child's body. Learning happens through the hands, heart and head: by doing, feeling and discerning instead of by mental repetition and testing. Waldorf philosphy understands innate human wisdom to be the root of intelligence. It emphasizes full mastery of skills at an age appropriate pace, rather than early skills acquisition.
www.facebook.com/heartpineschool
1:00PM - 4:00PM
Open House! Heart Pine School is being built by parents who believe a child's earliest years in school set the tone for life long learning. We feel that Waldorf education meets a child where he is: in his body, in his heart as well as in his mind. Heart Pine School is an emerging school initiative currently enrolling 1st, 2nd and 3rd Grade - we have the goal of educating students through the 8th Grade. We are the natural outgrowth of Morning Meadow Preschool & Kindergarten and Tall Pines Homeschool Group. We maintain a strong and healthy relationship with Morning Meadow Preschool and our futures are intertwined. Waldorf education, developed by Rudolf Steiner more that 100 years ago, is based on the natural rhythms of a child's body. Learning happens through the hands, heart and head: by doing, feeling and discerning instead of by mental repetition and testing. Waldorf philosphy understands innate human wisdom to be the root of intelligence. It emphasizes full mastery of skills at an age appropriate pace, rather than early skills acquisition.
1001 NE 16th Avenue (at the Highlands Church), Gainesville, FL 32601
(352) 378-8516 or (352) 327-1175 or (352) 339-1417
(352) 378-8516 or (352) 327-1175 or (352) 339-1417
www.facebook.com/heartpineschool
Northeast Florida Scottish Games & Festival
9:00AM - 10:00 PM
Adults are $10/ Children under 10 are FREE
Northeast Florida Scottish Games and Festival are celebrating 15 years of bringing a "wee bit o' Scotland" to the Northeast Florida area. Each year residents of Northeast Florida and the surrounding areas gather and enjoy the athletics, music, food and fun of the games. The Games continues to grow and reflect the deep connections and effects the Scots and their descendants have had on the United States as well as Northeast Florida in particular.
Childrens' Area: Come and visit the Children's pavilion. Let your wee one take a try in some of the athletics that happen at the games such as the Sheep (Sheaf) Toss, Caber Toss, Boot Toss, Sack Races, Stone Toss, etc. In addition there will be a petting zoo, a coloring contest, and try your luck at scoring a goal in the biggest professional sport in Scotland "Soccer" (Football). There will also be a bounce house and giant slide just outside the Children's area. Radio Disney will be on site broadcasting and playing games with all of the kids all day long. Come on out for a day filled with fun.
Clay County Fairgrounds: Green Cove Springs, Florida @ 2497 State Road 16 West / (904) 725-5744
http://neflgames.com
Read Across America Dr. Seuss Storytime at Target
9:00AM - 11:00AM
FREE
Bring the kids to your local Target store to enjoy giveaways, coupons and hear Dr. Seuss favorites. As part of Target's commitment to reading, we support Read Across America—the nation's largest celebration of children's reading and a fun way to honor Dr. Seuss's birthday. Our in-store events are just one way we're helping engage children in reading. The celebration alco includes free goody bags, fun activities adn more.
Target: 3970 SW Archer Rd, Gainesville, FL 32608 / (352) 376-5260
Click here for details
Alachua County Youth Fair and Livestock Show
March 2nd - 6th
Gates Open: Friday at 4PM / Saturday at 8:30 AM / Sunday at noon / Monday and Tuesday at 8:30AM
FREE
Bring your family out to see the youth of Alachua County show off their skills! 4H and FFA members display their projects from livestock to bottle rockets! Shows and activities daily.
(352) 372-1537
http://alachua.ifas.ufl.edu/agriculture/youth_fair/index.shtml
Gates Open: Friday at 4PM / Saturday at 8:30 AM / Sunday at noon / Monday and Tuesday at 8:30AM
FREE
Bring your family out to see the youth of Alachua County show off their skills! 4H and FFA members display their projects from livestock to bottle rockets! Shows and activities daily.
Alachua County Fairgrounds: 2900 NE 39th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609
(352) 372-1537
http://alachua.ifas.ufl.edu/agriculture/youth_fair/index.shtml
Imagination Movers
4:00PM and 7:00PM
Tickets: $25 - $35
The New Orleans-based band will play its most popular children’s songs, capturing the magic of its television series.
Phillips Center / University of Florida Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
Box Office: (352) 392-2787
www.performingarts.ufl.edu/events/2011/imagination-movers/
www.imaginationmovers.com
EARS Animal Sanctuary Family Tours & Membership Drive
Saturday, March 17th: Large Group Tour (Must be 10 or older to attend)
12:30PM - 2:30PM
Tour and one day membership: Ages 10 and up: $15 / Children under 10: $10
RSVP is required
EARS Animal Sanctuary is having 2 Animal Tours and Membership Drives. Gail Bowen founder of EARS will be conducting a walking tour and some of the animals you will see are LIONS,TIGERS, BEARS,LEOPARDS, MONKEYS and more! We're asking people who attend to please donate a bottle (or more) of regular bleach. EARS uses bleach in large quantities to keep the sanctuary clean. In addition to the bleach, if you would also like to donate towels, blankets, shovels, rakes, etc. that would be most appreciated.
2615 East Highway 318, Citra, FL 32113
To RSVP, contact Steffie at (407) 647-6328 or SKB255@aol.comwww.earsinc.net
Fire Fest
10:00AM - 4:00PM
$6 Park Entrance fee
In celebration of prescribed fire as an ecologically significant and critical land management tool, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park invites you to its annual FIRE FEST. If you are burning to learn more about prescribed fire and its important role in restoring Florida’s natural ecosystems, join us for a fun-filled day of fire equipment demonstrations, hayrides, scavenger hunts, movies, hands-on activities and more! Get your Fire Fest passport stamped at various “Fire Stations” located throughout the park, while you visit with Smokey Bear, try using prescribed fire tools, and discover the ins and outs of FIREWISE landscaping.
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is located 10 miles south of Gainesville, in Micanopy, on the east side of US 441
For more information, call (352) 466-4966
For more information, call (352) 466-4966
www.prairiefriends.org/firefest/
Overnight at the Museum
7:00PM - 9:00AM the following morning
Members are $50 for a parent/child pair, $20 for each additional person
Non-members are $65 for a parent/child pair, $25 for each additional person
Overnight at the MuseumSleeping with Dinos!Meet and sleep with the dinosaurs as they visit the Florida Museum of Natural History. Play games in the Florida Fossils exhibit and try to fit into the footprint of a T-Rex. This year's overnight will have dinosaur games and science activities for everyone. Join us for a night of "epoch" fun
This program runs overnight, and you will be sleeping at the museum. Please bring at least a sleeping bag/mat and a pillow. Air mattresses are recommended. This overnight program is designed for families with children ages 6-12. (Maximum parent to child ratio is 1:3.)
UF Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
(352) 846-2000
(352) 846-2000
www.flmnh.ufl.edu/education/overnight.htm
Race the Tortoise
8:00 AM
Ages 14 & under $10. All Others $20 through 2/14/2012; $25 2/15/2012 through race day
This is an out-and-back race along the Park's scenic, paved main road. The course is certified (FL09012EBM). Prize money for Open & Masters course records. Awards to first 3 finishers in each age group. The Park is located 6 miles north of High Springs, FL on U.S. Hwy. 441. IMPORTANT: You must arrive at the Park's entrance by 7:30 a.m. Profits from the race will help the Park buy an audio/visual system for training/education and finish establishing its nature center.
O'Leno State Park
410 SE O'Leno Park Road, High Springs, FL
410 SE O'Leno Park Road, High Springs, FL
Click here to register
Where the Sidewalk Ends: Youth Arts Festival
9:00AM - 3:00PM
Admission is free, but some children's activities may have a fee
Third annual Where the Sidewalk Ends: Family Arts Festival to celebrate Youth Art Month. The festival includes art vendors, music, food, art activities, art demonstrations, live reenactments and family-friendly organizations. Plus kids activities like painting, sidewalk chalk, bounce houses, petting zoo, hoola hoops, face painting, make and take projects, story times and much more.
Youth Art Sale for children ages 4-14
Do you have a collection of original art work you would like to sell? Please sign up to be a vendor at our art festival. There are no fees to sign up. Your time slot will be 2 hours with 15 minutes for set up and break down. Space is limited to card table size. If you do not have a card table one will be provided for you. Please let us know in advance what you will be selling. Sign up soon- the first 15 applicants are guaranteed a spot.
Thornebrook Shopping Village Gainesville, FL 32606
www.yoppinc.com
Wings of Dreams Air Fest
9:00AM - 5:00PM
$5 adults, $2 children (under 12), children under 5 free, WWII veterans free
Wings of Dreams Airfest, featuring the "Wings of Freedom Tour". "Fly a mission" in the Collings Foundation's B-17 Flying Fortress, the only flying B-24 Liberator and TP-51C Mustang. Fighter Aces, WASP and Combat Airmen symposiums; Big Band Hangar Dinner/Dance with the Clay County Swing Band; Musical Tribute to All Military Services and Veterans by Mid-Life Crisis and the Hot Flashes, youth aviation activities; WWII reenactors, historical exhibits; demo flights & more.
Keystone Heights Airport / (352) 256-8037
www.wingsofdreams.orgEpcot's International Flower and Garden Festival
FREE with park admission
Behold brilliant botanicals, unique gardens and so much more at Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival presented by HGTV. Enjoy the following festival highlights:
•Educational presentations
•Themed weekends
•Special displays
•Fun activities
Whether you want to improve your gardening skills or simply savor colorful scenery, a spectacular array of experiences awaits you at Epcot theme park during this year's festival.
1200 Epcot Resort Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 / (407) 939-6244
Click here for more information
Harlem Globe Trotters
7:00PM
$18 - $77
For 85 tremendous years, the Harlem Globetrotters have thrilled audiences around the world. Today, a new generation of stars carries on this storied tradition with timeless basketball exhibitions.
O'Connell Center, Gainesville FL
www.harlemglobetrotters.com
Click here to purchase tickets
Alachua County Mamas Family Fun Carnival for March of Dimes
10:00AM to 4:00PM
FREE
A family fun carnival to raise money for March of Dimes. Bounce Houses, Magic Mike, Face Painting, Sun Country Gym Bus, craft vendors, food vendors, etc. have been confirmed for this year, LOTS more to be added!
SW YMCA Complex: 9315 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL 32608
For more information, call Daphne (352) 317-0608
For more information, call Daphne (352) 317-0608
Click here for details
Danscompany's Production of The Wiz
2:00PM and 7:30PM
Tickets are $12
The Wiz is a full-length family ballet performed by the Danscompany. The Wiz is a combined jazz show, featuring the lyrical and modern talents of this diverse company.
Phillips Center / University of Florida Cultural Plaza
SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
Box Office: (352) 392-2787
www.danscompanyofgainesville.org
NHRA GatorNationals
Tickets: $16-$65 for adults / $10-$24 for children
The traditional East Coast opener and the season’s first of 17 events for Pro Stock Motorcycle riders, this event is one of the sport’s most revered with a rich tradition of history-making performances. This hallowed quarter-mile has entertained spring-break-loving fans for decades with such notable occasions as the first 260-mph Top Fuel and Funny Car runs in 1984 and the first 270-mph and 300-mph Top Fuel passes, in 1986 and 1992, respectively. Its 675-foot concrete launch pad is one of the longest on the tour.
Gainesville Raceway: 11211 N. County Rd. 225, Gainesville, FL 32609 / (352) 377-0046
www.gainesvilleraceway.com
Gainesville Community Fest
10:00AM - 6:00PM
Ages 13 & up: $5 advance, $7.50 at event
Students (ID Required): $5 advance, $6.00 at event
Children ages 5 to 12: $3 advance, $5.50 at event
Children under 5: Free
GainesvilleActivities.com strives to encourage Gainesville residents to buy local, play local and stay local. In order to further this mission, we are hosting Gainesville Community Fest. The purpose of this event is to showcase Gainesville’s local businesses, clubs, and nonprofit organizations and facilitate interaction between participants and exhibitors. In addition, a portion of Gainesville Community Fest proceeds will help Kids Kicking Cancer bring relief to children in Pain!
Gainesville Community Fest attendees will begin their adventure in the 25,000 sf exhibition hall where they may interact with representatives from more than 100 exhibiting organizations. Vendors include companies and clubs such as: the Florida Speleological Society, the Gainesville Cycling Club, the Gainesville Adventure Meetup Group, the Gainesville Rock Gym, Gator CrossFit, the Gainesville Dining and Nightlife Meetup Group, and many more.
Outside the exhibition hall, attendees will enjoy exciting attractions such as lions and tigers from Single Vision, elephant rides from All About Elephants, a rock climbing wall provided by the Gainesville Rock Gym, an archery range from the Newberry Sports Complex, live music from local Gainesville bands, martial arts demonstrations, a mini Gainesville Art Walk, local food, beverages and much more.
5209 SW 91st Dr Gainesville, FL 32608 / (352)335-7777
www.gainesvillecommunityfest.com
Health Fair and India Fest
10:00AM - 6:00PM
Admission: $3, children 5 and under FREE!
Tantalize your senses with authentic Indian food, dance, art, music, games, jewelry, attire, henna, & much more....
HEALTH FAIR WILL PROVIDE FREE SCREENING AND/OR INFORMATION ABOUT Arthritis, Asthma, Alzheimer, Blood pressure, Body Fat Measurement, Cancer, Ear problems, Hand & Feet Problems, Osteoporosis, Self Breast Examination.
GET YOUR BASIC BLOOD TEST DONE FOR $50.00 (CBC, CMP & Lipid Panel) - Please do not eat or drink after midnight for blood test.
Santa Fe College Gymnasium: 3000 NW 83rd St., Gainesville, FL, 32606
For more information, (352) 514-4477
For more information, (352) 514-4477
www.icec-florida.org
Westwood Middle Summer Activities Fair
9:00AM - 12:00PM
FREE
Summertime is fast approaching! Are you wondering what to do with the kids this year? Why not attend the Summer Activities Fair to get more information about all of the summer program activities available in our area for children of all ages, abilities & interests! Come on out to learn more!
Westwood Middle School: 3215 N.W. 15th Avenue Gainesville, FL 32605
for more information, call Lori McGriff(352) 376-2444
for more information, call Lori McGriff(352) 376-2444
lori@emmergroup.com
Wild Azalea Festival
9:00AM - 4:00PM
FREE
Join the Town of White Springs and the State of Florida’s Nature & Heritage Center as they celebrate the spring bloom of wild azaleas along the Suwannee River. The festival features musical performances, arts and crafts, trail hikes and other outdoor recreational opportunities. There will be a children's area including a rock wall. Don't miss the Little Miss Azalea contest and the Duck Race! Native plants, including wild azaleas will also be for sale.
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center
U.S. 41 North White Springs, Florida 32096 / 386-397-7005
U.S. 41 North White Springs, Florida 32096 / 386-397-7005
Click here for more information
Thoroughly Modern Millie
Wednesday - Saturday at 8:00 PM / Sunday at 2:00 PM
Click here for ticket information
Young Millie has just moved to a New York full of intrigue and jazz – a time when women were entering the work force and the rules of love and social behavior were changing forever. Filled with frisky flappers, dashing men and a villainess audiences will love to hate, Millie is an evening of madcap merriment.You’ll want to bring the whole family to this one!
Gainesville Community Playhouse: 4039 NW 16th Blvd, Gainesville, FL 32605
GCP box office (352) 376-4949.
GCP box office (352) 376-4949.
www.gcplayhouse.org
Gainesville Youth Chorus presents "A Sweet Taste of Broadway"
7:30PM
Tickets: $25
The Gainesville Youth Chorus, Inc. is a children's international touring choir enriching our children, our community...one concert at a time!
Glen Springs Elementary Theatre: 2826 NW 31st Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32605
Tickets available by calling 352-256-3057
Tickets available by calling 352-256-3057
www.gainesvilleyouthchorus.com
SECME Engineering Olympiad
Saturday, March 24th
8:00AM - 4:00PM
FREE
SECME is a strategic alliance to renew and strengthen the professional capacity of K-12 educators, motivate and mentor students, and empower parents so that all students can learn and achieve at higher levels.
K-12 students are invited to UF one Saturday every spring to participate in a day of engineering contests. There are mousetrap powered cars, water bottle rockets, math and science tests, a poster contest and more. By showing the fun side of math and science, SECME encourages kids to be the scientists and engineers of the future.
Click here for more information.
8:00AM - 4:00PM
FREE
SECME is a strategic alliance to renew and strengthen the professional capacity of K-12 educators, motivate and mentor students, and empower parents so that all students can learn and achieve at higher levels.
K-12 students are invited to UF one Saturday every spring to participate in a day of engineering contests. There are mousetrap powered cars, water bottle rockets, math and science tests, a poster contest and more. By showing the fun side of math and science, SECME encourages kids to be the scientists and engineers of the future.
Hume Field on UF Campus, Gainesville, FL, 32608
Click here for more information.
Spring Garden Festival at the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens
Saturday 9:00AM - 5:00PM / Sunday 10:00AM - 5:00PM
$8 for adults / $5 for children 13 and under
The weekend affair features more than 200 booths offering plants, landscape displays, educational materials, arts and crafts, and food. Educational seminars and entertainment are offered throughout and both live and silent auctions offer many bargains on arts, crafts, plants, and gardening supplies. About 10,000 individuals usually attend the event; parking is free and two off-site parking areas are serviced by shuttle buses.
Children's Area Activities:
Saturday Morning Interactive Butterfly Activities
Paint On Paper Walls
Pot A Plant
Create a "Buggy" Visor Cap
Design a Watercolor Butterfly Magnet
Make a Wiggly Caterpillar and Butterfly
Help Create a Giant Butterfly Mosaic
Ikebana Ikenobo (Japanese flower arranging)
Face Painting
Kanapaha Botanical Gardens:4700 S.W. 58th Drive Gainesville, FL / (352) 372-4981
www.kanapaha.org/spring.htm
Peking Acrobats
7:30PM
Tickets: $25 - $35
Since their Western debut more than 25 years ago, the Peking Acrobats have redefined public perceptions of Chinese acrobatics. This troupe of China’s most gifted performers returns to the Phillips Center to share its nation’s 2,000-year-old spectacle. Brightly costumed tumblers, contortionists, jugglers, cyclists and gymnasts perform daring stunts with tremendous agility and control, delighting audiences of all ages. The company has built a tremendous reputation with its far-reaching global tours, popular television appearances, symphonic collaborations and feature films.
Phillips Center / University of Florida Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
Box Office: (352) 392-2787
www.performingarts.ufl.edu/events/2011/peking-acrobats/
Peking Acrobats website
VPK Roundup
2:00PM - 4:00PM
FREE
Join us for a fun filled afternoon to kick off Child Abuse Prevention Awareness Month and Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten enrollment. There will be plenty of activities for children and families.
Tower Road Library, Gainesville, FL 32601
www.elcalachua.org
Mutts and Pups Dog Show
Saturday, March 27th
9:00AM - 1:00 PM
FREE
Don't miss the annual Mutts and Pups Dog Show presented by the High Springs Main Street Organization. The event will be held in conjunction with a special Saturday Farmer's Market. Enter your Mutts and Pups for prizes in 12 categories. There will be food vendors, games for the kids, doggie treats, demonstrations and more. Come out for a great time!
http://farmersmarket.highsprings.com
9:00AM - 1:00 PM
FREE
Don't miss the annual Mutts and Pups Dog Show presented by the High Springs Main Street Organization. The event will be held in conjunction with a special Saturday Farmer's Market. Enter your Mutts and Pups for prizes in 12 categories. There will be food vendors, games for the kids, doggie treats, demonstrations and more. Come out for a great time!
High Springs, FL
http://farmersmarket.highsprings.com
Harn Museum of Art Cofrin Asian Art Wing Opening
10:00AM - 5:00 PM
FREE
Join us for a ribbon cutting at 10:30 a.m. revealing the five new exhibitions in the new wing and one of the Asian-inspired gardens. Activities planned throughout the day include tours, a gallery talk by Cofrin Curator of Asian Art Jason Steuber at 3 p.m., bonsai display, children's yoga sessions and Chinese calligraphy demonstration. Family-friendly art activities include origami and paper kimono making. Many performances will be scheduled which include traditional Indian dancing and excerpts from the Indian opera "Savitri."
UF Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611 / (352) 392-9826
www.harn.ufl.edu
Pioneer Days
35th Annual High Springs Pioneer Days Event! High Springs celebrates its wild past with Pioneer Days, a two-day festival featuring music, food, an arts-and-crafts show, and fun for children. "Outlaws" roam the streets to tease tourists into attending the main action: a shootout at the railroad tracks.
High Springs, FL
Click here for more information
