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
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
Harlem Globe Trotters
Tickets start at $26
Click here to save $7 per ticket!
Click here to enter a giveaway for a family 4 pack of tickets.
ENTER ONCE A DAY!!
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
Click here to purchase tickets
www.harlemglobetrotters.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
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
Air Potato Roundup in Micanopy
10:00AM - 12:00 Noon
FREE
The Town of Micanopy is looking for some volunteer help to try to rid the town's Micanopy Native American Heritage Park of two invasive plant species: air potatoes and ardisia. Afterward, volunteers will be able to eat free barbecue.
Native American Heritage Park: 600 S.E. Tuscawilla Road, Micanopy, FL
For more information on the event or to volunteer call Micanopy Town Hall at (352) 466-3121.
For more information on the event or to volunteer call Micanopy Town Hall at (352) 466-3121.
www.micanopytown.com
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
Cornerstone Academy Open House
7:00PM
Open House! Learn and ask questions about admission, curriculum, extracurricular activities, and our growing athletics program for all ages. Tour the school and meet the principals and teachers. Cornerstone Academy in Gainesville offers a full college preparatory academic program in a combination schedule of classroom study and home study. Cornerstone is a Christ-Centered classical school that utilizes time-honored classical methods of instruction that integrate subjects, equipping students with tools for life-long learning and systematic thinking. Along with the basics of reading, writing, arithmetic, English grammar, Latin and logic, we also teach computer, robotics, science, worldviews, and rhetoric. At Cornerstone we teach students to think, reason and evaluate their experiences in light of the scriptures. Cornerstone offers a variety of extracurricular activities and a boasts a growing, thriving athletics program for all ages that includes JV and varsity basketball, volleyball, and football.
3401 NW 34th Street, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 378-9337
office@cornerstone.st
www.cornerstone.st
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
Azalea Days at Ravine Gardens State Park
March 4th 9:00AM - 4:00PM
FREE with park entrance fee
Azalea Days: Come enjoy a weekend of old fashion family fun. Start the day by taking a ranger-led wagon ride around a 1.8 mile loop of thousands of blooming azaleas, while listening to the unique history of this park. Learn why Ravine Gardens played an important role in the economic recovery of the City of Palatka. Walking along the extensive hiking trail system located at the bottom of the ravine our visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of color and beauty; including azaleas, dogwoods, magnolias and camellias. Marvel at the array of color that blankets the sides of the ravines like a patchwork quilt. Miss Azalea and her Court will be on hand to visit with guest and talk about the history of the Miss Azalea Pageant. Vendors and crafters will be located around the Court of States within the park. The Palatka Art League will be located in the Civic Center. Also located this year in the Civic center will be an Archaeological display provided by the Saint Augustine Public Archaeology Regional Center. The sounds of music, by some local and non-local entertainers, will echo throughout the ravines. Food and refreshments will be available to purchase through out the park.
Ravine Gardens State Park: 1600 Twigg Street, Palatka, FL 32177 / (386) 329-3721
click here for more information
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/
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
S.T.A.R. Autism Awareness 5K Walk/Run
8:00AM - 10:00 AM
$15 and includes a tshirt and raffle ticket
Eastside High School's Students Together for Autism Research (S.T.A.R.) is organizing the 5th Annual Autism Awareness 5K Walk/Run at Westside Park. The aim is to increase awareness for the local Autism community while raising funds for the University of Florida Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) Registration begins at 8AM, and the race start time is 9AM. Refreshments (bagels, juices, fruit, etc.) will be provided before and after the race. Activities for kids, as well as information tables/booths from our collaborating organizations will be at the event.
Westside Park: 1001 NW 34th Street Gainesville, FL 32605
click here for more informationSilver River Knap-In and Stone Age Arts Festival
10:00AM - 4:00PM
Admission $5.00 per person; children under 6 free
This weekend event will feature flint knappers from across the Southeast making stone tools like Native Americans did thousands of years ago. Other artists and crafters will demonstrate how bows and arrows are made, hide-tanning, pottery manufacture and firing, tomahawk throwing and other skills. Vendors will sell replica stone tools, food and other creations. Archery and atlatl dart throwing demonstrations will take place each day.
Silver River State Park is located east of Ocala, 1 mile south of S.R. 40 on S.R. 35 / (352) 236-5401
www.floridastateparks.org/silverriver/events.cfm
UF Lacrosse Kids Corner
1:00PM
UF Lacrosse vs Syracuse Kids Corner: There will be a special area set up for kids to make posters for the Gators, have their face painted, play interactive games and Magic Mike will be there to make balloon art!
O'Connell Center on UF Campus
www.gatorzone.com/promotions/
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.orgSilver River Pancakes in the Park
9:00AM - 10:30AM
FREE (Park entry fee waved for the morning) / Pancakes are $5 adult and $3 child
Once again Friends of Silver River offer a hearty breakfast under the pavilions along with footstomping bluegrass music. Sweetwater Bluegrass will have you humming while you're chewing. Come in early at 8:00AM for a guided nature walk and work up your appetite. Breakfast served 9:00 - 10:30 am.
Silver River State Park: Located east of Ocala, 1 mile south of S.R. 40 on S.R. 35
www.floridastateparks.org/silverriver/events.cfm
Casting Call for Cuties
3:00PM - 6:00PM
$5 donation to March of Dimes
Giggle Magazine is hosting a casting call for cuties! For a $5 donation to the March of Dimes, you will receive a 4x6 photo of your cutie and all cuties will be entered into our cutie casting for future issues. ALL AGES WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Miracles Maternity Boutique: 2441 NW 43rd St, Suite 21 Gainesville, FL 32606 / (352) 338-2040
Click here for more information
Epcot'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
Tickets start at $26
Click here to save $7 per ticket!
Click here to enter a giveaway for a family 4 pack of tickets.
ENTER ONCE A DAY!!
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
Click here to purchase tickets
www.harlemglobetrotters.com
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
1:30PM 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
Box Office: (352) 392-2787
www.danscompanyofgainesville.org
Box Office: (352) 392-2787
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
Billetproof Hot Rod and Custom Car Show
9:00AM - 4:00 PM
Spectators FREE
The Largest Model Car Show in the STATE!!! Billetproof is back at Don Garlits Musuem of Drag Racing in 2012! It's going a be a great day loaded with all kinds of hot rod goodness. Don't miss out!
Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing: 13700 SW 16th Avenue, Ocala, Florida 34473 / (352) 372-1537
www.billetproof.com/upcomingshows/florida
Can You Dig It? at Florida Museum of Natural History
10:00AM - 3:00PM
FREE
Dig into geology and discover the ground beneath your feet. Enjoy hands-on activities and watch demonstrations of volcanic eruptions. Have your world rocked by the awesome presentations and activities from the UF Department of Geological Sciences and the Gainesville Gem and Mineral Society
UF Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611 / (352) 273-2062
www.flmnh.ufl.edu/education/events.htm
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
O'Cala's St. Patrick's Day Festival on the Downtown Square
Saturday, March 17th
4:00PM - 9:00PM
FREE
Bring the clan to a family friendly celebration of everything Irish. Wear green, bring your chair, and enjoy some great entertainment. Festivities will include a live band, Irish step dancing, food, crafts, children’s activities and the annual Ocala Police Department Dunk-A-Cop.
4:00PM - 9:00PM
FREE
Bring the clan to a family friendly celebration of everything Irish. Wear green, bring your chair, and enjoy some great entertainment. Festivities will include a live band, Irish step dancing, food, crafts, children’s activities and the annual Ocala Police Department Dunk-A-Cop.
Downtown Square, Ocala
For more information call (352) 629-8444
For more information call (352) 629-8444
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
Pilobolus Dance Theatre
2:00PM
$20 - $40
With more than 40 years of imaginative creative exploration, the Pilobolus Dance Theatre has evolved into a pioneering cultural fixture in American dance. Its three artistic directors and more than 25 full and part-time dancers are entirely devoted to contributing to one of the most popular and varied bodies of work in the history of the field. Born in 1971 from a fringe company of acrobats, athletes and architects, Pilobolus has achieved monumental recognition for its radically innovative performances onstage and onscreen, most notably for the Academy Awards and the NFL Network. This groundbreaking collective works to create three original works each year, featuring its distinctive choreography and gravity-defying formations that challenge the limits of the human body and leave viewers enthralled.
Phillips Center / University of Florida Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
Box Office: (352) 392-278
Click here to go the Phillips Center websiteBox Office: (352) 392-278
www.stomponline.com
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
Egg Drop Alachua
10:00AM - 12:00PM
FREE
What's an egg drop? It's like an Easter Egg hunt, only way cooler. In addition to tons of eggs on the field, we'll drop thousands of eggs from a helicopter. Your kids will have a blast collecting eggs that can be redeemed for tons of candy. Join us for festivities, entertainment, and of course the egg drop at 11AM.
Visit the website for a map to the location in Alachua, FL
www.eggdropalachua.com
Family Day at the UF Dairy Farm
9:00AM - 2:00PM
FREE
The public is invited to attend Family Day at the Dairy Farm. See how milk is produced locally, and learn how University of Florida research supports more efficient, affordable and sustainable milk production. The event is free and there is plenty of parking for everyone. It's sure to be a fun and informative day for all. Take a leisurely tour and enjoy butter making, calf petting, a milking machine, visiting the cows in their barn, see the health care area, the milking parlor and lots more! Family Day at the Dairy Farm is presented by the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, with support from Florida Dairy Farmers.
UF Dairy Farm: 13200 NW 59th Drive, Alachua 32653 / Click here for directions
Click here for more info
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
Young Frankenstein
7:30PM
$40 - $60
The classic Mel Brooks movie is ALIVE…and it’s headed here! You’ll have a monstrously good time at this spectacular new production, winner of the 2008 Outer Critics Circle Award and the Broadway.com Audience Award for Best Musical. Don’t miss the sensational cast delivering all your favorite moments from the classic film, plus brand-new show-stopping numbers for the stage, including Transylvania Mania, He Vas My Boyfriend and Puttin’ on the Ritz. This wickedly inspired re-imagining of the Frankenstein legend follows bright young Dr. Frankenstein (that’s Fronkensteen) as he attempts to create a monster – but not without scary and hilarious complications.
Phillips Center / University of Florida Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
Box Office: (352) 392-278
Click here to go the Phillips Center websiteBox Office: (352) 392-278
www.youngfrankensteinthemusical.com
STOMP
Saturday, March 31st 2:00PM and 7:30PM
$40 - $50
STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, utterly unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The international percussion sensation has garnered an armful of awards and rave reviews, and has appeared on numerous national television shows. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms.
Phillips Center / University of Florida Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611
Box Office: (352) 392-278
Click here to go the Phillips Center websiteBox Office: (352) 392-278
www.stomponline.com
Harn Museum of Art Cofrin Asian Art Wing Opening
10:00AM - 5:00 PM
FREE
Join us for a ribbon cutting at 10:30 a.m. revealing the five new exhibitions in the new wing and one of the Asian-inspired gardens. Activities planned throughout the day include tours, a gallery talk by Cofrin Curator of Asian Art Jason Steuber at 3 p.m., bonsai display, children's yoga sessions and Chinese calligraphy demonstration. Family-friendly art activities include origami and paper kimono making. Many performances will be scheduled which include traditional Indian dancing and excerpts from the Indian opera "Savitri."
UF Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville, FL 32611 / (352) 392-9826
www.harn.ufl.edu
The Little Shop - Easter Egg Hunt
9:00AM - 12:00PM
Egg hunt is FREE
Tickets will be sold for other activities
Three Separate age groups 1 to 2, 3 to 5, 6+. Bounce House, Photos with the Easter Bunny (printing onsite), Craft, Snacks, Raffle, Breakfast / Lunch with the Easter Bunny, Golden Egg with 100$ prizes. Registration will happen online or the week before.
Tioga Town Center: 12921 SW 1st Road Suite 117, Newberry, FL 32669 / (352) 505-0466
www.thelittleshopgnv.com
O2BKids Eggstravaganza
10:00AM
Members: FREE / Non-Members: $10
Adults are FREE
Petting zoo - bounce house - carnival games - TONS of candy - separate egg hunts by age - cotton candy, popcorn and snow cones!
Supercenter: 6680 West Newberry Road, Gainesville, FL 32605 / (352) 332-5500
www.O2BKids.com
Antique Tractor and Engine Show
9:00AM - 5:00PM
Admission free with paid park admission.
Farm machinery representing 200 years of American history. Vintage farm equipment, tractor pulls and races for adults. Children’s games and races. Demonstrations of wheat threshing and shingle milling. Food concessions.
Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center: U.S. 41 North White Springs, Florida 32096 / 386-397-7005
www.floridastateparks.org
Farm to Family Full Moon Festival
April 6th - 8th
Members and Moms: FREE / Non-Members: $15
3 day music festival. Visit the website for details.
www.farmtofamily.com
Members and Moms: FREE / Non-Members: $15
3 day music festival. Visit the website for details.
2800 NE SR47, High Springs, FL 32643
www.farmtofamily.com
Easter Egg Hunt at Celebration United Methodist Church
10:00AM - 1:00PM
FREE
Everyone welcome! We will have our annual egg hunt, bounce house, giant slide, obstacle course, hay ride balloon sculpting, face painting, Sun Country Gym Bus, and much more. DON’T FORGET YOUR BASKET!
Celebration UMC: 9501 SW Archer Rd., Gainesville, FL, 32608 / (352) 367-8005
www.celebrationgnv.org
Buchholtz Drama Presents Cinderella
Sundays at 2:00PM / All other performances: 7:00PM
$10
Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella concerns a young woman forced into a life of servitude by her cruel stepmother and self-centered stepsisters, who dreams of a better life. With the help of her Fairy Godmother, Cinderella is transformed into a Princess and finds her Prince.
Buchholz High School Auditorium: 5510 NW 27 Ave., Gainesville, FL, 32605 / (352) 955-6702
www.buchholzdrama.com/Cinderella.html
Levy County Fair
Thursday: 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Friday: 3:00 PM - Midnight
Saturday: 10:00 AM - Midnight
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
General Admission: $10
Seniors: $5 / Under 2: FREE
Parking $2
Livestock, equestrian show, entertainment, creative arts exhibit, rides, food and MORE
Airport Industrial Park: Across from the Horseman's Park: S. Highway 41, Williston, Florida
For more information call (352) 528-2516
www.levycountyfair.com
For more information call (352) 528-2516
Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival
Sunday, April 15th / 12:00PM - 5:30 PM
FREE
The Santa Fe Spring Arts Festival, one of the three largest annual events in Gainesville, is known for its high quality artwork and unique setting. The festival is held in the downtown historic district, nestled amid restored turn-of-the century homes, stately palms and abundant azaleas. More than 130,000 visitors are anticipated each year. There's lots of festival activity at the Thomas Center, where young artists sell their work and families make art projects at the Kids' Art Jungle.
Downtown Gainesville, FL 32601
www.springartsfestival.com
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo Party for the Planet
9:00AM - 2:00 PM
Admission is $5 for adults
$4 for children / FREE for ages 3 and under.
The zoo is having a Party for the Planet and you are invited! Get a jumpstart on celebrating Earth Day by exploring the Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo and the wonder of wildlife. Visit with the animals, chat with the zookeepers, and learn about fun ways we can all enjoy nature. The day includes children's crafts, animal training sessions, animal encounters, and informational displays.
Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo: 3000 NW 83rd St, Gainesville, FL 32606 / (352) 395-5601
www.sfcollege.edu/zoo
Alachua Spring Festival
11:00AM - 5:00 PM
FREE
This is always an all-around great family Sunday afternoon! a leisurely Spring Sunday afternoon full of music, children's activities, food and fun.
Dowtown Alachua FL
www.alachuabusiness.com
Bradford County Strawberry Festival
9:00AM - 7:00 PM on Saturday and 9:00AM - 5:00PM on Sunday
FREE
This popular annual festival draws a crown of over 12,000 visitors. Enjoy a family fun weekend in Bradford County with live entertainment, rides, arts and crafts, and plenty of strawberries! The Legends Show will entertain you with Elvis, Patsy Cline, and other favorites.
Historic Downtown area of Starke, FL 32091
For more information, call (904) 964-5278
www.mainstreetstarke.com/straw-festival.html
For more information, call (904) 964-5278
Cedar Key Arts Festival
10:00AM - 5:00PM
FREE
Make a date with Cedar Key and enjoy sauntering down Historic 2nd Street while enjoying fine art from a very select group of incredibly talented artists. Featuring award-winning fine art, paintings, sculptures, jewelry, crafts, ceramics, textiles, photography, and more. All this while taking in tasty fresh local seafood from our casual and fine dining seaside restaurants, and beautiful coastal scenery in this unforgettable Old Florida setting.Featuring award-winning artists in a family-friendly setting.
Cedar Key FL
www.cedarkeyartsfestival.com
Gator Fly-In
8:00AM - 3:00PM
FREE
The Gainesville Regional Airport invites you to the Second Annual Gator Fly-In to be held on the University Air Center (UAC) ramp. Static displays, educational symposium, aviation vendors, fantastic food, children's activities, simulators, discovery flights, photo ops, raffle prizes, and a Classic Car Competition!
Gainesville Regional Airport, Gainesville, FL
www.flygainesville.com
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
