Festivals & Events
Hoggetowne Medieval Faire (January)
Step back in time and cheer on jousting knights, wander through the medieval marketplace where hundreds of artisans sell their wares, witness a battle on the living chess board, partake in olde world games and rides and feast on food fit for a king. Enjoy nine stages of entertainment where the forgotten skills of full-flight falconry, gripping aerial acrobatics and old-world magic come to life. Jugglers, knife throwers and gypsy dancers add to the excitement as they fill the streets of Hoggetowne.
For more info, please visit www.hoggetownefaire.com.
Gainesville Asian Festival (April)
Celebrate the vibrant cultures of Asia and the Pacific Islands at the 3rd Annual Gainesville Asian Festival! Bo Diddley Plaza comes alive with a with a full day of music, dance, food, and art. Enjoy performances such as Japanese taiko drumming, Chinese lion dancing, Polynesian dance and traditional music. Savor authentic Asian and Pacific Islander cuisine from a variety of food trucks, explore handcrafted goods from artisan vendors and dive into hands-on cultural activities like origami, paper lantern making and traditional games. This free, family-friendly event invites the community to explore and celebrate the traditions, creativity, and diversity of Asian and Pacific Island cultures.
Memorial Day Commemoration (May)
Each Memorial Day, the City of Gainesville invites the community to gather at Evergreen Cemetery for a heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Held at the Veterans Monument within the cemetery grounds, this moving two-hour ceremony honors our fallen heroes and recognizes the enduring strength and sacrifice of Gold Star families.
The program features powerful remarks from guest speakers, including local officials, military leaders, and veterans, who share stories of courage, service, and remembrance. A solemn presentation of military honors, including a rifle salute and the playing of Taps, offers a moment of reflection and reverence for those who gave their lives for our country.
The ceremony also includes a patriotic concert performed by a local ensemble, filling the historic cemetery with stirring musical tributes that celebrate the spirit of unity and national pride.
Free and open to the public, this annual Memorial Day event is a meaningful way for individuals and families to come together, pay their respects, and show gratitude to those who have served with honor and valor.
The Great Pumpkin Bash Fall Festival (October)
Kick off a festive weekend with a cozy outdoor kids’ movie on Friday night at Bo Diddley Plaza! Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and enjoy a magical evening under the stars as we set the stage for Saturday’s fall celebration.
Then, join us on Saturday for a full day of free, family-friendly fun featuring live music, delicious food, and activities for all ages. Wander through the pumpkin patch, enter the pumpkin carving and dog/human costume contests, and snap festive pics at themed photo booths. Kids will love the face painting, games, and hands-on crafts, with pumpkins available for purchase on-site.
Fuel up with tasty eats from food trucks, sweet treats from snack vendors, and enjoy a relaxing beer garden for adults. From 12–5 p.m., the Bo Diddley stage comes alive with performances by the Santa Fe Jazz Quartet, The Mermers, and a live DJ, while roaming entertainers like clowns and stilt walkers add extra excitement throughout the day.
Don’t forget to explore interactive community tables hosted by local nonprofit organizations—it’s a weekend celebration filled with fall charm, local flavor, and fun for the whole family!
Downtown Festival & Art Show (November)
North Florida’s art scene swings into high gear on Saturday and Sunday, November 15 and 16, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the arrival of the highly acclaimed Downtown Festival & Art Show. The streets of historic downtown Gainesville will be transformed into a celebration of art and creativity, complete with live music, performing arts and a spectacular array of food. The festival features 200 local and national artists displaying original oils and acrylics, vibrant watercolors, unique sculptures, dazzling jewelry, decorative ceramics and vivid photography. For music lovers enjoy continuous, live entertainment on three stages by local bands, solo musicians and dance companies.
For more information, please visit www.gainesvilledowntownartfest.net.
Holiday Lights Celebration and Kids Holiday Dance Party (December)
The City of Gainesville welcomes the season with its annual Holiday Lights Celebration at the Historic Thomas Center–a cherished tradition held on the first Saturday of December each year.
Kick off the festivities early with a Kids’ Holiday Dance Party from 1-3 p.m., featuring fun dance beats, holiday lights, and plenty of bubbles for little ones to enjoy. Then, from 6-8 p.m., the free evening program offers a festival light show, horse pulled carriage rides, holiday caroling and entertainment from local performers, children’s craft activities, and a special visit from Santa Claus.
Step inside to admire the beautifully decorated holiday tree and festive décor provided by the Thomas Center Associates. Outside, the grounds glow with hundreds of luminaries, lovingly placed by the Duck Pond Neighborhood Association.
Enjoy an evening of timeless charm, holiday cheer, and community spirit as we celebrate the season together.