2026 UF/IFAS Florida Native Plant Sale in Gainesville, Florida
Hundreds turned out for the annual UF/IFAS Native Plant Sale, shopping from more than 200 species of Florida native plants.
THIS WEEK
Stitching the Revolution
Stitching the Revolution takes place throughout the month of July from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Archer Library Branch, 12598 SR 45 in Archer. This free, monthlong exhibit showcases modern quilts while exploring the history of quilting in America, from its roots in the Revolutionary era to its evolution into a uniquely American art form. Visitors can also enjoy self-guided activity stations to create their own quilt-inspired artwork, making it a fun stop for all ages. The meeting room may be closed during scheduled library programs. For more information, visit attend.aclib.us/event/16280848.
‘Company’
Acrosstown Repertory Theatre will present “Company” through July 12, with performances at 8 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays at 3501 SW Second Ave., Suite O. The Tony Award-winning musical follows Robert, a lifelong bachelor, as he reflects on relationships, marriage and his own choices during a series of encounters with his friends. Widely regarded as a landmark in modern musical theater, the show blends humor and introspection in its exploration of love and commitment. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for seniors, students and heroes. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit acrosstown.org.
‘2026 Summer Showcase’
The Gainesville Fine Arts Association will present the “2026 Summer Showcase” through July 24 at 1314 S. Main St. The exhibition celebrates local artists and features works across a variety of themes and mediums. Admission is free, and artwork will be available for purchase through the exhibition and the association’s gift shop. Additional parking is available in the grocery store lot next door and along Main Street. More information is available at gainesvillefinearts.org.
‘Florida in the Frame’
The Harn Museum of Art’s exhibition “Florida in the Frame: A Century of Artists’ Reflections on the Sunshine State” continues at 3259 Hull Road, showcasing works from The Florida Art Collection that explore the state’s landscapes, history and culture through paintings, works on paper and select sculptures. Featuring more than 65 artists, including Winslow Homer, John Singer Sargent and Florida Highwaymen painters Johnny Daniels and Harold Newton, the exhibition is organized into themes highlighting natural environments, growing cities and the rise of tourism, and will remain on view through July 26. Admission is free. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Thursday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday. For more information, visit harn.ufl.edu/floridaintheframe.
Fanfare and Fireworks
WUFT’s annual Fanfare and Fireworks event, a family-friendly Independence Day Eve celebration at Flavet Field, features live performances by The Savants, the Gainesville Community Band, and the Gainesville Pops, along with food trucks, picnic-friendly lawn seating, and a festive community atmosphere. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and picnic baskets before the evening concludes with a large-scale fireworks display beginning at 9:30 p.m. The event begins at 6 p.m. Flavet Field is located at 605 Woodlawn Drive. For more information, visit wuft.org.
Newberry’s Independence Day Fireworks Show
Newberry’s Independence Day Fireworks Show takes place 6 to 10 p.m. July 3 at Country Way Town Square, 1739 SW 248th Drive in Newberry. The event is a celebration of America’s 250th birthday featuring vendors, community activities, and a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m. Guests are encouraged to wear red, white and blue, and enjoy a festive hometown celebration of Independence Day.
Contra Dance Fourth of July Weekend
Contra Dance Fourth of July Weekend takes place July 3-5 at The Dancing Fish, 24800 SR 26 in Melrose. Enjoy a festive Independence Day weekend filled with traditional contra dancing, live music and community fellowship. The weekend features callers Janet Shepherd and Dwayne Johnson, with music by Kingfisher and Full Tilt, plus multiple dance sessions, beginner-friendly instruction and no partner required. A community potluck on Saturday adds to the celebratory atmosphere, making this a fun way for dancers of all experience levels to celebrate the holiday weekend. More information, including the full schedule and registration details, is available at dancingfish.dance.
Jack Gamble Melon Run
The 48th annual Jack Gamble Melon Run takes place from 8 to 10 a.m. July 4 at Albert “Ray” Massey Park (Westside Park), 1001 NW 34th St. Start Independence Day with one of Gainesville’s longest-running Fourth of July traditions, featuring a scenic 3-mile run and a 1-mile fun run/walk open to participants of all ages and abilities. The course winds through rolling hills before finishing with the event’s signature watermelon treat, creating a festive morning of fitness, community spirit, and holiday fun. Proceeds benefit youth running programs through the Florida Track Club. More information and registration are available at runsignup.com/Race/FL/Gainesville/43rdMelonRun.
Fourth of July Parade
The Fourth of July Parade: A Parade of 100 American Events and Inventions takes place from 9 to 11 a.m. July 4, beginning at the Newberry Municipal Building, 25438 W. Newberry Road in Newberry. Part of Newberry’s America 250 celebration, this patriotic parade features themed floats, marching bands, tractors, classic and specialty vehicles, performers, and historical displays celebrating 100 significant American events and inventions. Live narration and educational presentations add historical context as the parade travels through downtown, making it a festive and family-friendly way to celebrate Independence Day. More information is available at tinyurl.com/ys2p9n5d.
Micanopy Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks
Micanopy Fourth of July Parade and Fireworks takes place from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. July 4 in Downtown Micanopy, 200 NE Cholokka Blvd. Celebrate Independence Day with a full day of family-friendly festivities beginning with the annual Fourth of July Parade at 11:00 a.m. along Cholokka Boulevard. The celebration continues at the Carson Roberts Sports Complex starting at 5:30 p.m. with live music, food trucks, an inflatable obstacle course, and other community activities before a fireworks display at dusk. Admission is free.
Voices Rising Community Chorus
Voices Rising Community Chorus will present a special concert in celebration of the country’s 250th birthday. “Sing USA 250th” will take place on at 4 p.m. July 4 at First United Methodist Church, 419 NE First St. The program features a variety of music ranging from “America, the Beautiful” to “This Land is Your Land” and from “Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor” with cello and narrator to “The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere” with lanterns. Suggested donation is $10 to $20. For more information, visit vrccgainesville.org.
City of Alachua Fourth of July Celebration
The city of Alachua Fourth of July Celebration takes place from 5 to 10 p.m. July 4 at Legacy Park Multipurpose Center, located at 15400 Peggy Road in Alachua. Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with an evening of live entertainment, family activities, games and local food vendors. DJ Elio Piedra will emcee the festivities, Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream will headline the concert, and Antoinette Hunt will perform the national anthem before a fireworks finale lights up the night sky at 9:30. Admission is free. More information is available at cityofalachua.com.
Perspectives in the Parks Series
Join the city of Gainesville at Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Center on the first Sunday of each month for Perspectives in the Park, a monthly program featuring experts in their field sharing information on a variety of topics, including science, nature, history and art. This month, from 1 to 2 p.m. July 5, attendees will learn about the Everglades ecosystem in South Florida, the largest subtropical ecosystem in North America, and how scientists are assisting in its restoration. The speaker is Laura D’Acunto, ecologist with the U.S. Geological Survey and Wetland and Aquatic Research Center. Hogtown Creek Headwaters Nature Center is located at 1500 NW 45th Ave. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/pitp25a.
Birds and Brews
Birds and Brews are free monthly bird walks led by volunteers from the Alachua Audubon Society to identify birds at Depot Park. Some binoculars and bird guides are provided, but feel free to bring any other equipment you wish. This month’s walk will be held from 5:45 to 7 p.m. July 5 at First Magnitude Brewing Company, located at 1220 SE Veitch St. For more information, visit facebook.com/FirstMagnitudeBrewing/events.
Brielle Aguila and SHEWXLF
The “Heaven on Earth Tour” with Brielle Aguila and SHEWXLF takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. July 5 at Somewhere, 5402 SW 105th Ave. This immersive outdoor gathering blends music, movement and community through a planting ceremony, cacao circle, live medicine music by Brielle Aguila and SHEWXLF, and an ecstatic dance session in a wooded setting. Designed to encourage connection, mindfulness and creative expression, the evening also offers optional primitive camping for those who wish to extend the experience overnight. Advance tickets and additional event details are available at tickettailor.com/events/ecstaticevents/2174524.
Networking Social
Networking Social at Aloft takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. July 7 at the Aloft Hotel Gainesville, 3743 Hull Road. This monthly networking event offers a relaxed opportunity for professionals, creatives, and community members to make new connections in a casual setting. Attendees can enjoy a complimentary drink, meet local professionals, and enter for door prizes, with additional prize entries available for those who bring a guest. Whether you’re looking to expand your professional network or simply meet new people, the gathering provides an easygoing atmosphere for conversation and community building.
Porch Sessions
Heartwood Soundstage continues its free Porch Sessions series July 8 with Amanda Husband and Friends. The all-ages event features an evening of acoustic music on the venue’s outdoor deck from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Seating will be provided, and guests are also welcome to bring lawn chairs. Summer drink specials will be available during the event. Heartwood Soundstage is located at 619 S. Main St. For more informational visit heartwoodsoundstage.com.
Summer at the Library
Bats at the Library takes place from 11 a.m. to noon July 9 at the Alachua County Library Hawthorne Branch, located at 6640 SE 221st St. in Hawthorne. Presented by the Lubee Bat Conservancy, this family-friendly program introduces children and adults to the fascinating world of bats through live animal ambassadors, interactive education, and discussions about bat habitats, research and conservation. Designed to inspire curiosity and environmental stewardship, the free event offers a unique opportunity to learn about the important role bats play in ecosystems while meeting these remarkable animals up close. Visit attend.aclib.us/event/16075622 for more information.
America’s 250 Cattle Brand Workshop
America’s 250 Cattle Brand Workshop takes place from 4 to 5 p.m. July 9 at the Waldo Library Branch, 14998 U.S. 301 in Waldo. As part of America’s 250th anniversary celebration, this hands-on workshop explores the history of cattle branding and its role in the American frontier. Participants will learn how ranchers used distinctive brands to identify livestock, then design and create their own custom stamp to take home. Recommended for ages 8 and up, the free program combines local history, creativity, and hands-on crafting in a fun, educational setting. For more information, visit attend.aclib.us/event/16181875.
Western Australia Flora and Fauna
Western Australia Flora and Fauna takes place from 7 to 8:30 p.m. July 9 at Cypress and Grove Brewing Company, 1001 NW Fourth St. Hosted by the Alachua Audubon Society, this free presentation features Chris Burney, who shares observations from four years of living near Perth, Australia. The program explores how seasonal rainfall shapes Western Australia’s unique plants, wildlife, and ecosystems while highlighting the region’s remarkable biodiversity through personal experiences and natural history. For more information, visit alachuaaudubon.org/events/programs.
Stand-Up Comedy with Chris Cope
Nationally touring comedian Chris Cope brings his stand-up act to Signal, 7 SW First St., at 8 p.m. July 9. Known for appearances on television, comedy festivals, streaming platforms and national comedy specials, Cope headlines an evening of live comedy that also features local guest performers. The show offers a chance to enjoy a night of laughs in an intimate downtown venue. For tickets and more information, visit tinyurl.com/4t39z82t.
ONGOING
Community Nights
Community Nights are free weekly events hosted by South Main Station and Heartwood Soundstage that include a rotating calendar of jams, skillshares, concerts, arts markets, food and drink specials, and other activities each Wednesday from 6 to 9 p.m. The event has grown in popularity with families, locals, musicians, and college students since its launch in 2024. The event takes place at South Main Station, an arts, food, and entertainment campus adjacent to Depot Park, spanning the Southeast corner of Main Street and Depot Road. Community Nights always feature free live music and drink specials at Heartwood Soundstage’s lawn bar, but any given week can also include skillshares on music and videography, kids’ activities, film screenings, and opportunities to sample local food and drink at South Main’s businesses, which include Humble Pie Pizzeria, Grand Scheme Brewery, Bingo Deli, and Afternoon Coffee. The first Wednesday of every month always features an open-air arts market of local makers and an old-time music jam. More information is available at heartwoodsoundstage.com.
Horse Feeding
The Retirement Home for Horses provides lifetime care to elderly horses seized by law enforcement agencies, rescued by the SPCA or humane societies, and horses retired from government service, such as police patrol or state and federal parks. They allow visitors to tour the property and feed treats — carrots, apple slices and bananas provided by the visitors — from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Saturday. Mill Creek Farm Retirement Home for Horses is located at 20307 NW CR 235A in Alachua. For more information or to support the nonprofit, visit millcreekfarm.org.
WACKY Wednesdays
WACKY Wednesdays takes place every Wednesday from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Alachua Branch Library, 14913 NW 140th St. in Alachua. Children can enjoy a different hands-on activity each week, including arts and crafts, LEGO building, MakerSpace projects, board and card games, and video games. Designed to encourage creativity, imagination, and social interaction, this free weekly program offers a fun and welcoming space for kids to explore, create, and play after school. For more information, visit aclib.us/alachua-branch.
COMING SOON
‘Free Fridays’ Concert
Catch the next performance of the city’s popular “Free Fridays” concert series from 7 to 9 p.m. July 10 at the Bo Diddley Plaza downtown amphitheater, located at 111 E. University Ave. The free concert series highlights a different act each week, with the MusicGNV Live and Local Edition Showcase featuring Dirty Chai, Creative Vibes and Sir Flame this week. Attendees are encouraged to bring their blankets and lawn chairs to Bo Diddley Plaza to enjoy the concert under the stars. For more information, including a list of upcoming performances, visit gainesvillefl.gov/Events-directory/Free-Fridays-Concert-Series. Future performances include A.Sunroom, Lowly Worm and The Fantastic Beverages, and Varsity Tuba Quartet on July 17; Pet Detectives performing ’90s covers on July 24; Uncle Mosie and Matthew Fowler performing alt-country and bluegrasson on July 31; Bennie and Da Band performing R&B on Aug. 7; the Beatles tribute band The Impostors on Aug. 14; Maca Reggae Samba on Aug. 21; Sooza Brass Band on Aug. 28; D.R. Band and Soul Fire performing R&B, neo soul and funk on Sept. 4; the Fest 24 Showcase featuring Wolf Face, Night Mayor and The Mermers on Sept. 11; the Latina Women’s League Showcase on Sept. 18; and Uncle Morty’s Rhythm Cream performing R&B, soul and rock on Sept. 25.
Back-to-School Event
The J.C. Carter Foundation Inc. and JMC Legacy Enterprise LLC will present what’s billed as a Back-to-School event from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. July 11 at the King Center in Gainesville at 1028 NE 14th St. The event will include the giving away of backpacks and school supplies, community agencies and organizations that provide resources for families, games, a DJ and food. It will also feature a Mini Sports Camp. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED.
‘Heathers — The Musical’
Gainesville Community Playhouse will present “Heathers — The Musical” from July 17 to Aug. 9, with performances at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. Directed by Sam Rhodes, the darkly comedic rock musical follows high school student Veronica Sawyer as she navigates the toxic social hierarchy of the “Heathers” and a dangerous relationship that spirals into violence. Featuring music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy and based on the film by Daniel Waters, the show explores themes of identity, bullying and teen rebellion. Recommended for mature audiences, the production may contain strong language and depictions of violence, substance use and other adult themes. The playhouse is located at 4039 NW 16th Blvd. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit gcplayhouse.org.
‘Robin Hood’
In “Robin Hood,” the newest production from High Springs Playhouse, the classic tale of the prince of thieves is retold through the lively narration of Friar Tuck, bringing Sherwood Forest to life with familiar characters including Little John, Maid Marian and the Sheriff of Nottingham. The summer youth production runs from July 23 to Aug. 2 at High Springs Playhouse, located at 23416 W. U.S. 27 in High Springs, with performances at 7 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays. Tickets are $17 for adults and $15 for seniors and students. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit highspringsplayhouse.com.
’13’
Acrosstown Repertory Theatre’s Youthtroupe presents “13,” a coming-of-age musical following Evan Goldman, a New York City teen whose life is turned upside down when his parents’ divorce forces him to move to a small Indiana town. As he navigates middle school friendships and the pressures of fitting in, Evan must decide where he belongs. The production runs July 31 through August 16, with performances at 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays. The theatre is located at 3501 SW Second Ave, Suite O. To purchase tickets, visit acrosstown.org.
The Brook and the Bluff
The Brook and the Bluff will bring its “Werewolf” tour to Heartwood Soundstage, 619 S. Main St., on Nov. 6. The Nashville-based indie rock band recently released its album “Werewolf” through Dualtone Records and will spend the fall touring across the United States. Known for its four-part harmonies and energetic live performances, the group’s latest record leans into a louder, more guitar-driven sound inspired by years on the road. For more information, visit thebrookandthebluff.com
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.gainesville.com ’
