With Christmas fast approaching there are still plenty of things to do if you want to get out and enjoy Christmas in Gainesville, FL! Go to the theater and see a hysterical play, wear your ugliest sweater to win a contest, or take a tour and feed big cats! Read on for more fun and events! We even threw in a couple of ideas for New Year’s Eve in Gainesville for good measure! Happy Holidays!
Gainesville has many things to do and see all year long. You can easily plan your vacation itinerary with so many options. Check out our blog to find out some of the best recommendations and to get to know our city better!
4 Fun Ideas to do for Christmas in Gainesville, FL
Wine Tastings in Gainesville, FL
Sweetwater Branch Inn Holiday Wine Tasting Event
Dec. 4th, 6 – 8 pm
Enjoy trying four different kinds of wines along with tapa plates!
The Fat Tuscan Holiday Wine Pairing & Chef Dinner
Dec. 23rd, 5 – 8 pm (sold out)
Go to Hippodrome Theater
A theater with an education program where you can attend plays, cinema, and view an art gallery. They have two holiday plays you can buy tickets for.
One of Gainesville’s favorites, see the classic A Christmas Carol, which stays true to the original story but with cheerful holiday music and cheer for everyone! You can see the play until Dec. 23rd.
Murder for Two – Holiday Edition
A killer comedy for the holidays! Two actors play all the parts and the music, making you laugh the entire time! It goes until Dec. 22nd. Check the website for times and tickets!
Black Adder Brewing
Dec. 22nd, 7 – 8:30 pm
Join in the ugly with your best and ugliest Christmas sweater! Prizes are for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Be there at 8 pm to win. A food truck will be on location.
Dec. 23rd, 7 – 9 pm
The trivia is based on the books and movies. Prizes will be awarded to the winners! Check their Facebook and website for more information.
Enjoy Tours and Events for Christmas in Gainesville, FL
Tour Gainesville Christmas Lights
Visit the Facebook page Gainesville Area Christmas Light Displays and get the map with all the locations where you can see Christmas lights. Make your own plan and tour the city to see some fun and exciting Christmas light displays.
Dec. 21st, 7 – 9 pm
Enjoy traditional Christmas live in this annual tradition with the Currys on the Heartwood lawn.
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops
Until Dec. 24th
Get a free photo with Santa! Make a reservation online.
Dec. 24th and Dec. 26th
Take a Christmas Walk or Ride Tour. Enjoy outdoor family fun touring big cats. You will be guided by professional zoologists and get up close to big cats. Learn more about them in this Christmas-themed tour! Book online for the best availability!
A History of Kwanzaa with Kali Blount
Dec. 27th
Learn about African American culture at the annual celebration of Kwanzaa. Local historians will share the history of Kwanzaa and how it is celebrated.
New Year’s Eve Celebrations
Dec. 31st, 5:30 – 8:30 pm
Watch a fireworks show from Cade’s Museum! Enjoy family fun with games, experiments, a glow party, and more!
New Year’s Eve: A Gainesville Homecoming
Dec. 31st, 7 pm – 2 am
If you like dancing, you will love this New Year’s Eve Dance Party with DJ A-Train! Dance to classics from every decade!
Things to Do in Gainesville Coming Up
We always have exciting things going on in Gainesville. So even if you don’t make it for Christmas, there are still other holiday events coming up that might interest you. And you might be interested in our many winter activities as well!
Book a Winter Holiday in Gainesville at the Sweetwater Branch Inn
What better place to enjoy the winter months than sunny Florida? Book a stay at our gorgeous bed & breakfast and enjoy the finest Florida has to offer!
We are in the heart of downtown Gainesville, which gives you close access to many great activities, events, and restaurants. See our accommodations and book your stay with us!