Whatever your interests may be, chances are you’ll encounter something that appeals to you at one of the many festivals in Gainesville. Plan your vacation around a myriad of events! Attend unique medieval affairs and fun beer festivals. Go to environmentally conscious fundraisers and unique art shows. Try your hand at jousting and jesting. You can even partake in a watermelon eating contest. History buffs, art aficionados, and nature lovers all flock to Florida for these events
Browse the thoughtful suggestions compiled by our local experts in our insider’s guide! Within, you’ll discover great ideas on what to do and see in the area.
10 of the Best Festivals in Gainesville Year-Round
January
Hoggetowne Medieval Faire
The Hoggetowne Medieval Faire comes to town every January for two weekends of Renaissance fun. The Alachua County Fairgrounds is transformed into a bustling medieval marketplace. Step back in time when you see knights jousting, jugglers, and knife throwers. Make sure to wear your medieval finery!
February
Cinema Verde Environmental Film and Arts Festival
The Cinema Verde Environmental Film and Arts Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that was created to raise awareness of environmental issues. Additionally, this event promotes sustainability. Listen to speakers, watch films and documentaries, and learn about the environment!
March
Kanapaha Spring Garden Festival
Every spring, the Kanapaha Botanical Gardens hosts this stunning festival to showcase all things horticulture. As you weave through these Gainesville gardens, admire 150 booths of gorgeous landscape displays and homemade crafts, all for purchase! Expect to go home with bundles of colorful flowers to brighten up your day.
Hogtown Craft Beer Festival
The Hogtown Craft Beer Festival comes every March, bringing with it incredible beer tastings and terrific food. At this event, sample beers from various local, regional, and national breweries, then pair it with some local cuisine!
Alachua County Youth Fair & Livestock Show
Each year, Alachua County hosts a Youth Fair & Livestock Show with the purpose of being a fun event to educate the youth in agriculture, and maybe even inspire some interest for the future farmers and artisans in northern Florida!
April
Santa Fe Spring Arts Festival
The Santa Fe Spring Arts Festival is the longest-running of all the festivals in Gainesville, Florida. This 2-day festival occurs every April. Experience paintings, sculptures, jewelry, live jazz, and more at this outdoor festival.
May
Newberry Watermelon Festival
If you love watermelon, then you have to come to the Newberry Watermelon Festival in May! This event celebrates everything that has to do with the tasty fruit. Enjoy a watermelon parade, a watermelon eating contest, a seed-spitting contest, and the largest watermelon competition.
October
Micanopy Fall Harvest Festival
The Micanopy Fall Harvest Festival is a great way for you to enjoy the changing of the seasons with northern Florida locals! Micanopy is just 12 miles away from Gainesville, Florida, and each year hosts this event where you can enjoy delicious food, entertainment for all ages, and fun shopping throughout 0ver 250 vendor booths spread across town.
Lubee Bat Conservancy’s Florida Bat Festival
The Florida Bat Festival comes to Gainesville every year around Halloween. Learn about these unique flying mammals at the Lubee Bat Conservancy. They will get the bats to come out and play with fruits and toys. Here, you can see species of bats that are rarely seen by the public!
November
Downtown Festival and Art Show
The Downtown Festival and Art Show is the largest outdoor art show in the country! This November event draws more than 100,000 people to the area. Hundreds of artists from around the world gather here to display paintings, sculptures, and photography. Enjoy food and live music while you browse!
Stay at Sweetwater Branch Inn
If you’re planning on being in town for some festivals in Gainesville, Florida, stay with us at Sweetwater Branch Inn. We offer 20 gorgeous guest rooms, suites, and cottages. Our accommodations are perfect for any occasion! We combine the best of Southern hospitality and Victorian comfort. Enjoy the best of today’s modern amenities and conveniences. Just minutes from Downtown Gainesville, we are in an ideal location for your visit!
Plan your dream vacation and book your stay with us!