Events in Columbia County, FL

Explore Ichetucknee Springs from a new angle on a guided paddle in a clear tandem kayak along the Ichetucknee River. An experienced guide highlights wildlife and shares insights into the history and ecology of this celebrated Florida spring system. The outing begins at the South Entrance, with shuttle service provided to the North Canoe Launch. All essentials are included, with a paddle and life vest provided, and the experience is beginner friendly. Clear kayaks seat up to two adults with a combined weight limit of 425 pounds. The price is $65 per person. Park admission is separate, with an entry fee of $6 per vehicle for up to eight guests. Tours are offered on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Spots fill quickly.

This weekly Riftbound Constructed tournament features head-to-head best of three matches. Entry is $10. Participants receive Nexus Night promo packs while supplies last, and one and a half booster packs per entrant are added to the prize pool. Signups occur before a prompt start, and players who do not arrive and check in before play begins may receive a refund and forfeit their spot. Entry is limited and advance tickets are available online. The venue includes a dedicated gaming area with refreshments and a selection of products ranging from single cards to RPGs and miniatures, suitable for both new and experienced players.

A weekly Magic: The Gathering Pauper tournament features decks built entirely from cards printed at common rarity. Signups take place shortly before a prompt start. The entry fee is $10, and two booster packs per entry are added to the prize pool, chosen by each player. The winner receives a traditional foil Dark Deed promo card while supplies last, and participants receive a WPN promo pack while supplies last. Matches are one on one, best of three, with a minimum 60 card main deck and up to a 15 card sideboard. Games typically last about 20 minutes. Rounds use a Swiss structure, with the total number based on turnout. Proxies are not permitted. Advance tickets are available on the store website and entry is limited. Failure to arrive and check in before the start may result in a refund and the forfeiture of the reserved spot. The host location provides a clean, comfortable play area, refreshments, and a broad selection that ranges from single cards to RPGs and miniatures. This tournament runs every week.

Experience a blend of R&B, soul, and rock as Uncle Morty's Rhythm Cream performs at Bo Diddley Plaza. Presented as part of the Free Fridays Concert Series, this concert is free and open to everyone.

At the Promenade, a music event features an eclectic mix across country, rock, soul, and more. It offers a relaxed start to the weekend with plenty of music, food, and a lively atmosphere.

Make it a playful night out at Bragging Rights with a $40 couple’s package that includes admission for two, two drink tickets, and unlimited arcade play. Pick up the Date Night Challenge Sheet at the counter and take on ten head to head matchups across fighters, racing cabinets, pinball, rhythm games, skeeball, air hockey, and more. Face off in Street Fighter, run the same track in Cruis’n World, team up for a Gauntlet Legends co op, then cap it with a quick 10 minute sprint where you switch games every two minutes. When it is all over, one of you walks away with the bragging rights. No reservations and no dress code.

Florida Gators Football takes on Ole Miss Rebels Football at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. Express Entry registration is available. Tickets will be delivered, and they cannot be viewed or managed until they are sent. A public onsale and a resale period are scheduled.

At Olustee Park, the City of Lake City presents the Growers & Makers Market on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month. Shoppers can purchase directly from local growers and makers, with arts and crafts booths, farmers market vendors, and food trucks on site. The market focuses on connecting residents with community producers and handmade goods.

Walk with a Doc is a no-cost community walk at Depot Park, guided by a local UF Health health care provider. All ages and ability levels are welcome. Participants take a safe walk, learn about current health topics, and connect with others in the community.

Bring your game to a friendly and competitive Adult Mixed Doubles Social at Youngs Park Tennis Courts in Lake City, FL. Players of every experience level are welcome, and there is no fee to participate. Come with a partner or arrive solo and be paired on site. This casual gathering offers a chance to sharpen skills, connect with new tennis partners, and enjoy time on the courts.

Tabletop roleplaying takes center stage with fast, single-session adventures from Pathfinder, D&D Adventures League, and a selection of indie RPGs. The lineup features Pathfinder tables, beginner-friendly and advanced D&D Adventures League options, plus indie titles, offering a variety of worlds to explore. Both newcomers and experienced players ages 16 and up are welcome. Seating is limited at each table and filled on a first come, first served basis. The venue, PunkOuter Games, provides a clean, comfortable play area with refreshments and shelves stocked with cards, RPGs, miniatures, and more, making it easy to relax between sessions and find supplies for your next game.

This guided meditation offers an immersive space at Sacred Earth to deepen spiritual and intuitive awareness. It incorporates shamanic practices, breathwork, journeying, guided visualization, and Tibetan Buddhism, all focused on cultivating a stronger connection to the Divine within. Suggested donation is $10.

Ole Miss travels to Gainesville for an SEC clash with the Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Both teams are known for quick, physical play, and their meetings often hinge on momentum shifts. As conference action picks up, this game offers a clear read on where each program stands.

Carnival For a Cause is returning to the Baker County Ag Fair. This community carnival supports a cause. Opportunities to volunteer or sponsor are available through the organizers.

Honor the Harvest Moon, the full moon that falls nearest the autumnal equinox, with a guided meditation shaped for this lunar energy. Caitlyn leads the practice with an emphasis on gratitude for what has come to fruition and on setting intentions to welcome more blessings throughout the remainder of the year. A special warm moon milk is offered with the session. The cost is $45, and advance registration is required directly with Relax Salt Rooms.

Celebrate the 2nd Annual Laced Up for Love Sneaker Ball at the Howard Center at Florida Gateway College. This family friendly gala features a seated meal, lively dancing, and a fundraising program that supports Catholic Charities Lake City and the Florida Gateway Food Bank. The event helps provide food, encouragement, and vital services to neighbors across Columbia, Hamilton, Lafayette, Suwannee, and Union counties. Guests can pair formal or cocktail attire with their favorite sneakers. Children and grandchildren are welcome, creating a meaningful experience for all ages. Tickets are $75 for adults and $35 for children ages 13 and under. Apex Imaging serves as the presenting sponsor.

Heartwood Soundstage hosts French acoustic guitar virtuoso, vocalist, and composer Pierre Bensusan as part of The Infinite Guitar Tour 2026. Often called Mister DADGAD, he has shared his distinctive sound with audiences worldwide. His honors include an Independent Music Award for the triple live album Encore, recognition as Best World Music Guitarist in Guitar Player Magazine’s readers poll, and the Rose d’Or at the Montreux Festival for his debut. This performance highlights a fluid, nuanced style that can seem as though the instrument is leading the way, presented by an artist widely regarded among the foremost guitarists of this century.

This weekly constructed event for the Digimon card game offers structured competitive play. Entry is $10, and for each participant 1.5 booster packs are added to the prize pool. Tournament Packs may be available while supplies last. Registration takes place before a prompt start. Capacity is limited, and tickets are available for advance purchase online. Participants who do not arrive and check in before the event begins may receive a refund and forfeit their spot. A Discord community shares updates on Digimon events at PunkOuter. PunkOuter Games provides a well-kept, comfortable play area with refreshments and a wide selection that ranges from single cards to RPGs and miniatures, welcoming both new and experienced players. This tournament takes place every Saturday.

A weekly One Piece constructed tournament invites players for organized play every Saturday. The entry fee is $10, and 1.5 booster packs per participant are added to the prize pool. Tournament packs will be on hand while supplies last. Space is limited, and tickets can be purchased online ahead of time. Participants who do not arrive and check in before the start may receive a refund and lose their spot. PunkOuter Games provides a comfortable play space with refreshments and a wide selection of gaming products, including single cards, roleplaying games, and miniatures.

The Limelight Suite 11 hosts a Laugh Local stand-up showcase with performances by Curtis, Houston, Quaybae, Rex, and Tekk. Jef from Laugh Local serves as host, introducing each comedian.

This free, casual Magic: The Gathering Commander open play invites participants to enjoy games at their own pace. Players set up their own pods and manage gameplay. A code will be available in store for those who choose to use the Magic Companion App to take part. The app is used by Wizards to track in-store participation and can affect what promotional items the store may receive and distribute at future Magic events. Using the Magic Companion App is preferred, but it is not required to play. PunkOuter Games provides a friendly place to relax, refuel, and game, featuring a clean, comfortable play area, refreshments, and a well-stocked selection ranging from single cards to RPGs and miniatures for both newcomers and longtime players.

A relaxed, social build day for Gunpla fans to make progress on backlogged projects or begin something new. The gathering is open to both newcomers and experienced builders, creating a friendly setting to share tips and build together. PunkOuter Games provides a comfortable gaming area with refreshments and a broad selection of hobby items, including single cards, RPGs, and miniatures.

A welcoming weekly brunch features a broad mix of sweet and savory plates, with room for both large and small parties. For guaranteed seating, send reservations to contact@halpatters.com. Highlights include Bruleed French Toast Stix and Honey Whipped Feta Dip, along with rotating picks like Quiche of the Week and Four Cheese Grilled Cheese paired with Soup of the Week. Hearty options range from a Breakfast Croissant Sandwich, Biscuits and Gravy, and a BLT to Shrimp and Grits, a Mexican Breakfast Bowl, a Breakfast Burrito, and a Patty Melt. A la carte choices make it easy to build a plate with Hashbrowns, eggs cooked your way, Tater Tots, Bacon, Sausage Gravy, Toast, a Biscuit, Soup of the Week, or a Grilled Cheese. Brunch cocktails include Mimosas available bottomless or by the glass, Bloody Marys in regular, spicy, or loaded styles, plus Sparkling Rose, Blue Moscato, and Watermelon Rose.

This weekly Gundam constructed tournament welcomes players to compete in a structured format. Sign-up opens before the start and matches begin promptly, so checking in early is important. The entry fee is $10, and for every entry 1.5 booster packs are added to the prize pool. Tickets can be purchased on the organizer’s website in advance, and entry is limited, so advance purchase is recommended to secure a spot. Those who do not arrive and check in before play begins may receive a refund and forfeit their place. PunkOuter Games provides a clean, comfortable gaming area with refreshments and a wide selection of single cards, RPGs, and miniatures. This event takes place every Sunday.

Enjoy friendly Pokémon matches at PunkOuter Games with guidance from a Pokémon Professor who helps set up games, answers rules questions, and judges card interactions when needed. Participation is free and open to all ages, welcoming both newcomers and experienced players. Beginners are encouraged to attend, though the Professor may not be able to provide dedicated one-on-one instruction for the entire session. Separate learn-to-play sessions are available and can be found on the store calendar. If there is strong interest, staff may launch a tournament during the gathering. The venue offers a comfortable play space with refreshments and a wide selection of gaming products, including single cards, RPGs, and miniatures. This event recurs regularly.

Presented by Glory Days, this stand-up night features comedian and actor Johnny Pemberton with Lisa Pockets. Pemberton is known for portraying Bo on NBC’s Superstore and has appeared in films including 21 Jump Street, 22 Jump Street, Neighbors 2, The Watch, Ant-Man, Action Point, This Is 40, and Armando Iannucci’s Oscar-nominated In The Loop. On television he plays Thaddeus in Fallout on Amazon, appeared as Max in FX’s You’re The Worst, and led FOX’s Son of Zorn. He tours nationwide with appearances at Just for Laughs in Montreal, the Moontower Comedy Festival in Austin, and SXSW. His voice credits include Pickle and Peanut, Bob’s Burgers, Adventure Time, Middlemost Post, and Netflix’s The Midnight Gospel, where he also contributed as a writer. He is the host of the podcast LIVE to TAPE with Johnny Pemberton, formerly Twisting The Wind, with hundreds of episodes. Premium up-front and general admission seating are available, with college discount options. Entry is for ages 18 and over, and a $5 cash fee is charged at the door for attendees under 21. A physical government-issued ID is required. The schedule may change. The venue is smoke free. All ticket sales are final unless the show is canceled. Attendance signifies acceptance of standard event policies and an assumption of risk, including COVID-19 related risks, as outlined by the presenter.

This indoor, all-ages show spotlights The Cold Stares, a rare modern blues-rock power trio from Evansville, Indiana. Formed in 2012 as a duo, the band expanded its sound in 2022 with the addition of bassist Bryce Klueh. Their music blends fuzz-laden guitars, classic rock riffs, quick Cream-inspired improvisations, and touches of Delta blues with a strong focus on songwriting and lyrics. The group continues to define what a modern blues-rock trio can be with an upcoming album titled Texas, a salute to Texas and influences such as ZZ Top and the Vaughan brothers. They have earned recognition from outlets including Classic Rock Magazine, No Depression, and American Songwriter, reached the top of Amazon Music’s Blues Rock albums chart, and placed consecutive releases in the Billboard Blues top ten. Their songs have appeared in advertising for Dodge and Chevy, on television series like Animal Kingdom and Sex Education, and in video games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and UFL. Seating upgrades are available at check out. Funded in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County.

This community-minded sewing session focuses on giving by piecing quilt tops together. No prior experience is required, so people at any level of sewing experience can take part. Every bit of effort, from a single stitch to a few minutes of help, contributes to a meaningful project centered on love, honor, and healing, with quilt tops created together.

Pumpkin Palooza at Wild Roots debuts as the first installment of a new tradition, building on the momentum of the grand opening. Organizers are preparing by clearing fields, increasing parking, and redesigning the vendor layout to create a bigger autumn experience. Attendees can look forward to a large pumpkin marketplace, memorable photo spots for families, and a festive Florida fall vibe. The team is actively scouting local markets, hidden studios, and creative spaces across nearby counties to curate a lineup of makers, creators, and artisans. Community recommendations are welcome, and makers are encouraged to watch their stories for updates as formal applications will open in the coming months. There is no cost for vendors to set up, and the organizers advise against paying anyone due to scams.

Celebrating its 41st year, this Gainesville tradition transforms the Shoppes at Thornebrook into a lively showcase of creativity and culture. Returning favorites appear alongside new exhibitors, with work spanning painting, sculpture, photography, glass, fiber arts, wood carvings, pottery, jewelry, and more. The event layout takes full advantage of the setting’s ambiance and convenience, offering easy access to shops, restaurants, and other amenities while exploring the displays. It is a weekend filled with artistic inspiration, culinary delights, and community spirit, with many opportunities to appreciate and support talented local artists.

Community Spring hosts its first annual block party with live music, local brews, and a wide mix of food trucks and small businesses. The celebration blends great tastes and sounds with a purpose, supporting Community Spring’s mission to break the cycle of poverty and mass incarceration. Expect an upbeat neighborhood vibe, plenty of bites and sips, and opportunities to connect while contributing to meaningful community work.

A pet vaccine clinic will be set up in the parking area at Pine Grove Apartments, a senior housing community. Pet owners who are seniors, military personnel, or experiencing financial limitations are eligible for services. Please bring a photo ID or documentation of a government assistance program such as SSI, SSDI, or Food Stamps to confirm eligibility. Vaccines are $22 and nail trims are $15. Additional services include exams, microchipping, heartworm testing, and flea and heartworm prevention, with more available on site.

Bathed in candlelight, the Listeso String Quartet presents an intimate tribute to the music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons at The Hippodrome Theatre in Gainesville. The program highlights string interpretations of favorites including Clocks, Viva la Vida, The Scientist, Fix You, Adventure of a Lifetime, feelslikeimfallinginlove, and Something Just Like This, alongside Radioactive, Believer, Bad Liar, Follow You, Eyes Closed, and Nice to Meet You. Seating within each zone is assigned in the order of arrival. Attendees must be 8 or older, with those under 16 accompanied by an adult. Accessibility note: the venue does not meet ADA accessibility standards.

Flamingosis brings a feel good fusion of carefully crafted electronic grooves, live instruments, and a splash of funk to Heartwood Soundstage. Guided by artist and producer Aaron Velasquez, who grew up in New Jersey and is based in Brooklyn, the set is built for the dancefloor, the kind of vibe that belongs beneath a spinning disco ball. Expect a wave of uplifting energy that gets bodies moving, sparks romance, or even inspires a new outlook. This performance takes place on the indoor stage. The format is standing room, with a limited option to upgrade to a seat during checkout.

In its sixth year, Treat Yourself is an established annual gathering at Sweetwater Branch Inn that brings together small businesses, wellness professionals, and the local community for an afternoon of indulgence with a charitable purpose supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida. Guests can browse a local vendor showcase, enjoy music and entertainment with giveaways, and unwind with signature beverages, savory bites, and a range of self-care and wellness experiences. A silent auction featuring luxury brands including designer handbags and fine jewelry adds even more ways to participate. Tickets are $75 and include a champagne and chocolate welcome, a self-care swag bag filled with treats from event vendors, a complimentary Neveskin facial valued at $200 provided by Club Synergie, beginner-friendly fitness and flow classes, relaxing chair massages, access to the silent auction, and a chance to win $1,000 in Club Synergie body sculpting treatments.

A monthly mixer brings together Black career professionals and entrepreneurs for networking and meaningful conversation. It takes place on the first Monday of each month and features $8 martinis and appetizers available all evening, a welcoming crowd, and plenty of opportunities to connect. Admission is free and open to anyone interested in building community. The first 25 people to arrive can receive a complimentary drink with RSVP.

Connect with business and real estate professionals from the Gainesville area at an in-person networking mixer at Kairos Events and Catering. This gathering welcomes business owners, real estate specialists, and anyone interested in the industry. Expect opportunities to exchange insights, learn from experienced peers, explore new strategies, and build meaningful professional relationships. Details such as speakers and activities may evolve, and registration is available for reminders and updates.

Suwannee Roots Revival presents a four day gathering centered on music, art, and community at the Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak, Florida.

Hosted by Wandering Adventures, this women-focused river retreat blends comfort, connection, and outdoor fun. Settle into a private riverside cabin with real beds, a full kitchen, and river views for a three night stay. Days feature guided kayak and paddleboard outings on crystal clear springs and winding waterways, time to explore nature, and delicious home-cooked meals prepared by the hosts. Evenings center on conversation around the campfire and skies filled with stars, creating a relaxed sense of community. All gear is provided, and the guides handle everything from equipment to the grocery list so participants can simply enjoy the experience. Only four spots are available, and they tend to sell out quickly.

A stand-up comedy open mic at The Limelight Variety Hour welcomes performers who want to try a set and audiences who want to enjoy live comedy. Sign-up takes place before the show begins. The event draws a local Gainesville crowd.

Hosted by the City of Lake City at Olustee Park, the Growers and Makers Market creates a friendly space to buy directly from local growers and makers. The market features artisan craft booths, farm vendors with fresh goods, and a variety of food trucks, offering an easy way to support community businesses and discover locally made items.

The Import Face-Off national car show series arrives at Gainesville Raceway with a full slate of motorsport and show features. Expect a car, truck, and bike showcase, quarter-mile drag racing, a burnout contest if time allows, vendor displays, a stereo sound competition, a pit midway, low car limbo, a two-step and rev competition, and a meet and greet with Noel G, also known as Hector. Admission is $25 for adults, or $30 for adult entry with parking on the pit side. Children 10 and under are free. Competitor fees are $35 for a non-judged show entry, $40 for a judged show entry, $40 to compete in the Stereo Crank It Up contest, and $40 for drag racer entry. Once inside, the burnout contest, low car limbo, and two-step competition have no additional entry fee. Tickets and competitor registrations are available at the front gate while capacity remains, and purchasing in advance guarantees entry.

Settle in on the Promenade for an evening of live jazz. Jazz on the Green highlights talented musicians on the second Saturday of each month, with a different performer featured monthly. Pick up a drink or a sweet treat, find a comfortable spot, and unwind to smooth melodies.

Support local survivors of domestic violence at the 2nd Annual Strength in Strides Domestic Violence Awareness Walk with Peaceful Paths. The pre-walk program takes place at First Magnitude Brewing Company, followed by a one-mile awareness walk through Depot Park, with the start and finish at First Magnitude Brewing Company. Attendees can learn about free and confidential services available through Peaceful Paths. The event features food trucks, music, and family-friendly activities that promote awareness. Options to register, sponsor, or donate are available, and additional details will be shared as the event approaches.

Boo’s Night Out brings Halloween fun to Veterans Park in the downtown area with a spirited evening featuring a variety of vendors, exciting games, festive music, and tasty options from food trucks. Activities are suitable for all ages, creating a family friendly outing with playful spooky touches. Costumes are encouraged for anyone who wants to get into the spirit.

The second annual Great Pumpkin Bash fills Bo Diddley Plaza with fall fun in downtown Gainesville. Families can explore a corn maze, play carnival games, pick out pumpkins, enjoy food, get faces painted, and capture memories at a themed photo booth, along with other festive touches. Admission is free and open to the public. Presented by the City of Gainesville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department.

Newberry Animal Hospital and the City of Gainesville host an end of summer celebration for dogs at H. Spurgeon Cherry Pool. Dogs can splash in the main pool and play on the splash pad, while people remain out of the water. A Halloween costume contest features gift baskets from Newberry Animal Hospital valued between $75 and $125, with categories that include Best Dog and Owner Pair, Scariest Dog, Funniest Dog, Most Creative Dog, and Best Overall Dog. A fundraiser raffle offers prizes from local businesses, and all proceeds support Alachua County animal rescues such as the Humane Society of North Central Florida and Puppy Hill Farm. Pre-registration is available. Entry requires proof of rabies vaccination and a $5 fee per dog.

Area34 hosts Camp Wubble at Hulaween 2026, setting up in the Bird Sanctuary with EDM sets happening throughout the day and into the night. Use discount code AREA34 at checkout to save.

Suwannee Hulaween 2026 transforms Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park into a spooky and spectacular celebration of sound, art, and imagination. Over four days, the forest setting fills with high energy performances, interactive art installations, and Halloween themed pageantry, creating a costumed masquerade with surprises around every corner. Use passcode RAVEFAM for $20 off.

Hosted by the City of Lake City, this recurring community market takes place on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. It is designed to connect residents with local growers and makers, offering a welcoming place to shop close to home. Browse handmade arts and crafts, explore selections from farmers market vendors, and grab a bite from food trucks.

Celebrate Halloween with a family-friendly Trunk or Treat at the Darby Pavilion. Enjoy creative costumes, festively decorated trunks, and plenty of candy in a safe setting. It is an easy way to embrace the spooky season. Costumes are encouraged for a frightfully fun experience.

Young athletes ages 4 to 15 can participate in a triathlon that includes swim, bike, and run. All experience levels are welcome, from first-timers to those with previous experience. It provides an opportunity for kids to take part in all three disciplines in a single event.

A candlelit tribute to Fleetwood Mac transforms The Hippodrome Theatre in Gainesville into an intimate, multi-sensory setting as the Listeso String Quartet performs beloved songs from the band’s catalog. The concert lasts 60 minutes, with doors opening 45 minutes beforehand, and late entry is not permitted once the performance begins. Seating is assigned on a first come, first served basis within each zone. The tentative program includes favorites such as Everywhere, Gypsy, You Make Loving Fun, Never Going Back Again, Don't Stop, Gold Dust Woman, Go Your Own Way, Landslide, Songbird, Rhiannon, and The Chain. The event is open to ages 8 and up, and anyone under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Please note that the venue is not ADA compliant.

The Brook & The Bluff bring their rock and roll edge back to the stage with Werewolf, a live-wired album built for big volume, quickened tempos, and rich four-part harmonies. Grounded in tight songwriting and layered vocals that run through their catalog, the new material captures the raw surge of their concerts. After nearly a decade of steady touring and hundreds of millions of streams for favorites like “Halfway Up” and “Everything Is Just a Mess,” the band regrouped in Nashville, meeting each morning to write and rehearse as they once did in Birmingham while life changes unfolded in the background. The music nods to the swampy grit of Creedence, Petty, and The Eagles, with loud, melodic cuts like the lead single “Super Bowl Sunday,” an anthemic and reflective track about ego and blind spots. Built to feel like a set from the stage, the project fuels their Werewolf tour. With a track record of sold out headline runs, major festival appearances, and support dates with artists including Noah Kahan, Mt. Joy, The Avett Brothers, Ashe, and Rainbow Kitten Surprise, the band returns to the road with bold spirit and a show shaped by the electricity of their live sound.

Experience a point-to-point and looped trail running challenge that finishes at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs, Florida, showcasing miles of riverside paths and towering oaks. The 50k travels from Suwannee Springs back to the park with little to no repeated terrain, and a pre-race shuttle from the finish to the start is available for an additional fee. The 25k is also point to point with an optional shuttle, while the 10k follows a single loop that begins and ends inside the park. Runners can expect routes framed by massive oaks and continual views of the Suwannee River, with cypress needles turning color alongside magnolias and some of the area’s largest oak trees for a striking fall backdrop. Most proceeds benefit the Florida Trail Association, the nonprofit that develops, maintains, protects, and promotes Florida’s network of hiking trails, including the Florida National Scenic Trail. Organized by Run Bum Races, a team of trail and ultra runners, the courses are extensively marked and supported by on-course aid, with a focus on advancing trail work and supporting the Florida Trail Association.

Old Florida Gravel brings a full slate of endurance fun to All-Tech Raceway in Lake City, Florida. Participants navigate dirt roads shaded by oaks draped in Spanish moss, then take in the classic feel of an all-dirt speedway. Gravel cyclists can choose 35, 70, or 100 miles. There will be kids events on the dirt track. Teams of four to six can tackle the Redline Relay, a 1.5 hour ride around the oval. A 5K also follows the track and nearby gravel roads. Expect courses that challenge the body while delivering memorable scenery and a timeless Old Florida vibe.

For one day, a nursery transforms into an art scavenger hunt. Creative pieces wait where you least expect them... nestled in foliage, suspended between branches, and placed along the paths you explore. It is neither a gallery nor a market, rather an experience that invites a slower pace, a second look, and genuine curiosity. Some artworks are easy to spot, while others reveal themselves only to attentive wanderers. Admission is free.

A multi-day celebration of Tom Petty’s music unfolds at Heartwood with performances on both indoor and outdoor stages and a welcoming community vibe. The weekend begins with a Diamond & Gold VIP only pre-festival dinner featuring special performances, then opens to general admission with a kick-off concert on the outdoor stage, followed by two full festival days across both stages. The lineup includes Stan Lynch & The Speaker Wars, White Denim, Jake Thistle Band, Joe Crookston, Asydequest, Nancy Luca Band, Have Gun, Will Travel, Spencer Thomas, Mike Boulware and the Gaines Villains with a Byrds tribute, Kristopher James, Nolia Joy & The Ramblers, PK Yonge Band, The Shambles, Keith Eveland, Barry Sides, Couch Messiahs, Bohemian Sunshine, Driving November, Shiloh, Rob Peck & The Matanzas AllStars, and Thomas Allain, with MC Gregg Jones and additional artists to be announced. What began as a local tribute at Heartwood Soundstage grew into a tradition that draws thousands of fans from around the world to share in the camaraderie and the songs that defined the Heartbreakers and Tom’s enduring legacy. All ages are welcome, kids 18 and under are free, and lawn chairs are permitted as space allows. Funded in part by Visit Gainesville, Alachua County.

The third annual Children’s Miracle Network Dash & Bash supports pediatric trauma services at UF Health with a campus 5K at the University of Florida that passes UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital and is followed by a post-race bash. Partners and community members will cheer along the route at dedicated sections to keep spirits high. The bash features entertainment, hands-on activities, and participation from community safety partners. In collaboration with the Pediatric Trauma Injury Prevention & Outreach team, the celebration also highlights National Trauma Awareness Month. The day includes on-site registration, pre-race remarks, the 5K start, an awards ceremony, raffle announcements, and a wrap-up for the bash.

The City of Lake City hosts the Growers and Makers Market on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. This community-focused market offers a welcoming place to shop directly from local growers and makers. Visitors can explore handmade arts and crafts, find farm fresh goods, and enjoy a variety of options from food trucks.

Florida Gators Football takes on the Vanderbilt Commodores at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Stadium gates open an hour and a half before kickoff. Express Entry registration is available for attendees. Tickets will be delivered on a scheduled release date, and they will not be available to view or manage until they are issued.

Farm Share, a Florida nonprofit food bank dedicated to feeding communities and preventing food waste, is hosting a free food distribution at Lake City Police Department - Lcflapd. Everyone is welcome, with no income or household size requirements. Distribution is first come, first served and continues until supplies run out.

Experience a bustling marketplace that celebrates the creativity and flavors of Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. The event features more than 150 vendors across multiple buildings, with a new building added for 2026, showcasing artisanal pottery, woodworking, glasswork, textiles, home decor, jewelry, and other locally made pieces. Enjoy live music and tented outdoor spaces, plus food trucks on both days offering baked treats, fudge, nuts, specialty foods, beverages, and local wines. Admission includes a bracelet valid for the entire weekend. Cash is recommended for easier purchases, and only service dogs are permitted inside the buildings.

Whiskey Outlaws brings a live band performance to Halpatter Brewing Company.

A pet vaccine clinic will operate in the parking area at Pine Grove Apartments, a senior housing complex. Services are open to senior and military pet owners, as well as those facing financial limitations, with verification requested through a photo ID and, when applicable, documentation from programs such as SSI, SSDI, or Food Stamps. Vaccines are offered for $22 and nail trims for $15. Additional options include exams, microchipping, heartworm testing, and flea and heartworm prevention.

Celebrate the season at a lively kids dance party featuring DJ E-Lo spinning upbeat tunes for dancing and sing-alongs. There is no admission fee and all are welcome. Food trucks will be on site with snacks and meals available for purchase.

Celebrate the holiday season with a spirited party built around classic rock and blues. Festive energy and good cheer set the tone for a fun, music-filled gathering.