Family events in Columbia County, FL

See Ichetucknee Springs from a fresh angle on a guided clear kayak outing along the Ichetucknee River. A knowledgeable guide will help you spot wildlife and share insights about the history and ecology of this celebrated Florida spring system. Begin at the South Entrance and take the provided shuttle to the North Canoe Launch. Paddles and life vests are included, and the experience is suitable for beginners. The rate is $65 per person. Clear kayaks seat up to two adults with a combined weight limit of 425 pounds. Park entry is separate at $6 per vehicle for up to eight people. Spaces often book quickly.

Help your little one discover the fun of soccer through an eight-week program with age-based sessions. Options are available for ages 18 months to 3 years, 2 to 4 years, and 3 to 5 years. The program fee is $135. For more information, contact Toddler Time at 352-425-0385.

Canvas Church presents the fourth annual Backpacks & Blessings at Promised Land Family Ministries. This family-friendly back-to-school gathering on the farm offers free backpacks, school supplies, and hot dogs. One backpack is available per student in Pre-K through 12th grade while supplies last, and students must be present to receive one. Additional details may be shared as the event nears. For donations or sponsorship inquiries, contact Rebecca Hall at (386) 515-5903 or RHall@PromisedLandFM.org.

Alachua County Animal Resources hosts a large summer adoption event focused on second chances for shelter pets. Adoption fees are waived for every animal, and each new pet parent receives a starter goodie bag to help their companion settle in. Visitors can meet dogs ready for adventure and cats hoping for a cozy home. The day highlights how community involvement, whether through adoption, volunteering, spreading the word, or simply stopping by to meet the animals, increases visibility and helps more pets find loving homes.

Get ready for the new school year with a hair tinsel pop-up at 386 Market featuring young entrepreneur Addison Waldron. Guests can add sparkle to their back-to-school look while helping Addison work toward the goal of saving for a first car. Friends can come together to get styled for the first week of classes and show support for a young dream chaser. Even a small touch of shimmer can make a meaningful difference.

Celebrating two decades of sweet tradition, this 20th annual ice cream social and back to school bash offers an afternoon of treats, games, and family fun. Enjoy ice cream with more than 20 toppings in a safe, family-friendly setting, alongside efforts to prepare kids for the upcoming school year with backpacks and essential school supplies. Special guest Julien “King” Smith, founder of Born Elite from Gulfport, Mississippi and a White Springs native, will share messages about leadership, perseverance, and chasing dreams. The festivities bring community and education together in White Springs, Hamilton County, Florida, blending food, fun, and smiles. A lighthearted note for parents... let kids choose their own ice cream toppings unless there is an allergy.

This annual charity basketball tournament brings local first responders to the court in support of the CHS Tigers Basketball programs. Teams compete for bragging rights for the next year in a spirited, family friendly showcase. Admission is $5, payable in cash or via Cash App, and children younger than five are admitted free. Concessions will be available for cash purchase. Expect an afternoon centered on community, friendly rivalry, and plenty of hoops.

SFVC brings low-cost veterinary care to pets in the Ellisville and Providence area, with services that include vaccinations, microchipping, heartworm testing, flea and heartworm preventatives, and nail trims. All pet owners are welcome, and walk-ins are accepted. Discounts are available for military personnel and seniors. Pre-registration is offered to reserve a spot.

LyriCo Conservatory presents an Open House featuring complimentary mini-classes in music, dance, acting, and theater, followed by a student showcase performance. Guests can meet the instructors, tour the conservatory, explore fall class options for their student, and enjoy prizes on offer. Open to families at no cost.

The summer series from No Sitter Necessary wraps up with a high-energy family dance battle at The Woods in Lake City, FL, outdoors. Serving as the third and final show of the season, it doubles as a back-to-school celebration with one dance floor shared by children and parents. A live DJ sets the soundtrack while an MC keeps the crowd energized, and food and drinks are available. Beyond the music, there is pickleball, roller skating, water slides, and family movies. No babysitter is needed, families dance together under the open sky. Tickets start at $27.10.

Set out on a guided paddle along the Ichetucknee River, a clear spring-fed waterway celebrated for its natural beauty. An experienced guide leads the route with opportunities to spot wildlife and discover quiet corners of the river for an authentic Florida nature experience. Kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are available. A shuttle, paddles, and a life vest are included, and the tour is suitable for beginners. Rates start at $55. Park admission is not included, and there is a $6 vehicle entry fee for up to eight guests.

Enjoy a relaxed Beyblade gathering that welcomes newcomers and experienced players alike. Attendees can bring their own Beyblades and any arenas they prefer, then match up for informal battles with fellow players. Participants set up their own play and handle judging themselves, keeping the focus on friendly competition and trading with others. PunkOuter Games offers a comfortable gaming space with refreshments and a wide selection that ranges from single cards to RPGs and miniatures, creating an inviting place to play at no cost.

Youth Competitive Fundamentals Archery is happening at Easton Newberry Archery Center. Match details, start times, and registration information are to be confirmed with the host club. It is a youth-focused archery event centered on building competitive fundamentals.

Now in its second year, this Community School Readiness Event centers on the theme Breakthrough and focuses on equipping students and celebrating community spirit. Last year, 200 fully stocked backpacks reached Gainesville families through largely personal contributions, with the City of Gainesville and the Fire Department taking part, a moment that showed how neighbors step up for one another. This edition is larger and free, with complimentary backpacks and school supplies for K-12 students, free food and refreshments, live music, bicycle giveaways, engaging experiences and activities, and participation from community vendors and local speakers. The goal is to support 300 to 350 families so every child leaves prepared for day one.